The Ford Explorer debuted for the 1991 model year as the successor to the two-door Ford Bronco II.
Ford positioned the Explorer as a larger, more family-oriented sport utility vehicle. It was offered in two-door and four-door body styles, giving buyers more passenger and cargo space than the Bronco II. The first-generation Explorer shared its basic platform with the Ford Ranger pickup.
The Explorer helped popularize four-door SUVs in North America during the 1990s. Early versions used a 4.0-liter V6 engine and were available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The model became one of Ford’s most important light-truck nameplates.
The Explorer is distinct from the full-size Ford Expedition, which arrived later for the 1997 model year. It is also separate from the compact Ford Escape, introduced for 2001.