What you'll find here
Year-by-year archive pages with brochure PDFs, core specs, and links to related models.
Explorer55 PDFs
Ford Explorer
Explore 35 years of Ford Explorer heritage through 55 original dealer brochures spanning 1991 to 2025 across 14 global markets. This archive captures every generation and variant: base models, Police Interceptor, Red & Gold editions, and contemporary ST and Timberline versions. Essential for automotive historians, collectors, and researchers seeking authentic period documentation of how this SUV icon evolved through design, technology, and market positioning across decades and continents.
Multi-marketMarket
55PDFs
1991–2025Production
21Model years
Why it matters
Original manufacturer materials document equipment and options exactly as they were offered.
How to navigate
Use search or the year browser below. Each brochure card links to the full PDF download.
Browse by model year
Open a year to view details and download the brochure.
1991 Ford Explorer Brochure
The 1991 Explorer's 4.0-liter V6 engine, rated at 155 horsepower, represented Ford's answer to the Jeep Grand Cherokee's impending arrival. Paired with either a four- or five-speed automatic transmission, it delivered the torque buyers expected from a serious sport-utility vehicle. The engineering prioritized both highway comfort and off-road capability—a balance that would def
1997 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 1997, the Explorer had claimed the North American market as the segment's sales leader, facing stiff competition from the Cherokee and the newly arrived Grand Cherokee. The second-generation design brought a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 215 horsepower, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment included dual airbag
1999 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 1999, the Explorer had become America's best-selling sport-utility vehicle, and Ford knew the formula worked. The second-generation model, now mid-cycle, arrived in showrooms with a refreshed grille and updated interior trim that signalled confidence rather than desperation. Under the hood sat either a 4.0-litre V6 good for 215 horsepower or a 5.0-litre V8, each paired with
2003 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2003, the Explorer dominated the American mid-size SUV segment through sheer distribution reach—available across all fifty states with dealer networks that rivaled sedan franchises. Ford offered the model in both two- and three-row seating configurations, addressing suburban families and fleet buyers alike. The 4.0-litre V6 produced 210 horsepower, enough to justify its foot
2009 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2009, the Explorer faced stiffer competition from the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango, yet Ford's three-row layout and available third-generation 4.6-liter V8 with 260 horsepower kept it competitive in the American midsize SUV wars. The market was shifting toward fuel efficiency, but buyers still valued the Explorer's towing capacity and spacious cabin for family a
2010 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2010, the Explorer faced pressure from a new generation of crossovers that prioritized car-like handling, yet Ford's second-generation body-on-frame design remained the sole three-row offering in US showrooms at its price point. The 4.0-litre V6 produced 210 horsepower, enough to tow 5,600 pounds—capability that crossover rivals simply couldn't match. Buyers choosing the Exp
2011 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2011, the third-generation Explorer faced stiffening competition from the new-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee and the segment's growing preference for unibody crossovers over body-on-frame SUVs. Ford held firm with the traditional truck-based platform that had served the model since 1995, offering buyers who valued genuine off-road capability and towing prowess—up to 5,600 po
2012 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2012, Ford repositioned the Explorer as a three-row crossover for families seeking space without truck-based heft. The redesigned model ditched the traditional body-on-frame construction that had defined it for two decades, embracing a unibody platform that delivered better fuel economy and a lower step-in height. Buyers comparing it to the Honda Pilot and Mazda CX-9 found a
2013 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2013, the fourth-generation Explorer had settled into its role as a three-row family hauler competing squarely against the Highlander and Durango. The lineup offered two powerplants: a 3.5-liter V6 producing 294 horsepower for those wanting traditional muscle, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost good for 240 hp for fuel-conscious buyers. Five trim levels from base through
2014 Ford Explorer Brochure
Under the hood sat a turbocharged 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine producing 240 horsepower alongside a conventional 3.5-litre V6 good for 290 hp, giving buyers a genuine choice between fuel economy and outright power. The platform shared underpinnings with the Taurus, enabling a lower centre of gravity than its predecessor.
2015 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2015, the Explorer faced stiffer competition from the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the emerging luxury crossover segment, yet Ford's three-row layout remained a practical answer for families seeking genuine seven-seat capability. The US market received this generation at a critical moment when SUVs were shifting from truck-based to unibody platforms. Buyers valued the balance it
2016 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2016, the Explorer faced stiff competition from the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota 4Runner, yet Ford's three-row design and available EcoBoost turbocharged engines offered a compelling alternative for families seeking practicality without sacrificing performance. The mid-cycle refresh kept the platform competitive in a rapidly expanding SUV segment.
2017 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2017, Ford repositioned the Explorer as the practical three-row answer to buyers who wanted genuine family hauling without the truck pretense. The refreshed front end announced the update, while the 3.5-litre EcoBoost delivered 290 horsepower—enough to tow 5,600 pounds yet remain attentive at the pump. North American buyers found five trim levels, from base XLT through the t
2018 Ford Explorer Brochure
Ford's 2018 Explorer arrived as a three-row family hauler with real substance. Buyers could configure it as a standard five-seater or opt for the third-row jump seats, making it competitive against the Highlander and Pilot. Engine choices ranged from a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 290 horsepower to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 good for 365 hp. The Platinum
2019 Ford Explorer Brochure
Under the hood of the 2019 Explorer sat a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged engine producing 245 horsepower, fundamentally different from its predecessor's heavier V6 approach. This powertrain choice reflected Ford's broader shift toward efficiency without sacrificing the towing capacity—up to 5,600 pounds—that buyers in the three-row segment still demanded.
2020 Ford Explorer Brochure
The 2020 Explorer arrived with three distinct powertrains spanning the lineup: a 2.3-litre EcoBoost good for 300 horsepower, a plug-in hybrid variant delivering 460 combined horses, and the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo producing 365 hp. Three-row seating remained the calling card, though buyers could opt for five-seat configurations in lower trims. Hybrid and standard gas vers
2021 Ford Explorer Brochure
The 2021 Explorer's 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivered 400 horsepower across the lineup, a significant jump from the previous generation's 365 hp. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard intelligent four-wheel drive, the engine proved responsive enough to challenge midsize luxury rivals while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for the class.
2022 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2022, Ford offered the Explorer across China, South Korea, and Mexico with distinct regional specifications. The North American markets received the turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 producing 400 horsepower, while Asian distributors emphasized the more efficient 2.3-litre EcoBoost variant. Mexican buyers could configure the three-row SUV with either gasoline engine, reflecting Ford
2023 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2023, the Explorer faced intensifying competition from the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Kia Sorento, yet Ford's third-row SUV held its ground with a refreshed exterior and the potent 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 delivering 400 horsepower. North American buyers could configure the mid-size hauler across five trim levels, from the base model to the upscale Platinum variant, each promisi
2024 Ford Explorer Brochure
By 2024, Ford repositioned the Explorer as a three-row family hauler competing squarely against the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The mid-cycle refresh brought a revised front end and updated infotainment, while the 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine—now producing 300 horsepower—remained the backbone of the lineup. North American buyers could choose from five trim levels across mul
2025 Ford Explorer Brochure
The 2025 Explorer lineup expanded to include four distinct body configurations: the standard five-seat model, the extended seven-seat version, the sportier ST variant, and the range-topping Platinum trim. Under the hood sat either a 3.0-litre EcoBoost producing 400 horsepower or a more efficient 2.3-litre turbocharged engine rated at 300 hp. Mexican buyers could configure their
2025 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Brochure
The 2025 Police Interceptor arrived with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost producing 400 horsepower as the primary choice, facing competition from Dodge Durango Pursuit models and Chevrolet Tahoe PPV configurations. Ford's hybrid variant offered operational cost savings that agencies increasingly demanded, while the 5.0-liter V8 remained available for departments requiring sustained high-sp
2024 Ford Explorer Red & Gold Brochure
Competing in a segment dominated by established Japanese rivals and the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford's 2024 Red & Gold Explorer offered buyers a distinctive visual alternative. The special edition's colour treatment set it apart from conventional SUV offerings, appealing to those seeking personality without sacrificing three-row practicality.
2020 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
For the 2020 model year, Ford positioned the Explorer ST squarely against the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango in North American showrooms. The 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 delivered genuine performance credentials in a segment where most competitors relied on naturally aspirated engines. Mexican buyers received this configuration with domestic-market warranty and dealer s
2021 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
By 2021, the Explorer ST faced stiff competition from the Chevrolet Tahoe and the newly redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee in the three-row SUV segment. Ford's answer was a turbocharged 3.0-litre EcoBoost delivering 400 horsepower, positioning the ST as the performance-focused choice against rivals emphasizing comfort or off-road prowess. Mexican buyers received this variant as For
2022 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
By 2022, Ford's three-row SUV lineup needed a statement piece. The Explorer ST delivered it with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine producing 400 horsepower, positioning itself as the performance variant for buyers who refused to choose between family capacity and driving engagement. Magnetic dampers and a sport-tuned suspension made the difference tangible.
2023 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
The 2023 Explorer ST lineup offered buyers three distinct configurations: the five-seat ST, the three-row ST with seating for up to seven, and the performance-focused ST-Line variant. Each carried the turbocharged 3.0-litre EcoBoost good for 400 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Standard features included adaptive suspension, all-wheel drive, and a spor
2024 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
The 2024 ST arrived with a 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower, paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission that delivered responsive highway performance. Beneath the surface lay an independent rear suspension tuned for both comfort and handling precision. This powertrain configuration positioned the Explorer ST against mid-size rivals seeking three-row capability wi
2025 Ford Explorer ST Brochure
The 2025 ST variant reaches Mexico as Ford's answer to buyers seeking genuine performance in the midsize SUV segment. With 400 horsepower from the turbocharged 3.0-litre EcoBoost, it competes directly against the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chevrolet Tahoe while maintaining the practicality Mexican families demanded.
2023 Ford Explorer Timberline Brochure
By 2023, Ford's Timberline occupied a distinct space between luxury SUV and serious adventure platform. Buyers could configure the three-row layout with seating for up to seven, choosing between the standard 2.3-litre EcoBoost or the more potent 3.0-litre twin-turbo unit good for 400 horsepower. Premium cloth, terrain-response systems, and an integrated roof rack spoke to both
2024 Ford Explorer Timberline Brochure
As Ford refined its three-row SUV lineup for 2024, the Timberline emerged as the rugged answer for buyers seeking genuine all-terrain capability without sacrificing modern comfort. The variant arrived with standard four-wheel drive, skid plates, and all-terrain tires—equipment that signaled serious intent beyond pavement. Chinese markets received this configuration with localiz
Frequently asked questions
How many documents are in the Explorer archive?
The Explorer archive contains 55 original documents spanning brochures, dealer catalogs, press kits, and factory literature. This collection captures the model's evolution from its 1991 debut through 2025, offering a comprehensive visual and textual record of how Ford positioned and marketed this vehicle across different periods and markets.
What years does the Explorer archive cover?
Our collection spans 1991 to 2025, covering the full lifecycle of the Explorer from its original launch. While we have strong representation across most decades, some individual years may have gaps depending on document availability. We continuously add newly discovered materials to fill these periods.
Can I use these documents for restoration or research?
Yes. Original brochures and factory literature are invaluable for restoration work, providing authentic specifications, color options, and trim details from specific model years. Researchers and enthusiasts use these documents to verify originality, understand period-correct features, and guide accurate restorations back to factory specifications.
Are there regional or market-specific variants in this archive?
The collection includes 14 different market variants, reflecting how Ford adapted the Explorer for different regions. These regional versions show variations in trim levels, equipment, and marketing approaches across different countries and sales territories during the model's production run.
How does this archive page differ from the Explorer catalog page?
This archive page focuses on the documents themselves—their availability, years covered, and research value. The catalog page details the car's specifications and features. Think of archive as the source material collection, while catalog is about the vehicle's technical and design information extracted from those sources.
What Explorer generations are represented in the archive?
The collection includes the standard Explorer alongside specialized variants: Explorer Police Interceptor, Explorer Red & Gold, Explorer ST, and Explorer Timberline. Each variant has its own marketing materials, showing how Ford developed performance and lifestyle editions throughout the model's history.
How often is the Explorer archive updated with new documents?
We continuously acquire and digitize newly discovered original materials. Updates depend on document availability and authentication. Subscribers can check back regularly or enable notifications to see when new Explorer literature is added to the collection.