I am considering an explorer. I have a F150 now but it is tight for a family of 4. I am thinking about an explorer but I want one with the 4.6 V8. I pull a 2 place sled trailer and I am wondering if the 4.0 SOHC would be as good as the V8 or should I stick with the V8. What kind fo milage do you guys get with the V8? Also what year is the best to buy for this engine combination. I believe the 4.6 was offered starting in 2002 is this correct? Let me know your thoughts as to what you would buy if you had to do it all over again.
What year to buy
Jun 21, 2005
2 Replies
The '02 Explorer is the first year with independent rear suspension, so I would get an '02 or later (which I did, and I'm very happy about). It rides great.
If you're going to be towing then you should absolutely get one with the "tow package" installed. It upgrades the standard Class II hitch to a Class III/IV hitch (with 7 pin electrical connector) and a 3.73:1 rear end. I don't recall what the specs are for the V6 or V8's towing capacity. I think you can find it online.
The V6 is enough power, for me, and I get lousy mileage (maybe 18mpg average). The V8 Explorer would really suck (literally). YMMV.
Bob
Overall average mileage for my '05 V8 is about 17.5, goes as high as
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