 Im a huge Ford fan; however Ford didnt get it right with the Explorer. Take for example my 2007 F-150, I love it. The Explorer isnt up to par with the European or Japanese SUVs as far as fit and finish and probably reliability. With 40K M to date, the follow have been replaced: gear shifter, heater valve, alternator, & Nav system fixed. The vehicle has lots of interior plastic too. The ride is harsh for 4 wheel independent suspension. Visibility is poor.  There are big side blind spots and with the 3rd row head rests up, its poor out the back too. The trans off the line hesitates/sluggish (been reflashed). Steering at slow speed is heavy.  Im not a big fan of the interior door handles.