What is my Explorer model?

[JB-1956]

Having only being involved with Explorers for just over 2-weeks and am hoping to collect the second one tomorrow, How do I identify which model Explorer I have?

 

[Ilikemice]

I think the UK models are pretty much the same. They updated the tailgate in 1998ish to a more rounded one and they have different stereo systems. There is a North Face model which is identified by a sticker on the tailgate I believe, and has body colour grille and different wheel arch trim (and possibly different options inside).


Models like the XLT, XL etc. are the US versions

 

[sean99]

North Face would be top of the line, and is the UK version of the Limited. There should be a North Face emblem on the back of the truck.

 

[blueka]

You've got the XL, XLT and the North Face... that's it...


Si

 

[DuncanOfEngland]

The early UK models have the rear number plate offset to the left and the single button key fob. They were registered from early 1997 to mid 1998. Available with pale blue/grey leather or pale blue/grey cloth interior. They were fitted with steel wheels with chrome skins. They had a single height radio/cassette and a dashboard clock. All the UK engines were 4 litre SOHC and automatic transmission. They call this shape the 1st Generation in the USA.

The revised model had the rear number plate in the centre and optional (later to be standard) 5 spoke alloy wheels. The radio was double height with an integrated clock. A legend on the dashboard shows which side the filler cap is located. Available with pale blue/grey leather or cloth, but with a herringbone pattern. These has the 2 button remote control and the PATS anti-theft system. Registered in the UK from mid 1998 to mid 1999. This shape, is called the 2nd generation in the US.

The North Face version was introduced in mid 1999. An upmarket version with more luxurious leather interior and deep pile carpet. The interior plastic was dark grey to match the dark leather or beige to match the beige interior. Fake wood effect flashing on the foor trims and around the radio panel. Electric heated seats with position memory on the driver's seat. The wheel arch trims had an extra curve in them and the front and rear bumpers were colour coded, the front being plastic with round driving lamps. 'The North Face' badges on the fron wings and tailgate.

A revised 'standard' Explorer was introduced in late 1999. This had dark leather interior with seat air bags. Externally, it looked like a North Face model, without the badges.

I'm not sure about the L, XL and XLT variants, because these are all a bit random, with 2cars of identical spec not being called the same. Some even claim to have an Eddie Baur, but I've never seen a UK market one.


Duncan

 

[Stenasev]

The early UK models have the rear number plate offset to the left and the single button key fob. They were registered from early 1997 to mid 1998. They call this shape the 1st Generation in the USA.
Duncan

This would be 2nd generation to the USA surely? If not, what did they call the earlier shape?

SS