The Ford Explorer II 4.9 XL, produced from 1999 to 2003, represented a significant iteration of Ford’s popular SUV, positioned as a larger, body-on-frame alternative to the increasingly car-based crossover SUVs emerging at the time. This variant, equipped with the 4.9-liter V8 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground within the Explorer II lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was primarily marketed towards American families and those needing a robust vehicle for towing and light off-road use. The Explorer II, internally designated as the U series, aimed to recapture the traditional SUV experience, emphasizing durability and space over fuel efficiency and nimble handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Generation | Explorer II |
| Type (Engine) | 4.9 XL (5 dr) (213 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp (107 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm (191 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 213 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 3500 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4942 cm3 (301.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm (4 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.2 mm (3 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.9 l (15.74 US qt | 13.11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1990 kg (4387.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1205 l (42.55 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2310 l (81.58 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 4790 mm (188.58 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2830 mm (111.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Explorer II 4.9 XL is the 4.9-liter (301 cubic inch) Windsor V8 engine. This engine, a descendant of Ford’s long-running small-block V8 family, featured a cast-iron block and cylinder heads, and a two-valve-per-cylinder configuration. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The 4.9L engine was known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its longevity. The engine produced 213 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 280 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 4R70W), chosen for its durability and suitability for towing. This transmission featured electronic control for smoother shifting and improved fuel economy compared to earlier iterations. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road capability, though it wasn’t known for particularly quick acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Explorer II 4.9 XL, with its V8 engine and automatic transmission, offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.4 seconds. However, it wasn’t a particularly sporty vehicle. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish during quick acceleration or when downshifting. The 4.9L V8 delivered ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing trailers or navigating challenging terrain. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional SUV feel, but also meant that it lacked the all-weather capability of four-wheel-drive models. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps reasonably well, but the body-on-frame construction resulted in a noticeable amount of body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.9 XL trim level represented the base model of the Explorer II with the V8 engine. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM stereo, cloth upholstery, and power windows and locks. Optional extras included a CD player, upgraded sound system, leather upholstery, power seats, and a sunroof. The interior was functional and durable, but lacked the refinement of some competing SUVs. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls. The XL trim focused on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Explorer II utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension featured coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs, a design choice prioritizing load-carrying capacity. Brakes were disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The rear leaf spring suspension, while capable, could contribute to a somewhat harsh ride quality when unladen. The steering system was a hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup, offering reasonable steering feel and responsiveness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Explorer II 4.9 XL received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, powerful V8 engine, and towing capacity, it was criticized for its outdated design, poor fuel economy, and somewhat cumbersome handling. Compared to the 4.0-liter V6 Explorer II models, the 4.9 XL offered significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. The V6 models were generally considered a better choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and everyday driving. Compared to newer, car-based SUVs, the Explorer II felt large and unwieldy. However, its body-on-frame construction and V8 engine appealed to buyers seeking a traditional SUV experience.
Legacy
The Ford Explorer II 4.9 XL, while not a sales leader, remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a durable and capable SUV. The 4.9-liter Windsor V8 engine is known for its reliability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. However, age and mileage can lead to common issues such as oil leaks and worn-out suspension components. Today, well-maintained examples of the Explorer II 4.9 XL can be found on the used car market at affordable prices, making them an attractive option for those seeking a classic American SUV. Its robust construction and readily available parts ensure that it will continue to be a viable transportation option for years to come.
