The Bronco II said goodbye as the new Ford Explorer arrived in the brands line up of strong and durable SUVs. It quickly got a warm welcome from the consumers in 1991, and it outsold the already-famous SUVs from Jeep and Chevrolet.

The Ford Explorer sold 300,000 units annually for its first-generation model and this increased by 100,000 units annually for its second-generation model, making it the best-selling Ford SUV at that time.

Ford has released six generations of greatness with the Explorer. From day one, the Ford Explorer captured the hearts of the public, and up to this day, it is one of the most well-loved SUVs in the market. It has so many variants, versions and special editions, which people can choose from their liking.

Scroll along to witness how this vehicle transformed intoone worth celebrating. Here are 15 photos capturing the evolution of the Ford Explorer.

The first generation of the Ford Explorer outshines its predecessor, Bronco II, by having a 4 liter Cologne OHC V6 engine, which produces 155 to 160 horsepower, connected to a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox. It was available in either two or four-door trim, and with four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive system.

The 1993 Ford Explorer Sport was first planned to be trim level only but made its way to have its own model series. It has a wheelbase 10 inches shorter than the regular Ford Explorer, making it easier to maneuver off-road. Unfortunately, its model line was discontinued in 2003.

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Ford introduced the second generation of the Ford Explorer in 1995. It still runs the same V6 engine, on the other hand, it received essential improvements from its previous version, including rounded body edges for added aerodynamics and more circular headlights and taillights. Its grille had a new look as well.

The 2002 Ford Explorer was the first of the third-generation Ford Explorer. For the first time, this model was completely redesigned, and not based on the Ford Ranger. It featured more interior amenities and advanced ergonomics that could now accommodate two more passengers, making it a seven-passenger midsize SUV.

The Ford Explorer Sport Trac had two generations, and the first one was launched in 1999 as the brands first midsize pickup truck, between the F-150 and the Ranger. The second edition was released in 2006 and was based on third-generation Explorer. Its base engine is a 210-horsepower V6.

Ford created an entirely new automotive genre with the Sport Trac Adrenalin. This vehicle was released in 2007 as the world's first high-performance sport-utility truck. It amalgamates of performance and functionality and can drive with lightning speed. It makes use of a 4.6 liter supercharged Modular V8 engine, which releases 390 horsepower.

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The Ford Explorer America concept made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, as a midsize utility vehicle on a unibody platform that gives it a unique silhouette. This vehicle is ideal for everyday chores since it has sliding doors. It is designed as a six-seater.

2011 was the year for the fifth generation Ford Explorer. Based on the Ford Taurus, this SUV has a unibody chassis and a different engine position. The new model was loaded with a fresh engine, a 3.5-liter V6, which produces a stunning 290 horsepower, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2013 Ford Explorer Sport was available for a base price of $41,545 and promised a higher level of energy compared to the regular Explorer. It is the only model fitted with a 365-horsepower engine with aluminum block and heads, and bigger brakes. This trim level flaunts a darker exterior approach.

Ford once again introduced another generation of the famous Explorer in 2016. This new vehicle was announced at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, giving a life extension for the long line up of Explorers. It boasts a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a brand-new infotainment display that gives the interior an innovative style.

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The market was celebrating the arrival of this $21,668 midsize SUV. The 2018 Ford Explorer received a new grille, enhanced fog lights, and revised headlights. It is available with all-wheel-drive or front-wheel-drive, with a 2.3-liter or 2-liter EcoBoost engine, respectively. It can compete head-to-head with SUVs such as the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.

The 2020 Ford Explorer XLT is one of the primary trim levels of the Explorer, along with Limited, ST and Platinum. The XLT trim differs with a standard powertrain that includes a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine, linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission that has a unique Selectshift feature.

The 1010 model year of the Ford Explorer is sold at a starting price of $38,981, and it delivers a more excellent turbocharged power. This sixth-gen Explorer has a zero to 60 miles per hour acceleration time of 6.8 seconds. It is also revised on the inside, with an expanded cabin.

The 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utility does not only look heavy-duty, but it also performs better than the regular Explorer. This vehicle offers more than what you can think of. It boasts a police-spec suspension and tires. As an extreme officer protector, it passed the 75 miles per hour rear-impact crash test.

The rear-wheel-drive 2020 Ford Explorer Limited has an added touch of class, with leather upholstery, and heated seated. Its steering wheel is also heated. Few more upgrades include a wireless device charging, and 12-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. This trim also receives power-adjusting mirrors and an automatic liftgate.

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Chris is a proficient reader and writer. He has written for many publications including TheRichest, TheClever, TheQuiz, and ListVerse. Cars are his passion.

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15 Photos Capturing The Ford Explorer's Evolution Through The Years - HotCars

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