Ford Explorer 2005 Ford Explorer
MSRP $27,165 to $38,050
$4,000 mfg rebate, 0-4.9 percent financing
NHTSA: Frontal impact - four stars driver, five stars passenger; Side impact - five stars; *safety concern for head injury; Rollover - three stars 2wd
IIHS: Frontal impact – good, best pick

With significant changes to the 2006 model, car buyers looking for a good mid-sized SUV can score a significant discount on the 2005 Ford Explorer. Granted, you won’t be riding in the latest Explorer on the road, but if the existing model has the features, power and looks that you seek, a $4,000 rebate, plus Employee Discount pricing, makes the 2005 Explorer one of the best deals on dealer lots in August.

A seven-passenger SUV, the 2005 Ford Explorer comes with a standard 4.0-liter V6 engine that makes 210 horsepower or a 4.6-liter V8 engine rated at 239 horsepower. Fuel economy ratings range from 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway to 15/20.