Ford EXPLORER
2,104 registered in New Zealand · 1972–2015 · 91% from United States
The Ford EXPLORER is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 2,104 registered across model years 1972 to 2015. It averages 14.9 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 169 kW. Most are petrol-powered station wagons with a 4.6L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the EXPLORER.
Fuel Types
Ford EXPLORER fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Ford EXPLORER vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Ford EXPLORER fleet age profile: 2002: 320, 2003: 380, 2004: 444, 2005: 442, 2006: 116.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Ford EXPLORER transmissions: 5-GEAR AUTO 59%.
Engine Size
Ford EXPLORER engine sizes: 4.6L 36%, 4.0L 28%, 4.0L 15%, 4.6L 12%, 4.0L 7%.
Imported From
Ford EXPLORER imported from: United States 91%, Japan 4%, United Kingdom 3%, Germany 1%, Australia 1%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Ford EXPLORER vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Ford EXPLORER NZ arrival timeline: 2017: 6, 2018: 1, 2019: 1, 2022: 3, 2023: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Ford EXPLORER.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Ford EXPLORER regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 613, CHRISTCHURCH: 141, HAMILTON: 66, FAR NORTH: 59, WHANGAREI: 59.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Ford EXPLORER are there in New Zealand?
There are 2,104 Ford EXPLORER vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0.1% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1972 to 2015.
How much does it cost to run a Ford EXPLORER?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Ford EXPLORER averages 14.9 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $117 per week or $6,097 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Ford EXPLORER?
The Ford EXPLORER is primarily classified as a station wagon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: utility, motorcycle, hatchback. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Ford EXPLORER cars imported or NZ-new?
91% of Ford EXPLORER vehicles in New Zealand originated from United States. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.