The Ford Explorer is one of the most versatile vehicles on the road. It performs well in 4x4 conditions and can take you anywhere from the ski resort to a snowy backcountry trailhead. The Explorer is narrower than most SUVs, making it easier to drive and park in the city as well. In 1999, the Explorer was rated for 18mpg city and 23mpg highway; this is impressive given the age of the vehicle.

This rare V8 Ford Explorer from 1996 is one of the few vehicles that I've used in my mail route that can actually get me through deep snow (great wheel clearance, all-wheel drive). I'm kind of glad that my six-cylinder Chevy Astrovan blew it's engine just before winter, so that I was forced to switch to my Ford (which I was hoping to NOT use for work because of it's low mileage).