The 1999 Ford Explorer had a curvier, bulkier look than the previous years' models. An exterior redesign gave the body new heft and gravitas; the same sense of safety and solidity was reflected in some interior innovations, like front side airbags. Larger bumpers and the new Reverse Sensing System (which beeped when the SUV got too close to another vehicle or object) also highlighted Ford's emphasis on safety and security.

Trim choices for the '99 Ford Explorer included Sport, XL, XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. Four-wheel drive was available at all trim levels, and all-wheel drive was available in the XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited trims. The Sport trim offered only a two-door bodystyle; the other trims were all four-door models.

There were plenty of choices under the hood, as well. Buyers of the 1999 Explorer had their pick of three engines: a 5.0 liter V-8 with a 215-horsepower output, a 4.0 liter single overhead cam V-6 that delivered 205 horsepower, or a 4.0 liter V-6 that putted along at 160 horses.

The '99 Explorer continued to lead the sport-utility vehicle market; buyers weren't put off a bit by its size or by its less-than-impressive fuel efficiency (14-18 mpg city, 19-23 highway, depending on model). Big, safe vehicles were what the buying public was looking for, and that's what Ford delivered with the Explorer.