The 2025 Ford Explorer continues to serve as a reliable suburban family SUV, offering minor visual enhancements and updated technology to keep it competitive. Notably, Ford has streamlined the trim lineup, discontinuing the Base, Limited, King Ranch, and Timberline models.
The Explorer retains its two engine options: a turbocharged four-cylinder and a twin-turbo V-6, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can still choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
What’s New for 2025?
The 2025 Explorer lineup now includes four trims: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. Exterior updates include a refreshed front fascia with redesigned grille, headlights, and air inlets, as well as new taillights at the rear.
Platinum, ST, and ST-Line trims offer a new black-painted roof option, and for the first time, buyers can add Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving technology. Interior updates focus on enhancing comfort and materials, with soft-touch surfaces added to the center console, door panels, and dashboard. A redesigned dashboard also creates additional space for front passengers.
Pricing and Recommendations
The 2025 Ford Explorer starts at $41,450 and can reach $55,855 depending on trim and options:
- Active: $41,450
- ST-Line: $46,210
- Platinum: $53,845
- ST: $55,855
The ST-Line offers the best balance of features and value. It includes sporty styling elements, a 300-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and 20-inch wheels while being $11,000 less expensive than the ST. Buyers can also opt for all-wheel drive ($2,000) and features like BlueCruise and a black-painted roof.
Performance and Powertrains
The 2025 Explorer offers two engine options:
- 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-Four: 300 hp, 310 lb-ft torque
- 3.0L Twin-Turbo V-6 (ST): 400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque
Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available. In testing, the four-cylinder engine delivered adequate performance, reaching 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, while the V-6-powered ST hit 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
Fuel Economy
The Explorer’s fuel efficiency varies based on drivetrain and engine:
- Four-Cylinder RWD: 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway
- Four-Cylinder AWD: 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway
- V-6 RWD: 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway
- V-6 AWD: 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway
Interior and Cargo Space
The Explorer prioritizes functionality with updates for 2025 that include soft-touch materials and new interior color options. The redesigned dashboard enhances passenger space, and accessing the third row is simple thanks to a second-row seat mechanism.
However, the third-row seating is best suited for children or smaller passengers. With the rear seats folded, the Explorer accommodates up to 31 carry-on bags, demonstrating competitive cargo space.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard on all trims is a 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen featuring Ford’s new Digital Experience software. This platform supports Google and Amazon apps, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
When parked, users can stream videos, browse the internet, and play games. The system includes eight USB ports and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system (except on the base Active trim).
Safety and Driver Assistance
Every 2025 Explorer includes a robust suite of standard driver-assistance features:
- Forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance
Ford’s warranty coverage is average:
- Limited Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Ford does not offer complimentary maintenance, unlike some competitors.
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