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Check out our comprehensive review of the 2025 Ford Explorer for details on the cabin, technology, amenities, and safety of this second-generation crossover.
2025 Ford Explorer – media.ford.com | Shop 2025 Ford Explorer on Carsforsale.com
What’s New for the 2025 Ford Explorer?
Back in the day, when the Explorer basically started the modern American SUV movement, there wasn’t much competition. Things have changed on that front these days, so Ford has refreshed the 3-row Explorer for 2025 with a new front-end design and a more upscale cabin with added soft-touch surfaces.
The automaker’s BlueCruise hands-free driving tech is now available across the 2025 Explorer lineup, a lineup that has been trimmed to just 4 models. The infotainment system has been rebranded as the Ford Digital Experience with a focus on Google voice control as part of a “new integrated native experience”.
Carsforsale.com Score
8.25/10
Powertrain
Score
8.25/10
Interior
Score
8.5/10
Technology
Score
8.5/10
Value
Score
8/10
The Breakdown
Powerful engine choices
Brawny good looks
Big infotainment interface
Middling fuel economy
Light on second-row legroom
BlueCruise is expensive
A good-looking SUV with serious power in ST guise
2025 Ford Explorer Specs
- 300 horsepower from base engine
- 310 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 4 available trims
- 16.3 cu-ft of cargo capacity
- 85.3 cu-ft of cargo capacity with seats down
- Standard trailer sway control
- 14-speaker B&O audio system
- 2024 IIHS Top Safety Picks+
- 5 years of powertrain coverage
2025 Ford Explorer Powertrain 8.25/10
In base setup, the 2025 Ford Explorer comes with a 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 making 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Standard on ST models and optional on the Explorer Platinum – for about $4,600 – is a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 turned up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Regardless of engine choice, a 10-speed automatic sends power to the rear wheels. All-wheel drive can be added for $2,000 to any model. Also common across the 2025 Explorer lineup is a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with a Class III trailer hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control all standard content.
Fuel economy comes in at 24 mpg combined for the four-cylinder Explorer with RWD. Adding AWD drops that figure by one. Though V6-equipped Explorers can go 0-60 mph in 5 seconds flat according to Car and Driver, they suffer at the gas pumps with RWD models earning 21 mpg combined, or 20 when fitted with AWD.
2025 Ford Explorer Interior 8.5/10
Three rows come standard in the 2025 Explorer with room for 7 on lower-tier models or 6 on the Platinum with its second-row captain’s thrones. Part of this year’s overhaul includes the addition of softer touch surfaces and a dashboard that has been moved toward the windshield to improve front-row space.
Second-row legroom is on the small side at 39 inches, which is on par with the Dodge Durango but 3 inches short against competitors like the Kia Telluride. Overall cargo space measures 86 cubic feet and on Platinum models, accessing all that space is made easier with power-folding third-row seats.
As for creature comforts, the list of standard amenities on the 2025 Explorer is long. It includes power-adjustable and heated front seats, triple-zone automatic climate control, and a heated steering wheel. ST-Line trim adds acoustic laminated front door glass and Platinum Explorers feature quilted leather in Mojave Dusk or Salt Crystal Gray colors.
2025 Ford Explorer Technology Features 8.5/10
Every 2025 Ford Explorer comes with a fully digital 12.3” instrument panel and a 13.2” central touchscreen. Google Built-In is standard as part of the new Ford Digital Experience that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Bang & Olufsen offers 12- and 14-speaker audio systems on upper-level models.
Ford stacks the new Explorer with standard driver aids including forward collision mitigation, a lane-keeping system, and adaptive cruise control. ST-Line trim and above comes with a 90-day BlueCruise trial, but it’ll cost owners $700/year after that term. Though the 2025 models have not yet been tested, the 2024 Explorer earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.
2025 Ford Explorer Trims & Pricing
Active – $41,350
The entry-level Explorer Active comes with 18” wheels, a power-operated liftgate, and full LED exterior lighting. These models also feature 6 USB ports, ActiveX upholstery, a 5G Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 13.2” central display with wireless smartphone integration.
ST-Line – $46,110
The sporty 2025 Explorer, ST-Line trim, comes with 20” rims, darkened exterior trim, and red stitching to dress up the cabin. These models also boast heated rear outboard seats, a 12-speaker audio system, and a surround-view monitor.
Platinum – $53,250
In Platinum trim, the new Explorer sports adaptive headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and climatized front seats with massaging back rests. These lux-forward models also have a twin-panel moonroof, a wireless phone charging pad, and the option for “Premium Sanctuary Leather”.
ST – $57,100
Along with the 400-horse V6, Explorer ST’s come with 21” wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, an upgraded braking system, and quad exhaust outlets. A visit to the Ford Performance ST SUV Experience Driving School is also part of the deal.
2025 Ford Explorer Overall Value 8/10
Unless you insist on the high-performance ST model – which isn’t a bad idea – the 2025 Explorer Active is a solid choice. At around $41,000, it undercuts Explorer alternatives like the Toyota Grand Highlander by thousands but comes with all the latest tech, heated front seats, and a raft of advanced driver aids.
That said, Toyota includes 2 years of complimentary maintenance, while Ford includes exactly none as part of its industry-average 3-year basic and 5-year powertrain warranty. Before you hit the dealership, however, be sure to review the latest new car incentives here.
Carsforsale.com Overall Score 8.25/10
2025 Ford Explorer – media.ford.com | Shop 2025 Ford Explorer on Carsforsale.com
The 2025 Ford Explorer has a lot going for it. There are the premium good looks that come with a rear-wheel drive platform, not to mention the more engaging handling that results from this configuration. Plus, for those with a need for speed, the Explorer ST is a legitimate performance SUV.
The 2025 mid-cycle refresh adds a load of standard modern tech and improves the cabin styling. Unfortunately, the hybrid model is long gone, and the Explorer is a thirsty SUV. Aside from that and the expense of BlueCruise, this latest Explorer looks like another solid addition to a long line of Ford SUVs.
FAQ’s About the 2025 Ford Explorer
How much can a Ford Explorer tow?
All 2025 Explorers can tow up to 5,000 pounds, regardless of engine.
Where are Ford Explorers made?
The Explorer is built in Chicago and has been since 2010.
Does the Ford Explorer have a third row?
Yes, all new Explorers come with a third-row, 2-person bench seat.
