The Ford Explorer is one of the most popular SUVs in its category, and for good reason. It checks all the boxes. It's one of the few vehicles of its size to offer a sporty variant as well as a version with enhanced off-road capabilities. On top of that, it's also the number one choice for emergency services, which says a lot about its capabilities. The Ford Explorer is versatile and can meet the needs of most people.
The American automaker is offering an update for the 2025 Explorer with improvements that have been long overdue. The body has been redesigned in some areas, notably with a new, more imposing grille. The interior is better structured, and the ambient lighting is more attractive than ever. I must say I really like that the American manufacturer's SUV now features a horizontal screen for its infotainment system. Ford will clearly eliminate the frustration of many buyers with this change.
Range and Pricing
Ford has completely redesigned the Explorer lineup for 2025, similar to what was done with the Escape between the 2022 and 2023 models. The XLT and Limited trims have been eliminated, making way for a new entry-level version called Active. This one has a starting price of $52,830. Next is the ST-Line version with a starting price of $58,830. It offers a sportier look and some additional options. Then comes the high-end Platinum version at $62,930. This is significantly more affordable than the $67,320 that was asked for the same version last year. Finally, the performance-oriented ST version sits at the top of the range, starting at $71,430.
Category and Competition
The three-row mid-size SUV category is full of champions, and the Ford Explorer is certainly one of them. The model has built a solid reputation over the years. The American automaker's SUV has everything to please, really, and it's one of the few models that suits practically every situation. In short, all of this is to say that the American automaker's SUV would definitely be in my Top 3 if I were shopping for such a model.
Rivals: Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Durango, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Telluride, Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Toyota Highlander, Volkswagen Atlas
Design and Technology
Ford made a significant update to the Explorer for 2025, and it was about time. I'm not saying I didn't like the previous model's design, but it was time for a refresh. I must say I really like the direction the designers took with a more imposing front end and new, more modern headlights.
Inside, the biggest improvement is a horizontal screen that replaces the awful vertical screen the Explorer had until recently. The dashboard design has also been reworked, and the finish quality is much better this year. I'm also particularly fond of the ambient lighting that the American SUV offers this year.
Performance
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers two mechanical options, starting with the 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive is standard. This engine is standard on all versions except the Explorer ST. This is also why the Platinum version's price has been reduced compared to the 2024 model since the latter used to come standard with a V6 engine. Speaking of which, the Explorer still offers the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. This engine is standard on the ST version and optional on the Platinum version. It produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Like the 4-cylinder engine, the 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard here. The American automaker's SUV has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, regardless of the engine you choose. This is what gives it a significant advantage over many of its competitors.
Weak Points
The third row is difficult to access. The Timberline version has been removed for 2025.
Strong Points
It's a robust vehicle, enjoyable to drive, and very versatile. The Ford Explorer offers one of the most comprehensive standard equipment lists. The performance of the ST version is impressive.
Signature Element
The Ford Explorer is the benchmark in the mid-size, three-row SUV segment, nothing less.
Final Word
Few vehicles can replace a car, a minivan, and a truck all at once, but that's exactly what the 2025 Ford Explorer offers. The American automaker's SUV is very versatile and can meet the needs of most people, which certainly explains its great popularity.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
