The Ford Explorer has always been a staple name in the American SUV segment — a trusted nameplate that merges family utility with strong performance. For 2025, Ford has taken a significant leap forward, delivering a completely refreshed version of the Explorer that redefines expectations. The 2025 Explorer boasts modern design enhancements, an upgraded infotainment experience, improved safety tech, and electrified powertrain options. But is it worth the buzz? This review dives into every key aspect that potential buyers are eager to explore.
Design and Exterior Styling
One of the biggest overhauls in the 2025 Ford Explorer is its exterior. Ford has adopted a more sculpted and athletic design language. The front fascia now features a larger grille with dynamic LED headlamps and a full-width LED light bar that adds a modern character. The side profile appears muscular yet refined with defined creases, flush door handles (in higher trims), and optional 21-inch alloy wheels.
The rear has also received thoughtful attention — new LED taillights, a restructured tailgate, and an available hands-free power liftgate make it both stylish and practical. Overall, the 2025 Explorer’s design successfully balances ruggedness with premium appeal, setting it apart in a crowded mid-size SUV segment.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Step inside the 2025 Ford Explorer and you’re welcomed into a tech-savvy and comfort-driven cabin. High-quality materials like soft-touch leather, contrast stitching, and real wood or metal trims enhance the premium experience, especially in the Platinum and ST trims. Seating has been reengineered for comfort with increased bolstering, ventilated and heated seats, and even optional massaging front seats.
Ford has also improved cabin noise insulation, making the ride more refined. The Explorer continues to offer three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably. A new panoramic sunroof, configurable ambient lighting, and enhanced cabin ergonomics make long journeys more enjoyable for both drivers and passengers.
Infotainment and Connectivity Features
The 2025 Explorer introduces Ford’s latest SYNC 5 infotainment system — a major upgrade over the previous generation. It features a 13.2-inch central touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The user interface is smoother, faster, and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto out of the box.
Key connectivity features include:
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- 5G modem for faster Wi-Fi hotspot
- Amazon Alexa built-in voice assistant
- Wireless charging pad
- Rear entertainment screens (optional in higher trims)
Ford has clearly focused on making the Explorer a technology-forward SUV, appealing to modern families and tech enthusiasts alike.
Performance and Powertrain Options
Under the hood, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers multiple powertrain choices, tailored to a variety of driving preferences. The base trims come with a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 engine producing around 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque — plenty of power for everyday use.
For those craving more excitement, the ST model features a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine with 400 horsepower and sport-tuned suspension. A rear-wheel-drive setup is standard, but all-wheel-drive is available across the range.
The big news for 2025 is the introduction of a hybrid model, which combines a 3.3L V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering impressive fuel efficiency without sacrificing power.
Ford Explorer 2025 – Highlights Table
| Feature Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 3.3L Hybrid |
| Max Horsepower | 400 hp (ST trim) |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 7 |
| Infotainment | SYNC 5 with 13.2″ touchscreen, OTA updates |
| Safety | BlueCruise 1.2, Blind Spot Assist, Auto Braking |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,600 lbs (when properly equipped) |
| Drivetrain | RWD standard, AWD optional |
| Trim Levels | Base, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Platinum, ST |
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Ford is raising the bar in safety with the 2025 Explorer. The SUV is packed with the latest version of Ford BlueCruise 1.2, the company’s semi-autonomous driving system. It allows hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways and now includes automatic lane changes and improved adaptive cruise control.
Other safety features include:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping System
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Rear View Camera with Washer
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Parking Assist 2.0 (automated parallel/perpendicular parking)
These features contribute to what Ford hopes will be a top-tier safety rating from both the NHTSA and IIHS.
Boot Space and Practicality
Despite its premium focus, practicality remains a key strength for the Explorer. The 2025 model offers up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat. Even with all seats up, there’s enough room behind the third row for groceries or small luggage.
Additional practicality features include:
- Flat-folding second and third rows
- Power-folding third row in higher trims
- Configurable cargo floor
- Multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin
Pricing Across Trims
Ford has strategically priced the 2025 Explorer to remain competitive while offering good value for each trim level:
- Base – Starting around $38,000
- XLT – From $42,000
- Limited – Around $47,000
- ST-Line – Approx. $49,000
- Platinum – From $55,000
- ST (Performance Model) – Starting at $58,000
These prices may vary slightly by region or based on dealer offers and incentives.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
With electrification becoming a bigger focus, the Explorer Hybrid shines with fuel economy estimates around 27 MPG city / 29 MPG highway, a big improvement over the gas-only variants. The 2.3L EcoBoost variant delivers around 21–26 MPG combined, while the V6-powered ST is slightly lower due to its performance orientation.
Booking and Test Drive
The 2025 Explorer is already available for pre-booking via Ford’s official website and select dealerships across the U.S. Early buyers can customize their trims, colors, and packages online. Test drives will begin from early September 2025 as vehicles begin arriving at showrooms.
Final Verdict – Should You Buy the Ford Explorer 2025?
The Ford Explorer 2025 is more than just a facelift — it’s a statement of intent from Ford to remain a dominant force in the SUV market. With bold new design elements, next-gen technology, electrified powertrains, and enhanced safety, the Explorer is now more competitive than ever. Whether you’re looking for a capable family hauler, a tech-filled commuter, or a performance-oriented SUV like the ST — there’s something here for everyone.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and early reviews. Pricing, features, and specs are subject to change. Please verify all details with your local dealership before making a purchase decision.
