For decades, the Ford Explorer has led the way as one of America’s favorite family three-rows, changing over the years to suit the needs of the modern family. But, since the Explorer’s initial launch, there have been many, many competitors enter the market. So, with the 2025 Ford Explorer refreshed for this year, is this model still standing the test of time? For an in-depth review, check out the video linked at the bottom of this article!

What’s New for 2025?

  • Updated Exterior Design
  • Refreshed interior with new screen
  • Revised trim lineup
  • Powertrain lineup loses the hybrid

Trims and Pricing

MSRP with RWD unless noted

Active: $39,755

ST-Line: $44,515

Platinum: $51,655

ST: $55,505

Prices will rise for 2025, as expected, but most base prices remain in line with competitors. However, expensive options can boost this model well over $60,000.

Air ball and slam dunk

Slam Dunk: Tons of value offered, and it is continued with the 2025 updates

Air Ball: This gas powertrain is more inefficient as compared to the rivals

Design and Features

The Explorer has been sporting a boxy, rugged shape for quite a while now, and Ford has kept with that for the 2025 refresh. The design changes won’t be radical, but you can identify this 2025 model by its larger grille and revised lighting elements. For the sportiest look, the ST-Line and ST models will provide an extra flare. For an in-depth look at the design, please view the video below!

As for the features, here is a breakdown of what will be on the 2025 Ford Explorer:

Feature

Availability

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard LED Reflector Headlamps | Platinum: Adaptive Projectors

Fog Lamps

ST-Line+

Wheels

18-21-in alloys depending on trim

Mirrors

Standard: BSM and heating | Platinum+: Power-folding, Auto-Dimming, Puddle Lamps

Black Roof

Available on Platinum and ST for $4,895

LED Taillights

LED

Exhausts

Exposed only on V6 equipped models

Tow Rating

Up to 5,000lbs

Forward Emergency Braking

Standard Equipment and Improved for 2025

Lane Keep Assist

Auto High Beams

Adaptive Cruise Control

BlueCruise 1.2

Available

 

The interior tech is perhaps the biggest change on the 2025 Explorer!

Interior

Smart Entry

Standard

Remote Start

ST-Line+

Materials

Cloth, Leatherette, Leather, or Sanctuary Leather depending on trim

Seat Adjustment

Standard: Power | Platinum+: 12-way Power with Massage and Memory

Push Button Start

Standard

Gauge Cluster

Standard: 12.3-in full digital display

Head-up Display

Not Offered

Steering Wheel

Standard Leather Wrapped | Heating on ST-Line+ | Power on Platinum+

Wireless Charging

Platinum+

Ambient Lighting

Platinum+

360 Degree Camera

ST-Line+

Three Zone Automatic Climate

Standard

Heated and Ventilated Seats

Heated: Standard | Ventilated: Platinum+

Audio System

Standard: 6-Speakers | ST-Line+: 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen | Platinum+: 14-Speaker Bang & Olufsen

Infotainment

Standard 13.2-in touchscreen display with New Ford Digital Experience | Google Built-in Software | Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto

Moonroof

Optional Panoramic Roof on all trims

 

The rear seats of this model continue to be well appointed, providing much passenger comfort.

Rear Amenities

USBs and Vents

Standard

Heated Rear Seats

ST-Line+

Sunshades

Available on upper trims

Captain’s Chairs

Platinum+

Third Row Air Vents

Standard

Power Tailgate

Standard

 

For in depth details on the 2025 Explorer, watch our full review linked at the bottom of this article. 

Explorer Front

What’s Under the Hood?

The 2025 Ford Explorer will have two familiar powertrains, but will drop any hybrid offerings for now:

Standard: 2.3L Turbo I-4: 300 hp | 310 lb.ft

ST (now optional on Platinum): 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6: 400 hp | 415 lb.ft

All models will have a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD being optional on all models. The 2025 Fuel Economy ratings are as follows:

2.3 RWD: 20/29/24 MPG

2.3 4WD: 20/27/23 MPG

3.0 RWD: 18/25/21 MPG

3.0 4WD: 18/25/21 MPG

We hope you have found this overview of the 2025 Ford Explorer helpful! For a more detailed first look of the Explorer, please watch our video below! What do you think of the new Explorer? Let us know in the comments!