2025 Ford Explorer Review: Specs, Performance, Interior & Value

Overview: What the 2025 Ford Explorer Is

The 2025 Ford Explorer continues its role as one of the most recognizable three-row midsize SUVs on the market. Positioned between compact crossovers and full-size family haulers, the Explorer balances passenger capacity, performance capability, and daily usability. For 2025, Ford refines the formula with updated technology, streamlined trims, and continued emphasis on performance-oriented variants like the ST, while keeping family practicality at the core of the model.

Vehicle Category and Segment

The Ford Explorer belongs to the midsize SUV segment with three-row seating. It rides on a rear-wheel-drive-based platform, which distinguishes it from many front-wheel-drive competitors and allows stronger towing capability and improved driving dynamics.

Market Positioning and Buyer Profile

The 2025 Explorer targets families who need space for up to seven passengers but still want confident highway performance, available all-wheel drive, and modern technology. Buyers typically cross-shop it against midsize SUVs that prioritize versatility, but the Explorer appeals especially to drivers who value power, towing capability, and a more athletic feel behind the wheel.

Trim Levels and Pricing Structure

Ford offers the 2025 Explorer in several trims designed to cover a wide range of budgets and performance expectations.

Standard Trims and Base Pricing

The lineup begins with the Active trim, which replaces earlier base configurations and focuses on value and practicality. Above it sit the ST-Line and Platinum trims, while the performance-focused ST remains the flagship.

Pricing starts at approximately $40,050 for the Active trim and rises to the mid-$50,000 range for a well-equipped Explorer ST.

AWD and Optional Packages

Rear-wheel drive is standard across most trims, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Optional packages add upgraded wheels, premium interior materials, advanced driver-assistance systems, and enhanced towing equipment, allowing buyers to tailor the Explorer to their specific needs.

Powertrain and Performance Numeric Breakdown

One of the Explorer’s defining strengths is its powertrain diversity and strong output figures.

Engine Options and Output

The standard engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost inline-four producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and delivers confident acceleration for daily driving and highway merging.

Higher trims, including the ST and Platinum, feature a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This setup gives the Explorer performance credentials that stand out in the midsize SUV class.

Driving Dynamics and Capability

With rear-wheel drive architecture and available all-wheel drive, the Explorer feels composed at speed and stable under load. Properly equipped models can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for small trailers, boats, or recreational gear.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Despite its size and power, the 2025 Explorer maintains competitive fuel economy figures.

EPA Fuel Economy Ratings

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine achieves approximately 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. The more powerful 3.0-liter V6 returns around 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined.

Real-World Efficiency

In real-world driving, owners can expect fuel consumption close to EPA estimates, especially during highway cruising. City driving and frequent use of the V6’s performance potential naturally increase fuel usage.

Design and Exterior Features

The Explorer’s exterior design balances rugged SUV proportions with modern detailing.

Exterior Styling Highlights

The 2025 model features updated front and rear styling, LED lighting, and wheel options ranging from 18 to 21 inches depending on trim. Ground clearance remains optimized for light off-road use and winter driving without compromising on-road comfort.

Aerodynamics and Practicality

Subtle aerodynamic refinements help improve highway efficiency and cabin quietness. Roof rails, a power liftgate, and a wide cargo opening enhance everyday usability.

Interior, Comfort, and Technology

Inside, the Explorer focuses on space, connectivity, and ease of use.

Cabin Layout and Materials

Seating is available for six or seven passengers, depending on configuration. Front and second-row legroom remain generous, while the third row is suitable for children or shorter adults on longer trips. Higher trims add leather upholstery and premium trim materials.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A large center touchscreen dominates the dashboard and runs a modern, Google-based infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with multiple USB ports and available premium audio systems.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and a digital instrument cluster are available depending on trim. These features enhance long-distance comfort and daily convenience.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety remains a core focus for the Explorer lineup.

Standard Safety Equipment

Every 2025 Explorer includes multiple airbags and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.

Optional Advanced Safety Features

Higher trims offer additional technologies, including adaptive cruise control with lane centering and enhanced parking assistance systems that use multiple cameras and sensors.

Real-World Usability and Ownership

Beyond specs, the Explorer is designed to handle everyday family life.

Cargo Space and Passenger Comfort

Cargo capacity measures approximately 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding significantly with the rear seats folded. This flexibility allows the Explorer to transition easily between passenger transport and cargo hauling.

Warranty, Reliability, and Common Issues

The 2025 Explorer comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Long-term reliability has improved over earlier generations, though some owners note occasional software-related updates as part of ownership.

Comparison and Internal Context

For buyers deciding between different types of Ford SUVs, it’s worth comparing the Explorer’s family-focused design with more rugged alternatives like the 2025 Ford Bronco, which prioritizes off-road capability over third-row seating and interior space.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engines are available in the 2025 Ford Explorer?
The Explorer offers a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6.

How many passengers can it seat?
The Explorer seats up to seven passengers, depending on configuration.

What is the towing capacity?
When properly equipped, the maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

Is all-wheel drive available?
Yes, all-wheel drive is optional on most trims.

How fuel-efficient is the Explorer?
Fuel economy ranges from about 20–27 mpg depending on engine and driving conditions.

Specifications

Technical Specifications

Feature	Value
Engine Options	2.3L I-4, 3.0L V6
Transmission	10-Speed Automatic
Drive Types	RWD, AWD

Powertrain and Performance

Engine	Horsepower	Torque (lb-ft)	Max Towing
2.3L EcoBoost	300	310	5000
3.0L V6	400	415	5000

Fuel Economy

Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
2.3L	20	27	23
3.0L	18	25	20

Dimensions and Weight

Measurement	Value
Length	198.7 in
Width	78.9 in
Height	69.6–69.8 in
Wheelbase	119.1 in

Pricing and Trims

Trim	Starting MSRP
Active	~$40,050
ST-Line	~$45,000
Platinum	~$52,525
ST	~$54,770

Conclusion

The 2025 Ford Explorer remains a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment by blending space, performance, and technology into a well-rounded package. With powerful engine options, flexible seating, and modern infotainment, it continues to appeal to families and drivers who want more than basic transportation from their SUV.