From rugged trails to open skies, the Ford Explorer never stops exploring

The 2025 Ford Explorer, a beloved SUV since the early 90s, has evolved from a rugged trailblazer to a refined, tech-savvy three-row SUV. Its refreshed design, upgraded interior, and smarter infotainment honor its heritage while providing modern features. This review will explore its strengths and shortcomings to help determine its suitability.

Interior

The 2025 Ford Explorer has undergone a significant interior redesign, featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The dashboard has been updated with softer-touch materials and a slightly forward-facing feel. The Explorer offers seating for up to seven, with generous legroom and supportive seating for long drives, particularly in the first two rows.

5 Pros

The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a midsize SUV with a blend of power, comfort, and innovation, addressing past weaknesses and enhancing drivers' satisfaction. Its strengths and areas for improvement are examined.

• The Explorer offers a spacious interior with a three-row seating capacity, accommodating up to seven passengers, making it ideal for daily errands and road trips.

• The Explorer boasts impressive towing capabilities, making it an ideal companion for weekend adventures, especially those who require both strength and space.

• Ford has revamped its cabin with modern comforts, incorporating softer materials, refined details, and improved ergonomics, resulting in a premium feel that blends durability with everyday use.

• The 13.2-inch touchscreen enhances connectivity, providing quick responses and seamless smartphone integration for drivers and passengers.

• The Explorer offers a comfortable and versatile driving experience, suitable for city commutes and outdoor getaways, thanks to its smooth ride and optional all-wheel drive.

5 Cons

The 2025 Explorer, despite its numerous enhancements, has several drawbacks that potential buyers should consider before making a purchase decision.

• The Explorer's price has increased due to its increased features and premium touches, making it less budget-friendly than some competitors.

• The third row, although seating seven, is best for children or shorter adults, especially for families frequently using all three rows.

• The Explorer's fuel efficiency remains mid-pack compared to hybrid or smaller SUV options, particularly with the V6 engine.

• The advanced infotainment and digital displays in new tech may take time for some drivers to master.

• The midsize SUV market is dominated by formidable competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Kia Telluride, each offering unique advantages that challenge the Explorer's value.

Fuel Consumption and Engine

The 2025 Ford Explorer offers two engines: a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder for everyday performance and 24 mpg combined, and a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 for stronger acceleration and higher towing capacity, with fuel economy dropping to 20 mpg combined. The Explorer offers both standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) for added confidence in rough weather or light off-road conditions, making it appealing to commuters and adventure seekers, offering a balance between power, practicality, and fuel efficiency.

Hybrid Engine

Ford has discontinued the hybrid engine option in the Explorer lineup for 2025, focusing on turbocharged four-cylinder and powerful V6 engines. This may disappoint fuel-saving hybrid SUV buyers. For those seeking a hybrid powertrain, shoppers should explore previous Explorer model years or competitor options. Despite the 2025 Explorer's emphasis on performance and practicality, hybrid seekers still have strong alternatives.

Trim Levels

The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a four-trim lineup, with Active as the base model offering a balance of comfort, technology, and practicality. The ST-Line trim offers a sporty appearance with a 300-hp turbocharged engine, while the ST is a performance-focused model with a 400-hp twin-turbo V6 engine. The Platinum trim is the pinnacle of luxury, combining premium materials, advanced technology, and comfort-focused features. The 2025 Explorer's trim lineup aims to match a model to one's lifestyle, ensuring a versatile and comfortable vehicle.

Finally

The 2025 Ford Explorer refresh improves on previous models with a redesigned interior, improved materials, and upgraded infotainment system. It offers powerful engine options, comfortable seating, and versatile towing capabilities, making it a practical choice for families and adventure-oriented drivers. You can now check the Ford Explorer stock list for available models and purchase parts here.