It’s like that reliable old friend who’s always up for a cross-country road trip or hauling the boat to the lake. The 2025 Explorer gets a significant refresh, and as an auto editor, I couldn’t wait to dive in. Let’s break down what makes this big American SUV tick, why it appeals to U.S. buyers, and whether it’s worth the investment.
Exterior: Rugged Looks with Modern Polish
The 2025 Ford Explorer is like a linebacker in a tailored suit – muscular yet refined. The design has evolved to feel more contemporary while keeping that unmistakable American presence. The grille varies by trim (each version from Active to Platinum gets its own distinctive style). Full LED headlights are now standard across the board, and the taillights have been subtly redesigned for a sleeker look.
Dimensions remain commanding: roughly 198 inches long and nearly 79 inches wide. It won’t slip into the tightest downtown parking spots, but it’s perfect for highway cruising or weekend getaways. Ground clearance ranges from 7.9 to 8.2 inches depending on the trim, enough to handle light off-road trails or gravel roads without worry. Plus, a standard trailer hitch rated for up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity is a huge bonus for anyone who loves bringing along a camper or jet skis.
Interior: Space, Tech, and Classic American Comfort
Step inside the Explorer and you’re greeted by cavernous space. There’s plenty of room for the driver, second-row passengers, and even those brave enough to climb into the third row. For 2025, Ford doubled down on technology: a massive 13.2-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster dominate the dash. No more analog gauges – everything is crisp and modern. The Ford Digital Experience system is intuitive, and with eight USB ports scattered throughout, everyone stays charged.
Materials are solid but not ultra-luxury. Leather, soft-touch plastics, and tasteful chrome accents feel durable and well-assembled. I actually appreciate this straightforward American approach – no over-the-top opulence. Higher trims add massaging seats and a heated steering wheel, while the power liftgate opens with a hands-free foot gesture – perfect when your arms are full of grocery bags. Trunk space is impressive: 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to a massive 87.8 cubic feet with all seats folded. Everything from strollers to camping gear fits with ease.
Under the Hood: Power and Presence
Ford streamlined the engine lineup for 2025. Buyers now choose between two turbocharged gasoline options:
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder: 300 hp, 310 lb-ft – great balance of performance and efficiency.
- 3.0-liter V6 EcoBoost: 400 hp, 415 lb-ft – for those who love serious acceleration.
Both pair with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic. The base engine hits 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds, while the V6 does it in around 5.3 seconds – impressive for a vehicle this size. Fuel economy isn’t its strongest suit: expect around 20–22 mpg city and 27–29 mpg highway for the 2.3-liter, dropping to 18–20 mpg city for the V6. Premium unleaded (91 octane recommended) is the fuel of choice. The hybrid option is no longer available for retail buyers.
On the Road: Comfort-First Cruiser
The 2025 Explorer prioritizes comfort over sportiness. The suspension soaks up potholes and expansion joints, while excellent sound insulation keeps long highway drives relaxing – think Interstate cruises from coast to coast. Available all-wheel drive with Terrain Management System offers modes for snow, sand, or mud – handy for winter drives or forest service roads. BlueCruise 1.2 hands-free highway driving is available on higher trims, with a 90-day trial included and then a subscription fee. It works well on mapped highways but still requires driver attention.
Fun fact: the Explorer is one of America’s best-selling SUVs ever, with over 8 million sold! It remains a favorite for families who need space, capability, and that classic American SUV feel.
Pricing and Competition: How It Stacks Up
The 2025 Ford Explorer starts at an MSRP of $39,625 for the base model (around $42,000–$44,000 out-the-door depending on region). Top Platinum trims can reach $60,000. Estimated market pricing in the United States typically ranges from $42,000 for entry-level models to $58,000–$62,000 for fully loaded versions.
Main competitors include:
- Toyota Highlander: more fuel-efficient and known for bulletproof reliability.
- Mazda CX-90: sharper handling and more upscale interior, but less third-row space.
- Hyundai Palisade/Kia Telluride: similar size with richer interiors at competitive pricing.
The Explorer stands out with its bold styling, potent engines, and strong towing capability, though it trades some efficiency for that performance.
Final Verdict: Who’s This Explorer For?
The 2025 Ford Explorer is perfect for buyers wanting a spacious, capable, and comfortable three-row SUV. It shines on family road trips, weekend adventures, or simply commanding presence on daily commutes. Its roominess, power, and trail-ready features make it a solid choice for American drivers.
My take? The Explorer is like a classic American burger – big, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It won’t suit everyone, but if you love that bold SUV experience, you’ll be thrilled. Would you choose one for your garage?
