2025 Ford Explorer

Performance 

The Explorer is powered by a choice of two robust EcoBoost engines. Standard on the Active, ST-Line, and Platinum models is a new 2.3-liter Ecoboost turbocharged inline-4 engine, which had its debut in the Mustang. It produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, sending power to either the rear or all four wheels. 2025 EPA estimates are not available as of this writing, but the 2024 model with the same drivetrain achieves up to 21 city, 28 highway, for 25 combined with rear-wheel drive (RWD). All-wheel drive (AWD) brings each figure down by just one MPG. 

The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is standard on the ST and available on the Platinum. Featuring twin turbochargers, this engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It is also paired with the 10-speed transmission and is available in both RWD and AWD. The former has a 2024 EPA-city/highway/combined estimate of 18/25/20 for RWD. The AWD is the same except for a one MPG drop on the highway.

The Explorer rides on a 4-wheel multi-link suspension, and its long 119-inch wheelbase brings highway stability. Car and Driver described the handling as “composed and predictable” and notes that models with the larger engine are also accompanied by a stiffer suspension for a sportier feel.

All 2025 models are equipped with a Class III trailering package, which enables a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. Trailer sway control as part of the AdvanceTrac system and trailer coverage for the Blind Spot Information System assist with towing. Tow/Haul is among the seven available drive modes, which adjusts calibration for the transmission, traction control, and all-wheel drive when present. Other drive modes also include Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery Trail, and, on AWD models, Deep Snow/Sand.

Exterior

The Explorer styling is an artful blend of modern with some traditional Explorer styling cues. The squared-off proportions do not sacrifice form for function, but form is given its due with a prominent grille up front with a different style for each trim level.

LED headlights and tail lights help you see and be seen, and there are seven attractive wheel designs in the model line ranging from 18 to 21 inches. Roof rails and a power liftgate are standard on all models to enhance utility.

Interior

The big news for the 2025 Explorer Cabin is the all-new dash. The design features multiple horizontal layers in the center for easy reach. The standard 13.2-inch touchscreen tops the center controls, and at the bottom of the screen is a fixed set of climate controls that are all within easy reach and provide useful visuals to show status and function acknowledgment. Further below are physical controls for volume and other functions, as well as a storage tray perfect for cell phones that is available as a wireless charger on some models. Standard on Platinum and ST and available on the ST-Line is interior ambient lighting with seven color choices and brightness control. All models feature a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. 

The cabin includes seating capacity for seven. ST and Platinum models have seating for six as they replace the 3-seater 2nd-row bench for captain’s chairs of the same shape as the front seats. This is an available option for the Active and ST-Line models and standard on ST and Platinum. With either configuration, 2nd-row passengers enjoy a generous 39 inches of rear legroom and 61.9 inches of shoulder room. A button on the 2nd-row seat back folds the seat back and slides the seat forward for easy access to the 3rd row.

Behind the third-row seat, there is a 20.8-inch cargo floor. With a width of 64.5 inches and a height of 32.8 inches, that amounts to 16.3 cubic feet overall. Folding the third row expands the floor length to over 4 feet for 46 cubic feet of space, and that almost doubles to 84.1 inches in length when the second-row seat backs are folded for 85.8 cubic feet of space. 

Technology 

The 2025 Explorer provides the debut of the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system. In addition to the new 13.2-inch screen is its Google-Built-in operating system with five times the response quickness of the previous system. An App display gives the driver instant access to several functions ranging from FM audio source choice to Google Maps, phone use, and much more. You can even have a WebEx conference call using the vehicle’s multiple speakers, and when stationary, the center screen can be used as a monitor. You can also position these choices to have the most used in the most accessible locations. 

You also have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility if you prefer their interfaces. The Google Built-in system also gives you Google Assistant voice recognition. If you have a Google account, the settings and locations can immediately be transferred to the Explorer’s operating system. 

For passengers, there is FordPass Connect, which offers 5G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capability and two USB charge ports for each seating row. 

Safety and Driver Assistance 

The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ system is standard on every Explorer and includes: 

• Lane-Keeping and Lane Centering Systems – Scans for lane lines and helps position the vehicle in the lane center. Also informs you if you start to edge out of the lane. 

• Evasive Steering Assist – Alerts you to a slow or stopped vehicle in your path and can provide additional steering support to avoid a collision. 

• Rear View Camera – Automatically gives you a digital rearview when you select reverse and provides guidelines to help you steer. 

• Hill Descent Control – Acting like a slow-speed cruise control, it will use the brakes to maintain a steady speed when maneuvering your explorer down a steep incline. 

• Adaptive Cruise Control – Maintains a set speed on the open road and then a set timed distance from the vehicle ahead when there is traffic.  

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking – Scan the road to look for potential collisions, at which point it will alert the driver and begin emergency braking when necessary 

• Blind Spot Information System – Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot on each side. The blind spot can be extended when a trailer is attached. 

• Rear Cross Traffic Alert – This will warn you if a vehicle approaches from either side when backing out of a parking space or other visually obstructed location. 

• Pro Trailer Backup Assist – Can steer a vehicle reversing with a trailer by rotating a knob in the direction you want the trailer to go. 

• Auto High Beam Headlamps