Big Updates for the 2025 Ford Explorer

Although not the largest SUV in Ford’s lineup (that title goes to the Expedition), the Explorer is a three-row SUV that has a lot to offer. This is one of our favorite models when someone comes to us looking for an SUV that can get six people comfortably around town without becoming too large. Whether you’re already looking for a Ford Explorer for sale or just getting to know what it has to offer, you’ve picked a great time to check out this SUV because it’s been updated in some significant ways for the 2025 model year. It’s better than ever, and the selection of trim levels and features inside and out make this a terrific choice for a wide range of drivers, so let’s take a look at what’s new and what you should know about this impressive SUV.

Streamlined to Four Trim Levels

One of the best things about the updates for the 2025 Explorer is that Ford has simplified the selection that’s available while still ensuring you have great options to choose from. Four trim levels are now available for the Explorer. Your choice of trim has a big impact on the kinds of performance and features you get in the Explorer, so it’s important to take your time and carefully consider what each has to offer. Of course, if you’re unsure of which model is right for you, then we’re here and always happy to help you explore them all and pick the best one to meet your needs each day.

2025 Ford Explorer Active

The Active is the starting trim for the 2025 Ford Explorer, and it shows us the impressive standard features of this SUV. You get a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine on this model, which provides 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque; a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard on all this and all Explorer trims. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, though Intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD) is available if you prefer the enhanced traction it provides. You get 18-inch wheels on the standard Active model, plus 20-inch wheels are available if you prefer. LED headlamps and taillamps are both standard, and a power liftgate makes it easy to access the rear cargo area.

Inside, you’ll find an impressive 13.2-inch infotainment display up front, along with a large 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster display. Comfort is at the forefront with the 2025 Explorer, which you can see even looking at this standard model with tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control, cloth seating, and a 10-way power driver’s seat. Ford has designed E-Z Entry second-row seating that moves at the push of a button to give your passengers access to the third row without much effort. You even get heated front seats and great safety features like a lane keeping system and reverse brake assist standard in the Active model.

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line

If you’re looking for a few upgrades for the Ford Explorer, then the ST-Line is a good one to consider, especially if you like the distinct styling it provides. For starters, this trim comes with 20-inch wheels standard, though 21-inch wheels are available if you want an SUV with incredibly bold looks and a larger stance. This model features a unique Blackout treatment on the headlamps and taillamps, plus a black mesh insert for the grille and black skid plate elements. Inside, you’ll find more distinct visual elements based on its ST status, including unique ebony doors with red stitching. This matches the ActiveX seating and leather-wrapped steering wheel that both feature red stitching, plus you get second-row heated seats, an eight-way power front-passenger seat, and a 10-speaker B&O sound system, all included with this model.

2025 Ford Explorer Platinum

The Platinum trim gives you the most upgrades and sophisticated features for the Ford Explorer along with the standard engine—we’ll see enhanced performance in a moment. 20-inch wheels are still standard here with 21-inch wheels available, though the styling of the wheels is different compared to the ST-Line; you’ll find satin chrome and silver exterior details on the Platinum, rather than the Black elements of the previous trim. Interior upgrades for this trim include a wireless charging pad for compatible devices, ambient lighting, first-row heated and ventilated seating, and leather seating surfaces. There’s even a 14-speaker B&O sound system inside this trim level, creating an incredible audio experience when you’re on the road.

2025 Ford Explorer ST

If you want remarkable, upgraded performance from your three-row SUV, then you need to check out the ST model: the fastest Ford Explorer ever. The ST comes with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque; this includes a SelectShift transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel. With this trim, you can still choose Intelligent 4WD if you prefer it over standard RWD. To go along with all of this power, 21-inch magnetite-painted wheels are standard, creating a bold stance that’s sure to turn heads. This model has unique black exterior details like the ST-Line, plus quad chrome exhaust tips that look great and boost performance. Inside, you’ll find the signature red stitching throughout, along with ST logos and details. ActiveX seating with Miko inserts makes this model stand out among other trim levels.

The Ford Digital Experience

We’ve already mentioned some of the great aspects of this feature, but we needed to go into a bit more detail to do it justice. The 2025 Explorer is the first model to showcase the new Ford Digital Experience approach to interior technology and Infotainment, all beautifully revealed on the massive 13.2-inch display. This large screen is easy to reach and use, with advanced personalization settings along with Google built-in; look up maps or directions through Google on your phone and then find them displayed automatically when you get into your car with your account signed in. You get 5G connectivity for incredibly fast speeds without the need to use your phone, plus numerous in-vehicle apps that are perfect for listening to music, video-conferencing so you don’t miss important meetings, and more. You get Alexa built-in for voice assistant functionality, and you can even use the Explorer as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your devices.

Hands-Free Highway Driving Now Available

One thing we haven’t mentioned yet is that Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system is now available for the Explorer on the ST-Line, Platinum, and ST models. The BlueCruise system works on more than 130,000 miles of roads across North America, accounting for 97% of controlled-access highways in the US and Canada. In these areas, you can activate the BlueCruise system, and it will take over for you so you can safely remove your hands from the wheel and let the Explorer take care of everything, including adjusting speed to the flow of traffic, keeping you centered in your lane, and more. With a driver-facing camera, Ford ensures you stay focused on the road, even with your hands off the wheel, so that you and others are safe when the BlueCruise system is engaged. All of this creates a system that makes long road trips and your daily commute easier and more relaxing.

Is This the Three-Row SUV You’ve Been Looking For?

As you can see, the 2025 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer, and it’s a fantastic choice for a wide range of drivers. Keep in mind that its three-row design means the back seats are a bit cramped for adults or folks with long legs, but they’re perfect for kids. You have four excellent trim levels to choose from, which makes it easy to get the features you want without missing out on anything or going overboard with things you’re not looking for. Plus, the new Ford Digital Experience and most models being equipped with the BlueCruise hands-free driving system make this SUV better than ever before. All that’s left is to come visit us to see the new Explorer for yourself and then head home in a vehicle you’ll love driving each day.