The biggest seller in the midsize SUV class isn鈥檛 resting comfortably at the top. With a midcycle refresh, Ford looks to keep its popular Explorer ahead of the very eager competition looking to move ahead.
For 2025, Ford gave the Explorer a better-equipped interior to keep this SUV high on buyers鈥� minds. One thing you notice is a more refined look inside the 2025 Explorer ST, starting with comfortable seats up front and improved materials used in the cabin. The front multi-contour seats are good for the long haul and there is even massage for the win.
Where this three-row SUV falls a bit short against the competition is space in the third row and overall space in the cabin. There is a new digital experience with a large 13.2-inch touch screen where you can download Google Play apps directly to the car. Loading cargo is easier now with push-button power-folding rear seats.
Styling has also changed for 2025 with a fresh-looking front end. A new Explorer badge is very prominent on the hood. The ST version I drove is distinguished from other Explorer models with a black mesh grill that looks larger this year. This sporty-looking Explorer ST also comes with black badging, roof, side mirrors and large 21-inch lower profile tires for an edgy look. Even out back, the Explorer ST comes and makes a power statement with quad exhaust tips poking out from the back bumper.
Unlike many SUVs today, the Ford Explorer ST turns to power and sport as its motto. With 400 horsepower from a twin-turbo V6, this SUV really moves quickly when you call on it. The ST version also handles better than any of the three-row SUVs I鈥檝e driven lately. It likes taking the corners and can handle a back road without any issues. The larger wheels and lower profile tires on the Explorer ST don鈥檛 suppress the potholes and cracked pavement that we have after winter. Other Explorer models will give you a softer ride with fewer sporty suspension tweaks and smaller wheels.
Cost: $55,530; as tested $67,410
MPG: 20 mpg city; 24 mpg highway. I managed 21.1 in 495 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $2,995 sun and sound package; $4,895 black painted roof; $495 Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving 1-year plan; $495 Rapid Red Metallic
Safety: Rearview camera system; Ford Co-Pilot360 assist 2.0; adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go; SOS postcrash alert system; blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert with trailer tow monitoring; pre-collision assists with automatic emergency braking; Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped; AdvanceTrac with roll stability control
Things to know: The Ford Explorer aims to stay at the top of the midsize SUV market with a new interior and an available ST model that adds fun with big power and improved handling.
Pros:
- A modernized interior has better materials and comfortable seats.
- ST trim level adds an improved suspension and loads of power.
- More and updated technology and driver assist features like highway driving assist.
Cons:
- Choosing the ST trim level is pricey.
- Not as much space in the second and third rows when compared to some other SUVs.
- Big power twin-turbo V6 means less miles per gallon.
