2025 Ford Explorer: mid-cycle refresh highlights

Since the debut of the Ford Explorer nameplate more than 30 years back, the car has continued to ripen and has invariably been among the best-selling midsize, four-door SUVs in the US market.

For the 2025 model year, the sixth-generation Ford Explorer has undergone a mid-cycle refresh that enhances the model lineup, significantly upgrades the cabin, and introduces new technology.

This refresh maintains the familiar architecture while adding notable improvements.

History and Architecture

The sixth-generation Explorer, introduced in 2019 as a 2020 model, features a rear-drive based unibody architecture with optional all-wheel-drive, a departure from the transverse-mounted engines and front or all-wheel-drive of the fifth generation. This layout, along with most of the exterior design, continues for 2025 with minimal changes.

Exterior Updates

The 2025 Explorer retains the recognizable design of the past five years but introduces a few key visual updates:

Larger, Octagonal Grille: Similar to the one on the Escape.
New Headlamps: Revised for a modern look.
Tail Lamp Clusters: Redesigned with a full-width bar including the embossed Explorer name.
Revised Front and Rear Detailing: Subtle changes to the plastic sculpting.

Interior and Technology

The most significant changes are inside the cabin, particularly in the front:

13-inch Landscape Touchscreen: Replaces the previous 8-inch and 10-inch screens, now with center vents below it.
Ford Digital Experience: First implementation of Ford’s Android Automotive-based system, featuring Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Play Store.
Retained Smartphone Projection: Unlike GM’s new EVs, the Explorer still supports iPhone and Android device projection.
Wireless Charging Pad: Integrated into a new dashboard shelf, with additional storage space.
Material Upgrades: Improved padding on touchpoints, especially on the center console.

BlueCruise Driving Assist

The 2025 Explorer offers BlueCruise hands-free driving assist:

Also read: Meta’s Content Moderation Disrupted By Global Tech Outage

Standard on Higher Trims: Available on ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trims.
Subscription-Based: Includes a three-month trial, with annual plans available for $700.
Performance: Works well on pre-mapped highways but still falls short of GM’s Super Cruise, especially on curves.

Powertrain Options

The driving experience remains similar to the 2024 model:

2.3-liter EcoBoost Engine: Standard on most trims, offering 300-hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
3.0-liter Twin-Turbo V6: Optional on Platinum and standard on ST, producing 400-hp and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Economy: Four-cylinder models achieve 24 mpg combined (RWD), while the V6 AWD models get 21 mpg combined.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2025 Explorer’s lineup has been simplified:

Base RWD Active: Starts at $41,350 including destination charge.
Fully Loaded AWD ST: Can reach up to $69,000 with options.
Recommended Option: An AWD ST-Line under $50,000 offers a balanced package.

Market Position

The refreshed Explorer competes with models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander:

Interior Appeal: Improved materials and technology make it more competitive.
Driving Assist: Not best in class but still a valuable feature.
Fuel Economy and Pricing: Comparable to most competitors, though the Highlander hybrid offers superior fuel efficiency.

Overall, the 2025 Ford Explorer remains a strong contender in the upper midsize 3-row SUV segment, with its refreshed interior and advanced technology making it a more attractive option for consumers.