The 2025 Ford Explorer arrives with a redesigned interior, updated engine options, and new safety features
Ford released the 2025 Explorer in late 2024 as a mid-cycle refresh of its three-row SUV. The vehicle keeps the same overall body shape but adds a redesigned dashboard, a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard, and a revised infotainment system. The engine lineup remains largely the same — a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 as the base engine and a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost as an available upgrade — though Ford has made adjustments to fuel efficiency and performance across trims.
The 2025 model year also introduces updated driver information features, including an improved version of Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite. Pricing starts around $35,000 for the base model, though the exact price depends on your region and current dealer inventory. If you are shopping for a three-row SUV, understanding what changed from the previous generation and what trim levels offer can help you decide whether the 2025 Explorer fits your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Explorer keeps its familiar three-row design but adds a new interior layout, digital dashboard, and updated infotainment system.
- Engine options remain the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 and the turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost, with adjustments to efficiency and power output.
- Ford added new driver information features and safety technology to the standard Co-Pilot360 suite for the 2025 model year.
- Trim levels range from base Explorer through ST-Line, Limited, and Platinum, with each adding different interior materials, technology, and comfort features.
Interior and Technology Changes for 2025
The most visible change inside the 2025 Explorer is the redesigned dashboard. Ford moved the infotainment screen higher and angled it toward the driver, similar to the layout in the newer Mustang. The standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces the older analog gauges, giving all trim levels a more modern appearance. The center console has been reorganized to include more storage and easier access to climate controls.
The infotainment system now runs Ford's latest software, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims. The system responds faster to voice commands and touch inputs than the previous generation. Depending on the trim level, you can add a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems from Bang & Olufsen.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
The base 2025 Explorer uses a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that produces 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with rear-wheel drive; all-wheel drive is available. Ford estimates the base model achieves approximately 21 miles per gallon in combined driving with rear-wheel drive.
The optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. This engine is available on higher trims and delivers noticeably stronger acceleration, though fuel economy drops slightly. Both engines meet current emissions standards and use regular unleaded gasoline.
Safety Features and Driver information Technology
Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite comes standard on all 2025 Explorer models. This package includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping information, and adaptive cruise control. The 2025 model adds an improved version of Ford's evasive steering information, which can help steer around obstacles if a collision is imminent.
Higher trims add Co-Pilot360 Plus, which includes additional features like automatic parking information and a 360-degree camera system. The Platinum trim includes Co-Pilot360 Plus Adapt, which uses radar and cameras to adjust cruise control speed based on road curves and traffic patterns. All models come with a backup camera and rear parking sensors as standard.
Trim Levels and What Each Offers
The 2025 Explorer comes in four main trim levels: base Explorer, ST-Line, Limited, and Platinum. The base model includes cloth seats, a manual driver's seat, and the standard 12.3-inch digital cluster. ST-Line adds sportier exterior styling, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upgraded suspension tuning.
The Limited trim brings leather seats, power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, a heated steering wheel, and a power liftgate. The Platinum adds premium leather, heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and the larger 13.2-inch touchscreen. Each trim level can be customized with additional packages for features like all-wheel drive, upgraded audio, or the twin-turbocharged engine.
Seating, Cargo Space, and Towing Capacity
The 2025 Explorer seats up to seven passengers across three rows. The second row has a 60/40 split-folding bench seat, and the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips due to limited legroom. With all seats in place, the cargo area holds 18.2 cubic feet; folding the third row expands that to 47.9 cubic feet, and folding both rear rows provides 87.8 cubic feet of space.
The Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the available towing package. This makes it suitable for small trailers, jet skis, or light recreational equipment. The base model without the towing package has a lower towing capacity, so confirm the package is included if towing is important to your use.
Comparing the 2025 Explorer to Other Three-Row SUVs
The 2025 Explorer competes directly with the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander. The Explorer typically starts at a lower price point than the Highlander but offers similar interior space and technology. The Traverse is often priced comparably but has a different design philosophy. The Honda Pilot sits between the Explorer and Highlander in price and emphasizes reliability and resale value.
The main advantage of the 2025 Explorer is its updated interior technology and the availability of the twin-turbocharged engine for those who want stronger performance. If fuel economy is your priority, the Highlander's hybrid option may be worth considering, though the Explorer's base EcoBoost engine is competitive. Test driving multiple models will help you determine which layout, controls, and driving feel work best for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I buy a 2025 Ford Explorer?
The 2025 Explorer began arriving at Ford dealerships in late 2024. Availability varies by region and trim level. Contact local dealerships to ask about current inventory and expected delivery times if you want to order a specific configuration.
Does the 2025 Explorer come with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive is available on all trim levels but is not standard on the base model. The base Explorer comes with rear-wheel drive. Adding all-wheel drive increases the price and slightly reduces fuel economy.
What is the warranty on the 2025 Explorer?
Ford covers the 2025 Explorer with a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Specific terms and coverage details are included in the owner's manual and warranty booklet provided at purchase.
Can I get a hybrid version of the 2025 Explorer?
Ford does not offer a hybrid version of the 2025 Explorer. The vehicle uses gasoline EcoBoost engines only. If hybrid technology is important to you, the Toyota Highlander offers a hybrid option in a similar size and price range.
How does the 2025 Explorer's interior compare to the previous generation?
The 2025 model has a completely redesigned dashboard with a higher-mounted touchscreen, a standard digital instrument cluster, and reorganized controls. The overall cabin layout is more modern, though the basic seating configuration and cargo space remain similar to the previous generation.