The Ford Explorer is one of America's most iconic and popular SUVs. It has been around since 1991 and has evolved over the years to meet drivers' and passengers' changing needs and preferences. The latest generation of the Explorer, which debuted in 2020, introduced a new rear-wheel-drive platform, a hybrid option, and a high-performance ST variant. Now, for the 2025 model year, Ford is taking the Explorer to the next level with a major redesign that enhances its style, performance, technology, and versatility.
A New Look for the Explorer
The first thing that catches the eye of the 2025 Ford Explorer is its new exterior design. The Explorer is more muscular and aggressive, with a wider grille, sharper headlights, sculpted hood, and flared fenders. The Explorer also has a new roofline that slopes down to the rear, giving it a sleeker and sportier profile. The rear end features new LED taillights, a redesigned liftgate, and a dual exhaust system. The Explorer also offers a variety of new colors, wheels, and trim options, including the XLT Sport Appearance Package, the ST-Line, and the King Ranch.
The interior of the Explorer has also been revamped, with a more spacious and comfortable cabin that can accommodate up to seven passengers. The Explorer has a new dashboard features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that runs on the SYNC 4A software. The Explorer also has a new rotary gear selector, a wireless charging pad, and a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Explorer also offers a range of advanced safety and driver-assist features, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes:
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and lane-centering
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Active Park Assist 2.0
- Reverse Brake Assist
- Intelligent Adaptive Cornering Lights
A New Level of Performance for the Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer also delivers a new level of performance with a range of powerful and efficient engine options. The Explorer offers four different engines, depending on the trim level:
- A 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel drive or intelligent four-wheel drive. This engine is standard on the base, XLT, and Limited trims.
- A 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and intelligent four-wheel drive. This engine is standard on the Platinum trim and optional on the Limited trim.
- A 3.3-liter hybrid engine that combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor and a 10-speed modular hybrid transmission, producing a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available on the Limited and King Ranch trims and offers an estimated range of over 500 miles on a single tank of gas.
- A 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and intelligent four-wheel drive. This engine is exclusive to the ST trim, which is the performance-oriented version of the Explorer. The ST trim also features a sport-tuned suspension, a sport mode, and larger brakes and wheels.
The 2025 Ford Explorer also offers a new Terrain Management System, which allows the driver to choose from seven different drive modes: Normal, Sport, Trail, Slippery, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Deep Snow/Sand. The system adjusts the engine, transmission, throttle, steering, and traction settings to optimize the performance and handling of the Explorer on different road and weather conditions.
A New Standard of Versatility for the Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer also sets a new standard of versatility, with a flexible and functional interior that can adapt to various needs and situations. The Explorer has a new second-row seat that can slide and tilt forward with one touch, making it easier to access the third-row seat. The Explorer also has a new PowerFold third-row seat that can fold flat with the push of a button, creating a flat cargo floor. The Explorer also has a new Cargo Management System, which includes a reversible load floor, a cargo net, and side bins. The Explorer also offers a new hands-free liftgate, which can be opened or closed by waving a foot under the rear bumper.
The 2025 Ford Explorer also has a new towing capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds when equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package. The Explorer also has a new Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature, which allows the driver to steer the trailer using a knob on the dashboard while the system controls the steering wheel, brakes, and throttle. The Explorer also has a new Trailer Sway Control feature, which detects and reduces trailer sway by applying brakes and reducing engine power.
A New Name for the Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer is more than just a new model. It is also a new name for the Explorer, as Ford has decided to drop the “SUV” from its name and simply call it the “Explorer”. This bold move reflects Ford's confidence and pride in its flagship vehicle, which has been a leader and innovator in its segment for three decades. The Explorer is not just an SUV. It is the Explorer.
