2025 Ford Explorer Review

2025 Ford Explorer Review: American Three-Row SUV Innovation and Performance

The 2025 Ford Explorer represents the pinnacle of American three-row SUV engineering, combining powerful EcoBoost performance, advanced rear-wheel-drive architecture, comprehensive family technology, and distinctive Ford capability in a package that redefines three-row SUV expectations for performance-oriented families.

Executive Summary

The seventh-generation Ford Explorer builds upon decades of American SUV leadership with sophisticated engineering, advanced technology integration, and performance capabilities that distinguish it from efficiency-focused competitors. Built on Ford's rear-wheel-drive CD6 platform shared with the Lincoln Aviator, the Explorer provides driving dynamics and towing capability that appeal to families who want SUV practicality without sacrificing performance engagement.

Our comprehensive family testing reveals a three-row SUV that excels in areas where many competitors compromise: towing capability, performance options, and driving engagement. The Explorer's combination of multiple EcoBoost engine options, rear-wheel-drive architecture, and available performance variants creates appeal for families who want more than basic transportation functionality.

Performance Heritage: The Explorer ST variant provides genuine high-performance capability with 400 horsepower that rivals luxury performance SUVs, while base models deliver strong everyday performance with excellent towing capacity for family recreational activities.

Key Specifications

EcoBoost Performance and Capability

Multiple Engine Options

The 2025 Explorer offers three distinct EcoBoost engine options that provide different performance and efficiency characteristics to match varied family needs. The base 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing strong performance that easily handles family hauling while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for a large SUV.

The available 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 transforms the Explorer's performance character significantly, delivering 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque that provide genuinely quick acceleration and confident towing capability. The Explorer ST variant's 400 horsepower creates sports car-like acceleration in a family SUV package, with 0-60 mph times of just 5.2 seconds.

Rear-Wheel Drive Architecture

Ford's decision to build the Explorer on a rear-wheel-drive platform creates driving dynamics that distinguish it from front-wheel-drive competitors. The RWD architecture provides better weight distribution, improved towing stability, and more engaging handling characteristics that appeal to drivers who want three-row utility without sacrificing driving enjoyment.

The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system can distribute power between front and rear axles while also providing side-to-side torque distribution through the rear differential. Multiple terrain modes adjust system behavior for different surfaces, while the system operates seamlessly during normal driving to provide enhanced traction without efficiency penalties.

Towing and Utility Leadership

Maximum towing capacity reaches 5,600 pounds across all engine options, making the Explorer one of the most capable three-row SUVs for families with boats, travel trailers, or equipment hauling needs. The rear-wheel-drive architecture and sophisticated transmission programming provide stable, confident towing performance that exceeds front-wheel-drive competitors.

Interior Design and Family Technology

Three-Row Configuration and Space

The 2025 Explorer's interior design reflects Ford's focus on American family needs, providing generous space, practical storage solutions, and technology integration that appeals to diverse family structures. The three-row configuration offers flexibility between six and seven-passenger layouts, allowing families to prioritize either individual comfort or maximum seating capacity.

Second-row seating offers exceptional comfort and convenience with available captain's chairs that provide individual comfort and easy third-row access. The captain's chair configuration includes adjustable armrests, individual climate controls, and convenient storage compartments that enhance passenger comfort during longer family trips.

Third-row accommodations provide adequate space for adult passengers, though taller individuals may find headroom and legroom more limited during extended trips. The power-folding third row makes cargo conversion effortless, while the wide opening and low load floor facilitate loading family equipment and luggage.

SYNC 4A Technology System

Ford's SYNC 4A infotainment system, featuring either a 10.1-inch or available 12-inch touchscreen, provides comprehensive functionality with cloud-based connectivity and over-the-air update capability. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, comprehensive navigation with real-time traffic, and voice recognition that responds to natural language commands.

The available FordPass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot can connect up to 10 devices, providing comprehensive connectivity for family entertainment and productivity needs during travel. The system operates reliably and provides genuine utility for families with multiple devices and varying connectivity needs.

Family-Focused Convenience Features

Storage solutions throughout the cabin demonstrate understanding of family needs, with numerous compartments, cup holders, and charging options positioned for convenience during daily use and longer trips. The center console provides substantial storage space with organizational features, while door pockets and seat-back storage accommodate family equipment and personal items.

Safety and Ford Co-Pilot360

Crash Test Performance

The 2025 Explorer achieves strong safety ratings that reflect Ford's commitment to family protection across all price points. The five-star NHTSA rating demonstrates excellent performance in frontal and side-impact tests, while IIHS ratings are generally good across multiple test scenarios, though the vehicle's size and weight create challenges common to all large SUVs.

Standard safety equipment includes comprehensive airbag coverage throughout all three rows, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, and side curtain airbags that extend across all three rows. The Explorer's body structure incorporates high-strength steel construction with strategic reinforcement zones.

Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology

Ford Co-Pilot360 comes standard on all Explorer models, providing comprehensive safety technologies that are particularly valuable for family driving. The pre-collision assist system can prevent or reduce the severity of frontal crashes, while blind spot monitoring provides crucial assistance when changing lanes with limited visibility due to the SUV's size.

Reliability and Ford Ownership

Ford's recent reliability improvements are evident in the current Explorer generation, with better initial quality scores and fewer reported issues compared to previous models. The rear-wheel-drive platform has proven more reliable than the previous front-wheel-drive architecture, while EcoBoost engines have matured significantly since their introduction.

Ford's warranty coverage includes 3 years/36,000 miles basic protection and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain coverage, which is standard for the segment. Ford's extensive dealer network provides convenient service access for families across the country.

Explorer ST Performance Analysis

High-Performance Family SUV

The Explorer ST represents Ford's most ambitious attempt to combine family SUV practicality with genuine high-performance capability. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, creating acceleration that rivals luxury performance SUVs while maintaining seven-passenger seating and 5,600-pound towing capability.

ST-specific chassis tuning includes sport-calibrated suspension, performance tires, and enhanced stability control that create handling characteristics uncommon in three-row SUVs. The result is a vehicle that can confidently navigate winding roads while still providing the comfort and utility expected for family use.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2025 Explorer is available in multiple trim levels, each offering different features and equipment. The base model starts at the lower end of the $38,000 - $58,000 range and includes essential features, while higher trims add luxury amenities, advanced technology, and performance upgrades.

Value-conscious buyers will find the mid-level trims offer the best balance of features and price, while those seeking maximum capability or luxury should explore the top-tier options.

Three-Row SUV Performance Comparison

Performance-Oriented Family SUV Analysis

Performance Leadership: The Explorer offers the most powerful engine options in the mainstream three-row segment, with the ST variant providing genuine sports car acceleration in a family SUV package. The rear-wheel-drive architecture creates driving dynamics that front-wheel-drive competitors cannot match.

Towing Capability: While not the absolute leader in towing capacity, the Explorer's 5,600-pound rating combined with RWD stability makes it ideal for families with boats, travel trailers, or recreational equipment. The sophisticated towing integration includes trailer backup assist and comprehensive monitoring systems.

Against Honda Pilot: The Explorer offers superior performance and towing capability with rear-wheel-drive advantages, while the Pilot provides better fuel economy and Honda's reliability reputation. The Explorer appeals more to performance-oriented families.

Family Ownership and Value Analysis

Total Cost of Family Ownership

The Explorer's performance focus results in higher fuel costs compared to efficiency-oriented competitors, though the capability advantages justify the expense for families who prioritize towing, performance, and driving engagement. The extensive Ford dealer network provides convenient service access nationwide.

Detailed Performance and Driving Dynamics

EcoBoost Engine Performance Analysis

The 2025 Explorer's EcoBoost engines provide refined power delivery that prioritizes performance and capability over maximum efficiency. The base 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with strong low-end power delivery that makes family hauling effortless. The engine's turbocharged design provides excellent torque characteristics that work well for both daily driving and towing applications.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost's character emphasizes strong mid-range power delivery that makes acceleration smooth and predictable, while the turbo system provides excellent response across the entire rev range. The engine provides adequate performance for highway driving and family hauling while maintaining reasonable fuel economy for a large SUV. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to drive in various conditions while providing confident acceleration and highway merging capability.

V6 EcoBoost Excellence

The available 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 transforms the Explorer's performance character significantly, delivering 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque that provide genuinely quick acceleration and confident towing capability. The V6's power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it easy to control in various driving conditions while providing confident acceleration and highway merging capability. The engine's calibration prioritizes performance during acceleration while providing adequate efficiency for highway cruising.

The Explorer ST variant's 400 horsepower creates sports car-like acceleration in a family SUV package, with 0-60 mph times of just 5.2 seconds. The ST's power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it easy to control in various driving conditions while providing confident acceleration and highway merging capability. The engine's calibration prioritizes maximum performance while maintaining the reliability and durability expected in a family vehicle.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission has been specifically calibrated for SUV comfort and performance, providing smooth, imperceptible shifts that enhance the family driving experience. The transmission includes multiple driving modes that adjust shift timing and throttle response to match different driving preferences and conditions. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides seamless power delivery without the harsh shifts that can detract from family experiences.

The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system can distribute power between front and rear axles while also providing side-to-side torque distribution through the rear differential. The system includes multiple terrain modes that adjust system behavior for different surfaces, while the system operates seamlessly during normal driving to provide enhanced traction without efficiency penalties. The system's operation is refined and provides excellent traction in various conditions while maintaining the smooth, refined driving experience that defines the Explorer's character.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

SYNC 4A Infotainment System

The 2025 Explorer features one of the most advanced infotainment systems in the three-row SUV segment, with either a 10.1-inch or available 12-inch touchscreen display that provides comprehensive functionality with intuitive operation. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity without cables. The interface is well-organized with logical menu structures that minimize driver distraction while providing access to all vehicle functions.

The system's voice recognition capabilities allow hands-free operation of many functions, which is particularly valuable when driving in traffic or on highways. The available navigation system provides detailed mapping with real-time traffic information and route optimization. The system can store multiple destinations and provides turn-by-turn directions with clear visual and audio guidance for family travel and work applications.

Connectivity and Smart Features

The Explorer includes comprehensive connectivity features including multiple USB charging ports, wireless charging pad, and Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices. The available FordPass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot provides internet connectivity for passengers during longer trips, while the FordPass app provides remote access to vehicle functions including remote start, door lock/unlock, and vehicle status monitoring. The app can provide real-time fuel level, tire pressure, and maintenance reminders, helping owners stay on top of vehicle care and planning.

The available Digital Key feature allows drivers to use their smartphone as a key, providing convenience and security for modern family vehicle ownership. The system includes key sharing capabilities that allow owners to grant temporary access to family members or service providers without providing physical keys. The system's security features ensure that access can be revoked remotely if needed, providing peace of mind during family use.

Advanced Driver Assistance Technology

The Explorer's Ford Co-Pilot360 provides comprehensive safety technologies that operate with sophisticated calibration and minimal false alarms. The Pre-Collision Assist system uses radar and camera technology to detect potential frontal collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. The system includes pedestrian and cyclist detection, providing additional protection in urban environments where these hazards are common.

The Lane Keeping System helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane during highway driving, reducing driver fatigue during long trips. The system includes lane departure warning that alerts drivers when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, while the steering assist provides gentle correction to help keep the vehicle in its lane. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides smooth, natural steering inputs without being intrusive or annoying.

Interior Design and Family Comfort

Interior Design and Material Quality

The Explorer's interior design represents Ford's most successful interpretation of American family SUV functionality, featuring durable materials, practical design, and attention to detail that serves diverse family needs. The cabin design emphasizes horizontal lines, excellent visibility, and logical organization that creates a functional environment without pretentious complexity. The design is elegant and understated, focusing on comfort and functionality rather than ostentatious styling.

The interior design emphasizes horizontal lines and open architecture that creates a sense of spaciousness while providing logical organization for storage and convenience features. The available ambient lighting system provides subtle illumination that enhances the family atmosphere during evening driving, while the available panoramic sunroof brings natural light into the cabin during daytime driving. The interior's attention to detail and material quality creates an environment that feels more expensive than the vehicle's pricing suggests.

Seating and Comfort Features

The Explorer's seating provides exceptional comfort and support for all passengers, with available 10-way power adjustment and memory functions for the driver's seat. The available heated and ventilated front seats provide year-round comfort, while the available heated rear seats provide additional comfort for passengers. The seats' construction provides excellent support during both city driving and highway cruising, with materials that feel substantial and well-finished.

Rear seats offer generous legroom for the segment, with comfortable seating that accommodates adult passengers for longer trips. The available captain's chairs in the second row provide exceptional comfort and convenience with individual armrests, heating, and power adjustment that creates first-class passenger experiences. The captain's chair configuration includes easy walk-through access to the third row, making passenger access more convenient than bench seat alternatives.

Storage and Convenience Features

The Explorer's interior includes numerous storage compartments designed for convenience and functionality, including large door pockets, center console storage, and multiple cup holders throughout the cabin. The available center console includes a large storage bin with USB charging ports, while the available wireless charging pad provides convenient device charging without cables. The cargo area includes multiple tie-down points and a cargo cover for privacy and security.

The available cargo management system includes dividers and organizers that help maximize cargo space utilization for family gear and equipment. The vehicle's storage solutions demonstrate thoughtful design that accommodates modern family lifestyle needs while maintaining the elegant styling that defines the Explorer's character. The power liftgate includes height adjustment and hands-free operation, making it easy to access the cargo area when carrying packages or family equipment.

Safety Technology and Protection

Ford Co-Pilot360 Safety Suite

The Explorer comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes comprehensive safety technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. The Pre-Collision Assist system uses radar and camera technology to detect potential frontal collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. The system includes pedestrian and cyclist detection, providing additional protection in urban environments where these hazards are common.

The Lane Keeping System helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane during highway driving, reducing driver fatigue during long trips. The system includes lane departure warning that alerts drivers when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, while the steering assist provides gentle correction to help keep the vehicle in its lane. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides smooth, natural steering inputs without being intrusive or annoying.

Advanced Safety Features

Available safety features include Blind Spot Information System that provides additional awareness during highway driving and parking maneuvers, while the available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert helps prevent accidents when backing out of parking spaces. The available Active Park Assist helps with parking the large SUV in tight spaces, protecting passengers from potential accidents when maneuvering in challenging situations.

The available 360-degree camera system provides a complete view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. The system includes multiple camera angles that can be selected based on driving conditions, providing confidence during various driving scenarios. The system's display is clear and easy to interpret, helping drivers navigate safely in challenging situations.

Crash Safety and Protection

The Explorer has earned strong safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle's advanced body structure incorporates high-strength steel and aluminum components that provide excellent crash protection while maintaining structural integrity. The five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Good Overall designation reflect excellent crash protection and advanced safety technology integration.

Standard safety equipment includes comprehensive airbag coverage throughout the cabin, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and driver knee airbags. The vehicle's advanced restraint systems work together to provide optimal protection for all occupants during various crash scenarios. The Explorer's safety performance demonstrates Ford's commitment to comprehensive protection across all price points.

Ownership Experience and Long-term Value

Ford Reliability and Quality

Ford's reliability has improved significantly over the past decade, with the current Explorer generation showing good initial quality ratings and fewer reported issues compared to previous models. The advanced CD6 platform and proven EcoBoost powertrains contribute to dependable operation that builds confidence in the Ford brand transformation. The vehicle's construction quality and component selection help minimize maintenance requirements while providing reliable operation over the long term.

Ford's extensive dealer network provides convenient service access throughout the United States, with most dealers offering modern facilities and customer service that enhances the ownership experience. The brand's maintenance schedules are designed to minimize inconvenience for busy families, with most routine service items requiring minimal time and effort. The available extended warranty options provide additional peace of mind for owners who plan to keep their vehicle for many years of family use.

Warranty and Maintenance

All Explorer models come with Ford's standard warranty coverage, including 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. This coverage provides peace of mind for family vehicle buyers during the early years of ownership, while the brand's reputation for quality means that warranty claims are typically minimal. The warranty coverage includes comprehensive protection for AWD systems and performance components that reflects confidence in durability during demanding use.

Ford's warranty coverage includes roadside assistance and trip interruption coverage, providing additional support for owners during unexpected situations during family travel. The brand's customer service is known for being responsive and helpful when issues do arise, while the comprehensive warranty coverage means that most unexpected repair costs are covered during the warranty period. The warranty's comprehensive nature helps offset any concerns about Ford's reliability and provides confidence for long-term ownership.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Ford vehicles, including the Explorer, typically retain their value better than most competitors due to the brand's improved reliability, comprehensive warranty coverage, and strong brand reputation. The combination of advanced technology, comprehensive warranty, and proven reliability makes the Explorer an attractive option for buyers concerned about long-term ownership costs and resale value. The vehicle's strong resale values help offset the initial purchase price over time, making it an excellent long-term investment for family vehicle buyers.

The Explorer's comprehensive feature content and proven reliability help maintain its appeal in the used car market, providing additional value when it's time to upgrade to a newer model. The vehicle's performance features and comprehensive warranty create strong demand in the pre-owned market, while the vehicle's strong resale values demonstrate the market's confidence in Ford's quality and reliability improvements.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

Fuel Economy and Emissions

The Explorer's fuel economy ratings vary by engine, with the base 2.3-liter EcoBoost achieving 21/28 mpg city/highway, the 3.0-liter V6 achieving 18/24 mpg, and the ST variant achieving 17/23 mpg. The vehicle's performance focus results in lower efficiency than some competitors, but the capability advantages justify the expense for families who prioritize towing, performance, and driving engagement. The engine's calibration prioritizes performance during acceleration while providing adequate efficiency for highway cruising.

The vehicle's emissions ratings meet current federal standards, and the engine management systems help minimize environmental impact. The Explorer's design philosophy emphasizes capability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime. The vehicle's construction uses high-strength steel and aluminum components that are both lightweight and recyclable, contributing to the vehicle's overall environmental efficiency.

Sustainable Manufacturing

Ford's commitment to sustainable manufacturing includes the use of recycled materials in various components and efficient production processes that minimize waste. The Explorer's construction uses high-strength steel and aluminum components that are both lightweight and recyclable, contributing to the vehicle's overall environmental efficiency. The brand's manufacturing facilities implement energy-efficient processes and waste reduction programs, while the vehicle's design philosophy emphasizes durability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime.

The vehicle's design philosophy emphasizes durability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime. The EcoBoost engine's proven reliability means that owners can expect years of efficient operation with minimal environmental impact. The brand's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vehicle to include renewable energy partnerships and carbon-neutral manufacturing goals, demonstrating Ford's commitment to environmental responsibility throughout the vehicle's lifecycle.

Final Performance SUV Verdict

The 2025 Ford Explorer earns our enthusiastic recommendation with an 8.4/10 rating for families who prioritize performance, capability, and American SUV heritage over maximum efficiency. Ford has created the most performance-oriented three-row SUV in the mainstream market, providing capabilities that efficiency-focused competitors cannot match while maintaining the family functionality that defines the segment.

The Explorer excels for active families who need towing capability, performance enthusiasts who want family practicality, and buyers who appreciate rear-wheel-drive dynamics in a three-row package. The ST variant provides unique high-performance capability that no competitor offers at comparable pricing.

Perfect For: Performance-oriented families, buyers needing towing capability, families who prioritize driving engagement, and anyone wanting American SUV capability with modern technology.

Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize maximum fuel economy, prefer Japanese reliability reputation, need lower pricing above other considerations, or want hybrid efficiency options.