The Ford Explorer has been a mainstay in the SUV market for decades, a familiar nameplate for families across America. However, in an increasingly competitive midsize SUV segment, standing still is falling behind. As a seasoned auto expert, I’ve observed the Explorer’s journey, noting its strengths and areas needing refinement. The refreshed 2025 Ford Explorer arrives promising to address past criticisms and reassert its position. This review dives into whether Ford has successfully revitalized this iconic SUV, focusing on key updates and delivering a comprehensive Ford Explorer review for prospective buyers.
Ford’s design team in Dearborn has clearly been hard at work, and the most immediately noticeable change in the 2025 Explorer is its interior. Stepping inside, the cabin feels significantly more modern and user-friendly. Gone are the dated ergonomics and less premium materials that plagued previous iterations. The centerpiece is a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen, dominating the dashboard and signaling a serious leap forward in in-car technology.
Beyond the screen size, the thoughtfulness of the interior design shines through in details like the integrated phone cubby below the screen. This simple yet effective solution, featuring a wireless charging pad on one side and regular storage on the other, addresses a common driver frustration – where to safely and conveniently place a smartphone. It’s a testament to Ford’s attention to everyday usability, a crucial aspect for any family SUV.
The tech upgrades in the 2025 Explorer are not just skin deep. Ford has embraced Android Automotive, embedding a full operating system within the vehicle. This is a significant departure from simple smartphone mirroring. Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store are all seamlessly integrated. Users can download apps like Waze directly to the Explorer, offering a level of in-car connectivity and customization previously unseen in this segment. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain available for those who prefer them, Ford’s bet on Google’s ecosystem positions the Explorer as a tech leader in its class. The long-term consumer adoption and developer support for this system will be key to its ultimate success.
Under the hood, the 2025 Explorer offers familiar yet refined engine choices. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, proving surprisingly capable in moving this three-row SUV. For those seeking more robust performance, the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 remains the powerhouse option, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower. This V6 transforms the Explorer into a genuinely quick and engaging SUV to drive, a notable highlight in the family vehicle category.
On the road, the driving experience of the 2025 Explorer is a mixed bag, leaning towards positive. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine delivers adequate power for most driving situations, but it can become somewhat noisy under harder acceleration. Road noise is present, particularly with sportier tire packages, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing a supremely quiet cabin. However, the engine does have a pleasant exhaust note, and turning up the audio system effectively mitigates road noise concerns.
A standout feature enhancing the driving experience is the inclusion of Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system. While not full autonomy, BlueCruise allows for hands-off driving on pre-mapped highways, managing steering and speed. The system utilizes driver monitoring to ensure attentiveness, but it significantly reduces driver fatigue during long highway drives and commutes. This technology elevates the Explorer’s appeal for families who frequently undertake road trips.
Practicality remains a core strength of the Ford Explorer. Seating for up to seven passengers, although the third row is best suited for children or shorter trips for adults, coupled with ample cargo space, makes it a versatile family hauler. Multiple drive modes, including settings for light off-road adventures, further enhance its adaptability for various lifestyles, from daily school runs to weekend camping excursions.
Pricing for the 2025 Ford Explorer starts around $41,000 for the base model and can reach upwards of $60,000 for the top-tier Platinum trim. This positions it squarely against competitors like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. While the Korean rivals offer strong value propositions, particularly with longer warranties, the Explorer counters with its more potent performance engine options and the advanced technology suite, especially the Android Automotive integration and BlueCruise. The competition in this segment is fierce, but the updated Explorer is now a much stronger contender than its predecessor was against these rivals.
In conclusion, the 2025 Ford Explorer is not a complete overhaul, but a well-executed refresh that addresses key weaknesses of the previous generation while building on its established strengths. The enhanced interior, class-leading technology with Android Automotive and BlueCruise, and powerful engine options make it a compelling choice in the midsize SUV segment. While road noise could be better controlled and the higher trims come at a premium, the overall package represents a significant step forward for the Explorer. For families seeking a versatile, tech-forward SUV that can handle daily life and weekend adventures, the 2025 Ford Explorer warrants serious consideration. This Ford Explorer review highlights a vehicle that is not just resting on its laurels but actively evolving to meet the demands of modern SUV buyers.
Ford’s commitment to the Explorer, with over 8 million units sold, is evident in this refresh. The 2025 model demonstrates that the Explorer is adapting to the changing automotive landscape, embracing technology and performance while maintaining its core practicality. It signals a new chapter for this venerable SUV, proving that even established nameplates can innovate and lead in a competitive market.
