Summary:
The 2025 Ford Explorer returns with a facelift, new tech upgrades, and a sportier ST trim that feels like it has a mild identity crisis—in a fun way. Is it a practical family hauler or a performance-driven SUV with an attitude? Well… it’s both. Let’s dig in.

First Impressions: Bold Yet Familiar

The new Ford Explorer doesn’t try to reinvent itself—at least not on the surface. You’ll notice the updated Ford Explorer headlights with a sleeker LED signature, a bolder Explorer car grille (especially striking on the Ford Explorer ST), and subtle tweaks that clean up the body lines.

It still looks like a Ford, no doubt. The black Ford Explorer ST with 21-inch wheels and dual exhausts gives off that “urban muscle” vibe, while the silver Ford Explorer or even the red Ford Explorer trims lean more toward sophisticated suburban style.

Interior: Roomy, Refined, and Captain’s Chair Luxury

Inside, the Ford Explorer interior feels like it was finally designed by people who actually have kids. There’s a new infotainment screen that’s crisp and intuitive, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and enough USB ports to charge a small army.

What I loved most? The Ford Explorer captain’s chairs in the second row. Comfy, supportive, and make access to the third row way easier. The 7 seat Ford Explorer layout is ideal for families needing that flexibility. The third row? Decent for kids, but grown-ups won’t love it on long drives.

You can also opt for the Ford Explorer 5 seater layout if cargo space is more of a priority than passenger count.

Under the Hood: Meet Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Now here’s where it gets fun. If you’re stepping up to the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, be ready. It’s powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 pushing 400 horsepower. Acceleration is quick—V6 Mustang 0-60 levels of quick. Think 5.2 seconds in our test.

This thing isn’t just fast for a family SUV—it’s actually fun. The Explorer ST exhaust note has that Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde exhaust personality. Quiet on idle, but open it up and you get some serious growl. Almost Jekyll and Hyde exhaust loud when you’re in Sport mode. But switch back to Normal and it’s a gentle cruiser again.

Is the Explorer ST AWD? Yes. And that all-wheel-drive system makes a huge difference when you’re driving hard or dealing with sketchy weather.

Ride & Handling: Sporty But Not Harsh

Ford seems to have found a sweet spot with the suspension. The Ford Explorer ST doesn’t bounce you around like a hardcore off-roader, but it’s also not too soft. The steering’s responsive and gives you some confidence in corners. But yes, you will notice the extra weight when pushing it hard.

In comparison, the standard Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer SUV trims are more laid-back. Still confident, still capable—but without the ST’s edgy demeanor.

Features, Tech, and What’s New

• Standard 12.3” digital instrument cluster (finally!)
• Upgraded infotainment (SYNC 5, and it’s faster)
• Wireless charging, 360-camera system
• Co-Pilot360 ADAS suite (lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise, etc.)
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
• Ford Explorer grill now more aggressive in top trims
• Optional panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats

The Ford Explorer facelift for 2025 isn’t drastic, but it’s exactly what was needed to keep it fresh.

Fuel Economy

Let’s be real—this isn’t a hybrid. Expect around 21 MPG city and 28 MPG highway for the standard turbo-4. The Ford Explorer ST with the turbo V6 will drop closer to 18/24 MPG. Not terrible, but don’t expect Harley Sportster MPGlevels of efficiency here.

For a more fuel-efficient SUV with similar space, the Ford Everest 2025 might catch your eye—especially outside the U.S.

How It Compares

• Toyota Fortuner review readers might find the Fortuner more rugged, but the Explorer wins on interior tech and performance.
• Compared to the Ford Everest reviews, the Explorer is more road-focused and ST-tuned, while Everest leans more off-road.
• Still torn? The Honda Accord V6 vs 2.0T crowd might appreciate the Explorer ST’s power-to-weight performance.

Pros & Cons

Real Talk: Things Owners (Really) Say

Just digging through online reviews (yep, the raw, emotional ones tagged with “inurl:review” hate, rage, or dislike)—here’s what people vent about:

• Some say the Explorer ST rides too firm on 21” wheels.
• A few had Ford Explorer turbo reliability concerns after 20k miles (early production issues?).
• There’s light Ford Exploder name-calling—mostly from ex-owners of older models.
• Some folks genuinely “rage” over the lack of a hybrid ST model.

But on the flip side, many rave about the Dr. Jekyll et Mr. Hyde exhaust note and love how “unexpectedly quick” it is for a family hauler.

FAQ: 2025 Ford Explorer

Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Explorers

The 2025 Explorer is the SUV version of a V6 Mustang 0-60 run with family room in the back. It’s not perfect. It drinks gas, gets pricey, and doesn’t have the softest ride. But man, it’s fun. The Explorer ST truly feels like a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde on four wheels—one moment it’s calm, the next it’s a storm.

Whether you’re a suburban parent or just someone who doesn’t want a boring SUV, the Ford Explorer 2025 brings just the right amount of fury and finesse.

Author- Ayush