Is the 2025 Ford Explorer Worth It for Families and Drivers?

The 2025 Ford Explorer arrives with a refreshed design, expanded trim choices, and a stronger focus on interior quality. Ford has crafted the lineup to appeal to a wide audience, from families who need comfort and space to enthusiasts who want serious performance. The SUV delivers impressive acceleration in the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, premium refinement in the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum, and affordability with the 2025 Ford Explorer Active. While third-row seating remains better suited for children and the fuel economy is not class-leading, the Explorer’s versatility and value continue to make it a standout in the midsize SUV category.

Big SUV, Big Choices: The 2025 Ford Explorer Lineup

The 2025 Ford Explorer builds on decades of success as one of America’s most popular three-row SUVs. For this model year, Ford adjusted its strategy to make each trim more distinct. The 2025 Ford Explorer Active focuses on families seeking comfort, technology, and affordability. Drivers with a passion for performance will be drawn to the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, while the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum offers an upscale cabin and near-luxury amenities.

The Explorer also sits alongside the larger 2025 Ford Expedition in Ford’s SUV lineup, offering a middle ground between size and maneuverability. With the 2026 Ford Explorer expected to push hybrid powertrains further, the 2025 edition represents a strong mix of practicality, value, and performance.

Under The Hood: Performance And The ST Experience

Performance continues to be a major draw for the Explorer. The 2025 Ford Explorer ST leads the pack with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing over 400 horsepower. Independent testing shows the 2025 Ford Explorer ST 0-60 time is around 5.5 seconds, which is impressive for a three-row SUV. This puts it in the same conversation as sportier models like the Dodge Durango R/T and even some entry-level luxury crossovers.

The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder remains a solid choice for buyers who want balanced power and efficiency. It delivers strong highway performance while still maintaining good towing ability. By offering different powertrains, Ford ensures that buyers can match the Explorer to their lifestyle needs.

And It Corners, Too! Handling And Ride Quality

Despite its size, the Explorer is more agile than many of its competitors. The 2025 Ford Explorer ST comes with a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and performance tires that give it a confident feel in corners. It stays composed on highways and provides reassuring stability during spirited driving.

For families, trims like the 2025 Ford Explorer Active deliver a smooth and comfortable ride. Ford designed the suspension to strike a balance—firm enough to inspire confidence but soft enough to soak up everyday bumps. Compared with the larger 2025 Ford Expedition, the Explorer feels easier to maneuver in both urban and suburban settings.

What’s Inside The Box: 2025 Ford Explorer Interior

Inside, the 2025 Ford Explorer Interior shows one of the most meaningful updates. The cabin now features improved materials, a cleaner layout, and updated technology. The dashboard houses a wide touchscreen running Ford’s latest infotainment software, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims such as the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum elevate the experience further with quilted leather upholstery, premium accents, and a panoramic sunroof.

Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. Families benefit from multiple USB-C ports across all rows, fold-flat seating for cargo versatility, and quieter cabin insulation. While the third row is still tight for taller passengers, it works well for children or short trips with adults.

Practicality Meets Technology

The Explorer’s blend of technology and practicality is one of its biggest strengths. Standard safety features include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Ford’s available BlueCruise hands-free driving system adds another layer of convenience for long highway drives.

The 2025 Ford Explorer Active trim is particularly appealing to families who want advanced safety and comfort features without stretching the budget. Cargo space is generous, and with optional all-wheel drive, the SUV handles snowy commutes and weekend adventures with ease.

Value And Comparisons

Price remains a competitive advantage for the Explorer. The Explorer Active enters the market in the mid-$40,000s, offering strong value compared to rivals. The Explorer Platinum, with its premium finishes and tech features, stays below many luxury-branded alternatives.

Within Ford’s lineup, the 2025 Ford Expedition offers more towing and passenger space but at a significantly higher price. The Explorer finds its sweet spot as a more maneuverable and affordable option. Looking ahead, the 2026 Ford Explorer is expected to bring more electrification, but the 2025 model remains a smart buy for those wanting a balance of current features and cost efficiency.

If You Love To Drive And Love Your Family …

The 2025 Ford Explorer stands out because it doesn’t force buyers to choose between excitement and practicality. The Ford Explorer ST offers thrilling acceleration and agile handling that enthusiasts will appreciate, while the Ford Explorer Active provides the everyday usability families need. For those who want luxury touches without luxury-brand pricing, the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum makes an excellent choice.

This mix of performance, comfort, and versatility ensures the Explorer remains one of the most compelling three-row SUVs on the market. It’s an SUV for drivers who love the experience of the road but also need the functionality to handle family life.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Ford Explorer is designed for versatility. Whether you choose the efficiency and value of the Ford Explorer Active, the thrilling performance of the Ford Explorer ST, or the premium refinement of the Ford Explorer Platinum, the lineup offers something for nearly every type of buyer. With a refreshed interior, stronger tech, and a performance edge over many rivals, the Explorer continues to uphold its reputation as one of Ford’s most important SUVs.

As the 2026 Ford Explorer approaches, the 2025 model strikes an ideal balance of affordability and modern features. For families and driving enthusiasts alike, it remains one of the best-rounded SUVs available today.

If you’re comparing options, check out our detailed review of the 2025 Chevy Equinox to see how it stacks up against the Explorer.

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