With the 2025 Explorer on dealership lots, you may wonder if the 2025 is really worth it when compared to last year's SUV. That’s what we’re here to help you figure out. Here are some Ford Explorer changes for the 2025 model year.
Key takeaways
- Both Explorer models share the same engine, with the newer model coming with less trims, giving you even better features in return.
- Some new tech for the Ford brand joins the Explorer, making owners of the 2025 some of the first to hit the road with it.
- The Explorer is able to tow 5,600 pounds, making this the best trim for those who want both comfort, looks, and utility. Perfect for the average working man.
Is the Ford Explorer changing in 2025?
For 2025, the Explorer sees the number of trims get reduced to 4. This was done to cut back on bloat and spread some features around more evenly. The front fascia also sees some change. You can look for a new grille, headlights, and lower air inlets, while the rear gets new taillights.
If you get a higher end trim, you can look for a new black-painted roof option. This year the lineup also sees BlueCruise Hands-free driving. This lets you tackle the roads of America with ease.
The interior also comes with some changes. You can look for new soft-touch surfaces on the center console and door panels and new color schemes. This was done to give it a better look while being more comfortable.
This year also sees the addition of the Ford Digital Experience. Not just new to the Explorer, but new to the brand as a whole. This lets you use your favorite apps as well as has native streaming and internet browsing when you’re parked.
How much is a 2025 Ford Explorer?
When looking at the 2025 lineup, there’s 4 trim to pick from. Their prices are:
- Active starting at $39,775
- ST-Line starting at $44,615
- Platinum starting at $55,250
- ST starting at $54,260
While the 2024 lineup looked something like this:
- Explorer base starting at $36,860
- XLT starting at $38,670
- ST-Line starting at $46,455
- Limited starting at $47,520
- Timberline starting at $49,430
- ST starting at $50,105
- King Ranch starting at $54,625
- Platinum starting at $54,770
The 2024 Limited was the trim that was recommended by Car and Driver because its “desirable standard features should suffice” that include “a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, 20-inch wheels, a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, a power-folding third row, and upgraded driver assists such as adaptive cruise control.”
But for 2025, the Limited trim was dropped, making the ST-Line the new Car and Driver recommendation. This is because it “makes the most sense” as it “has the sporty cosmetic features of the ST and keeps the standard 300-hp turbo four-cylinder, but it's also nearly $11K less expensive.”
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
Properly equipped the Explorer can tow 5,600 pounds.
Between 2024, and 2025, nothing really changed for the engine. Both the larger 3.0L EcoBoost V6, and the smaller 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engines are standard depending on the trim level you get.
The smaller 2.3L EcoBoost engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is capable of towing 5,300 pounds. You can also expect to get 24 mpg combined on certain trims.
The larger 3.0L EcoBoost engine produced 400 horsepower, and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine can tow 5,600 pounds. While you get slightly less mileage at 21 mpg, it makes up for it in power.
If you’re wanting something that is snappy and sporty, then you want to look for the 3.0L engine. This is the best for those who are seeking that adrenaline hit, without needing to spend a ton of money.
Summary
While both trims are fairly similar, you can’t go wrong with getting a 2025 being that it comes with better features. But no matter what SUV you decide to buy, we’ll be happy to help. Come see us at Jarrett Ford of Charlotte County today!