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Get Ready to Explore: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Ford Explorer!

The iconic Ford Explorer is back for 2025 with a refreshed look, a smarter interior, and an even more refined driving experience. Whether you're a family looking for a spacious and safe ride, or an adventurer craving capability, the new Explorer has something to boast about. Let's take a closer look at what's new and what each trim level brings to the table!

What's New for 2025?

Platinum reproduction model shown. Available spring 2024.

Ford has given the Explorer a significant refresh, focusing on both style and substance:

  • Striking New Design: The exterior gets a modern makeover with redesigned headlamps, taillamps, and a bold new grille across all trims. You'll definitely notice a more confident and contemporary presence on the road.
  • Next-Level Interior Tech: Step inside, and you'll immediately be greeted by the new Ford Digital Experience system. This impressive infotainment setup features a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. It boasts Google voice recognition, Google Maps integration (which can even display on your instrument cluster!), and the ability to stream videos or play games when parked. Plus, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard, so your smartphone seamlessly integrates.
  • Enhanced Comfort: The interior redesign isn't just about screens. Ford has improved seating materials and added soft-touch surfaces throughout. You'll find features like available heated and ventilated front seats, massaging front seats, and heated second-row seats on certain trims.
  • Standard Towing Package: Good news for those who haul! A previously optional 5,000-pound towing package is now standard across all Explorer models, making it even more capable for your adventures.
  • Available Ford BlueCruise: For true highway driving ease, the 2025 Explorer offers the impressive BlueCruise hands-free highway driver-assist feature on compatible roads. This system can even handle automatic lane changes and in-lane repositioning!
  • Advanced Safety Features: Safety remains a top priority with the Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ suite of driver-assistance features standard on all models. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking.

Engine Choices: Power for Every Journey

Preproduction model shown. Available spring 2024.

The 2025 Explorer offers two robust engine options, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 Engine: This turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers a healthy 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's the standard engine for the Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims, offering a great balance of power and efficiency.
  • 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Engine: For those craving more exhilarating performance, this twin-turbocharged V6 engine churns out an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse is standard on the ST trim and available as an option on the Platinum trim.

All Explorer models come standard with rear-wheel drive, with intelligent all-wheel drive available as an option for enhanced capability in various conditions.

Trim Levels: Find Your Perfect Explorer

The 2025 Ford Explorer lineup has been streamlined to four distinct trim levels, each designed to cater to different preferences and needs:

1. Explorer Active

The Active trim is your entry point into the 2025 Explorer lineup, offering an excellent blend of features and value.

  • Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp)
  • Interior Material: Unique Cloth Seating Surfaces
  • Highlights:
    • Standard Ford Digital Experience with 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
    • Heated front seats.
    • Power liftgate.
    • 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
    • Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ (including Adaptive Cruise Control & Lane Centering).
    • Wheel Options: Standard 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels. Available 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted aluminum wheels and 20-inch Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels.

2. Explorer ST-Line

For those who want a sportier look and feel without jumping to the full ST performance, the ST-Line is an excellent choice.

  • Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp)
  • Interior Material: ActiveX™ Seating Material with Cloth Inserts and Red Stitching
  • Highlights:
    • Sporty exterior accents and a bold mesh grille.
    • 20-inch Ebony Machined-painted aluminum wheels (standard).
    • 10-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®.
    • Ford BlueCruise Equipped (available).
    • Heated second-row seats.
    • Wheel Options: Standard 20-inch Ebony Machined-painted aluminum wheels. Available 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels.

3. Explorer Platinum

The Platinum trim elevates luxury and comfort, offering premium amenities for a refined driving experience.

  • Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp) or available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp)
  • Interior Material: Premium Leather Seating Surfaces with Perforated Inserts and Accent Stitching
  • Highlights:
    • Heated, ventilated, and multicontour front seats with Active Motion® massage.
    • Twin-panel moonroof for an expansive view.
    • 980-watt, 14-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®.
    • Wireless charging pad.
    • Adaptive headlamps.
    • Wheel Options: Standard 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted aluminum wheels. Available 20-inch Polished Aluminum wheels and 21-inch Dark Alloy polished aluminum wheels.

4. Explorer ST

The ST trim is the performance powerhouse of the Explorer lineup, designed for driving enthusiasts who crave exhilaration.

  • Engine: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp)
  • Interior Material: Unique ActiveX™ Seating Material with Miko® Inserts and ST Logo
  • Highlights:
    • Standard 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine.
    • Sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling.
    • 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels (standard).
    • Red-painted performance front and rear brake calipers.
    • Quad chrome exhaust tips for a distinctive look.
    • Third-row PowerFold® fold-flat seat.
    • Wheel Options: Standard 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels.
Preproduction model shown. Available spring 2024.

The 2025 Ford Explorer truly offers a compelling package, combining a stylish refresh with advanced technology, powerful engine options, and a range of trims to suit diverse needs. Get ready to experience the next level of adventure and comfort!

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