Key Takeaways
- The Explorer remains one of the best-selling three-row SUVs with available rear-wheel drive, strong towing capability, and a spacious third row
- Powertrain: 2.3L EcoBoost turbo I4, 300 hp (3.0L EcoBoost V6: 400 hp), achieving 26 combined mpg
- Starting MSRP around $39,000 — positioned against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade
- New for 2025: Available BlueCruise hands-free driving, updated SYNC 4, new Platinum model
- Our pick: XLT for value; ST for the 400-hp twin-turbo V6 experience
Overview
The Explorer remains one of the best-selling three-row SUVs with available rear-wheel drive, strong towing capability, and a spacious third row. The Explorer enters 2025 with meaningful updates: available bluecruise hands-free driving, updated sync 4, new platinum model. In a three-row midsize SUV segment that's never been more competitive, the Ford Explorer distinguishes itself through a specific combination of qualities that its competitors can't quite replicate.
Starting around $39,000, the Explorer competes directly against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade. Each of those competitors brings genuine strengths to the table, but the Explorer carves out its own niche by delivering The Explorer remains one of the best-selling three-row SUVs with available rear-wheel drive. Whether that resonates with you depends on what you prioritize in a three-row midsize SUV.
What's New for 2025
Available BlueCruise hands-free driving, updated SYNC 4, new Platinum model. These aren't just checkbox updates — Ford has addressed real owner feedback and competitive gaps with these changes. The result is a Explorer that feels more complete and contemporary than the outgoing model in ways you'll notice daily.
Powertrain and Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Explorer runs 2.3L EcoBoost turbo I4, 300 hp (3.0L EcoBoost V6: 400 hp). In practice, this powertrain delivers smooth, predictable power for daily driving with enough reserve for confident highway merging and mountain passes. The transmission calibration prioritizes smoothness over sportiness in normal driving, saving the sharper responses for when you request them.
Fuel economy lands at 26 combined — competitive for the three-row midsize SUV segment and achievable in real-world driving without hypermiling techniques. On a mixed highway/city commute, expect numbers close to the EPA estimate, which is more than some competitors can claim.
The chassis tuning strikes a balance between comfort and control. Road imperfections are absorbed without harshness, while highway stability inspires confidence at speed. The steering is well-weighted with a natural on-center feel. Body roll is managed well through sweeping highway ramps and parking lot maneuvers. This isn't a sports car, but the Explorer never feels sloppy or disconnected.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Explorer presents a cabin that reflects Ford's current design philosophy. Materials quality is appropriate for the $39,000 price point — you'll find soft-touch surfaces where your hands naturally rest, and the overall assembly quality suggests this cabin will hold up well over years of daily use. The driver's seat offers good support for commutes and road trips, with enough adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body types.
The infotainment system centers on a touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Response times are acceptable, menu structures are logical, and the most-used functions are accessible within one or two taps. A physical volume knob is present — a small detail that matters more than you'd think in daily driving.
Rear-seat space is competitive for the three-row midsize SUV segment. Two adults can ride comfortably on typical trips, and the rear doors open wide enough for easy child seat installation. Cargo space handles the daily demands of this vehicle's likely buyers — grocery runs, weekend gear, and occasional larger items with the rear seats folded.
Technology and Safety
Standard equipment includes Ford's latest driver-assistance suite: automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist with lane centering, adaptive cruise control that works in stop-and-go traffic, and automatic high beams. These systems work unobtrusively in daily driving, providing a genuine safety net without constant false alerts or aggressive interventions.
Available technology upgrades include a larger touchscreen, premium audio, wireless charging, a head-up display, and enhanced surround-view camera. Higher trims add features like ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, and additional USB charging ports for rear passengers. Over-the-air updates keep the software current without dealer visits.
Pricing, Trims, and Value
The Explorer lineup starts around $39,000 for the base trim, which comes well-equipped with the full safety suite, smartphone integration, and modern infotainment. Mid-range trims add comfort and convenience features that most buyers will want — heated seats, a power liftgate (on SUVs), and upgraded audio typically live in this range.
Against the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, the Explorer holds its own on features per dollar. The key question isn't whether the Explorer is a good value — it is — but whether its specific blend of strengths aligns with your priorities.
Our recommendation: XLT for value; ST for the 400-hp twin-turbo V6 experience. This configuration hits the sweet spot of features, capability, and price, delivering the core Explorer experience without pushing into diminishing-returns territory at the top of the lineup.
How It Compares
The three-row midsize SUV segment is stacked with strong competitors. Here's how the Explorer stacks up against its main rivals:
Against the Toyota Highlander: the Explorer offers better value and reliability, while the Toyota Highlander counters with its own set of strengths. Cross-shop both before deciding.
Against the Honda Pilot: different strengths play to different buyer priorities. Test drive both and see which cabin, driving feel, and feature set resonate with your daily needs.
Verdict
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a well-executed three-row midsize SUV that earns its place on any buyer's short list. The Explorer remains one of the best-selling three-row SUVs with available rear-wheel drive, strong towing capability, and a spacious third row. That's a specific, compelling argument that not every competitor can match.
Buy the Explorer if you value what Ford does best and want a three-row midsize SUV that handles daily life with competence and character. The XLT trim delivers the core experience.
Look elsewhere if you prioritize maximum sportiness (cross-shop the Toyota Highlander), the absolute lowest price in the segment, or a fundamentally different set of priorities than what the Explorer offers.