– The 2025 Ford Explorer boasts an improved interior with premium materials and a better overall finish.

– Two engine options provide solid performance, with the ST trim offering a powerful twin-turbo V6.

– The lack of electrification is a drawback, especially in a market leaning towards hybrids and EVs.

The Ford Explorer has long been a staple of the SUV world, and in many ways, it’s the vehicle that shaped the SUV landscape as we know it today. Since its introduction in 1990, over eight million Explorers have rolled off the assembly line. If you think back to the late 80s and early ’90s, there weren’t many family-oriented SUVs that could also handle urban environments. The Explorer filled that gap, and here we are, six generations later, and Ford’s midsize SUV is still highly relevant.

2025 Ford Explorer | Photo: Matt St-Pierre

Now in its sixth generation, which debuted in 2020, the Explorer continues to evolve, albeit subtly. For 2025, Ford has given it a mild facelift—nothing too radical, but enough to keep it fresh. The most significant changes are found within, and let’s just say Ford has finally addressed one of my long-standing complaints about their vehicles: the interior quality.

Subtle Exterior Tweaks

From the outside, the 2025 Ford Explorer doesn’t look all that different from the outgoing model. It’s easy to mistake it for the 2024 version at a glance. But if you look closely, you’ll notice some changes. The grille is slightly taller, the headlights have been reworked, and new trim accents, including gloss black finishes, give it a sportier vibe. New wheel designs are part of the package, too, with the 21-inch wheels on the ST trim looking particularly sharp.

At the rear, the taillights are now connected by a light bar, a design trend that’s all the rage. It’s a nice touch that modernizes the look but nothing groundbreaking. Overall, the Explorer’s styling still holds up well, though it’s not quite as eye-catching as some of its rivals like the Mazda CX-90.

Complete Interior Overhaul

Now, let’s talk about the interior—this is where Ford has made some real strides. I’ve been critical of Ford’s interiors, often citing subpar materials and uninspired design. But the 2025 Explorer changes that. The cabin looks and feels much more premium, with soft-touch materials in all the right places. The door panels, dash, and centre console have been reworked, and the overall fit and finish are miles ahead of what I expect from Ford.

The seats are comfortable and provide good support, and you can opt for either a six- or seven-seat configuration, even in the base trims. The six-seat option with captain’s chairs is a rare feature for a base model in this segment, giving the Explorer a slight edge for families looking for more flexibility. However, the third row is still tight, and while it’s okay for younger kids, adults won’t spend very long on trips.

Tech-wise, the Explorer is well-equipped. The new base “Active” trim has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch touchscreen, both responsive and easy to use. The infotainment system is also quite intuitive. Also standard are adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and AWD – overall, the value proposition is decent at $50,535.

Ford’s decision to offer BlueCruise (their hands-free driving assist) in three trims (ST-Line, Platinum, and ST) is a nice touch. However, it is finickier than similar systems from competitors like GM or Hyundai.

Driving Impressions: Two Different Flavours

The 2025 Explorer offers two engine options, and I had the chance to experience both. The ST-Line has a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For most people, this engine will be more than adequate. It’s responsive, offers decent fuel economy, and provides enough power for everyday driving.

But if you’re after something with more punch, the $69,135 ST trim is where it’s at, and it shows that 50% of all new Explorers sold in Canada bear the badge. Powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, the ST produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It’s noticeably quicker than the four-cylinder, and while fuel consumption takes a hit (about 40% higher in my experience), the trade-off in performance is worth it if you enjoy a spirited drive.

Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission reprogrammed to smooth out some of the turbo lag that plagued earlier versions. It’s not perfect, but it’s better, and for most drivers, it’ll go unnoticed. The ride quality, even on the 21-inch wheels of the ST, is surprisingly good. Over Quebec’s notoriously rough road conditions, the Explorer handled bumps and cracks without much fuss, and overall comfort was impressive.

What’s Missing? Electrification

Here’s where the Explorer falls short for me: no electrified powertrain option exists. Ford used to offer a hybrid Explorer, but for reasons unknown, it’s no longer available. In a segment and market that are seeking out electrified options, this seems like a missed opportunity. Sure, Ford has been aggressive with their electrified lineup (think Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, hybrids and PHEVs), but the Explorer remains left out. With competitors like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and even the all-electric Kia EV9 in the mix, Ford needs to step up its game to stay competitive in the long run.

Regardless, the 2025 Ford Explorer is still a solid choice in the midsize SUV segment. It’s comfortable, well-equipped, and offers decent performance across its lineup. The interior improvements are a welcome upgrade, and the overall driving experience is satisfying. However, the lack of electrification is hard to ignore, especially as more consumers seek greener alternatives.

The Explorer is worth considering if you’re in the market for a traditional, gas-powered SUV with a spacious interior and a smooth ride. But if you’re leaning toward something more future-proof, options like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid or Kia EV9 might be more appealing.