If you’re shopping for a three-row family SUV with a wild side, both the 2025 Ford Explorer and 2024 Ford Explorer definitely qualify! But which should you choose? Our buying guide helps you get to know the differences between model years.
Key Takeaways
- There’s a new list of Explorer trim models for 2025 — the base Active, snazzy ST-Line, posh Platinum, and sport-tuned ST.
- Engine options haven’t changed between these two model years. The 2025 Explorer still delivers up to 400 horsepower!
- With an all-new infotainment system and longer list of safety aids, the 2025 Explorer is smarter than ever.
- The price of the 2025 Ford Explorer (from $39,755) is a little more expensive than the 2024 Ford Explorer (starting at $36,860).
Interior Comfort
The new Explorer trim lineup is big on comfort! Choose from four options — the Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST — all of which treat you to three-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. As you move up the trim levels, more interior luxury is available, including features like massaging front seats and premium leather upholstery!
For 2024, the Explorer offers eight trim models: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. These SUVs also do a great job keeping you comfortable, with standard three-zone automatic climate control and a power liftgate. Heated front seats are optional, however, along with available upgrades like ambient interior lighting and leather seating.
Modern Performance
When it comes to performance, both Explorers can handle just about anything the Michigan roads — and off-road terrain — can throw their way! Unlike most other crossover SUVs, the Explorer comes standard with sporty rear-wheel drive, enhancing handling and towing capabilities (which reach 5,600 pounds). All-wheel drive is available to enhance your family adventures, boosting traction to help you travel through rugged terrain.
The new Explorer’s engine options haven’t changed, but availability is different. Most 2025 Explorers come standard with the base engine, but the twin-turbo V6 is optional for the luxurious Platinum and standard on the sport ST. For 2024, the base engine is standard on lower trims, while the more powerful V6 is standard on the ST, Platinum, and King Ranch.
Ford Explorer Platinum Powertrain Specs
- Standard turbo 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Optional twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
On-Road Technology
Some of the 2025 Ford Explorer’s biggest changes went down in the technology department. Every trim model comes standard with the all-new Ford Digital Experience, an infotainment setup that includes a 13.2-inch central touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system’s Google-based software also delivers Google Assistant voice controls and Google Maps navigation, making your road trips as stress-free as possible! The 2025 Explorer also comes standard with more safety aids, adding adaptive cruise control, intersection collision mitigation, and evasive steering assistance to every trim. Plus, Ford’s hands-free driving system, BlueCruise, is newly optional for all but the base trim model.
Back on the 2024 Ford Explorer, the basic infotainment setup includes SYNC 4 technology, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 8-inch central touchscreen. The Ford Co-Pilot360 driver safety package is standard, equipping every model with forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assist.
Starting Price: 2025 vs. 2024 Explorer
Compared to the 2024 Ford Explorer (starting at $36,860), the price of the 2025 Ford Explorer (from $39,755) has gone up. But considering how many features are now standard — including the all-new infotainment system — that’s to be expected! If you ask us, the updated Explorer is well worth the price.
Your New Ford Explorer
Now that you’ve learned more about the 2025 Ford Explorer changes compared to 2024, you can make an informed decision! To treat your family to all the latest in infotainment and safety upgrades, choose the latest version of this midsize SUV. On the other hand, if you don’t mind missing out, last year’s model can help you keep costs down. On the fence? Visit us at Lunghamer Ford in Owosso, MI, to get to know both three-row SUVs!