The 2025 Ford Explorer mixes smarter tech and some thoughtful refinements. Over at Hyundai, the Palisade holds steady with what’s already working. If you’ve been trying to decide between two of the best midsize SUVs for 2025, this side-by-side breakdown makes it easier to choose the one that fits your priorities.
Key Takeaways
- Explorer pricing ranges from $41,380 to $55,835, while the Palisade runs from $38,675 to $55,975. Prices effective July 2, 2025.
- Ford focuses on refreshing tech and streamlining its trim lineup. Hyundai added just a few minor updates.
- The Explorer edges out the Palisade in fuel efficiency.
- The Explorer has two engine options compared to the Palisade's one.
2025 Explorer vs. Palisade Trim Updates and Pricing
Ford didn’t overhaul the Explorer this year, but it did fine-tune a few things. Every 2025 model now comes standard with BlueCruise hands-free driving, and Ford’s new Digital Experience system brings Google Assistant, integrated streaming, and smarter navigation. The exterior also gets a light update, with fresh grille work and revised lighting that modernizes the Explorer's look.
Prices are:
- Active: $41,380
- ST-Line: $46,190
- Tremor (arriving later): around $52,000
- Platinum: $53,695
- ST: $55,835
The Palisade is mostly unchanged, although Hyundai introduced a new SEL Premium trim to replace last year’s optional Premium package. The automaker also added a surround-view camera and parking sensors as standard on the XRT. Here’s how the Palisade lineup stacks up:
- SE: $38,675
- SEL: $41,425
- XRT: $44,525
- SEL Premium: $46,025
- Limited: $50,075
- Calligraphy: $52,475
- Calligraphy Night Edition: $55,975
2025 Explorer vs. Palisade Engine Power and Performance
The Explorer gives you two engine options. Most trims run on a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, giving 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Platinum and ST trims step it up with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. You can pair either engine with rear- or all-wheel drive. Both mate with a 10-speed automatic.
Every Palisade trim uses a 3.8-liter V6 with 291 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard, but most trims offer available all-wheel drive. The only model that includes AWD by default is the top-of-the-line Calligraphy Night Edition.
Which SUV Is More Comfortable?
The 2025 Explorer benefits from updated materials and new color options that lend it a more premium vibe. The front cabin feels more spacious this year, and accessing the third row is easier—just press a button and the second-row seats slide forward automatically.
The Palisade leans more into the upscale look, with soft-touch surfaces, a clean design, and clever storage options. It comes standard with bench seats in the second row, offering space for eight passengers, but most trims let you swap in captain’s chairs for a cozier seven-seat layout. Like the Explorer, there’s also a push-button function that helps passengers access the third row.
So, Which SUV Should You Drive Home?
If you want more engine options and better gas mileage, the 2025 Ford Explorer wins the competition, hands down.
Ready to see how it handles in person? Come in for a test drive and experience it firsthand. We'll be waiting for you!