2025 Ford Explorer: Same Pleasant Explorer, Just Better Executed

Bromont, Quebec—Now in its sixth generation, the Ford Explorer is far removed from the truck-based original that launched in the early 1990s. While catering to North American families is still a top priority of this three-row midsize SUV, it has morphed into a much more sophisticated and sportier vehicle.

According to the automaker, Explorer customers love its size and packaging and don’t necessarily want to turn to slightly larger competitors such as the all-new Toyota Grand Highlander or the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade from South Korea.

• Also: 2025 Ford Explorer is Revised From the Ground Up With Lots of Tech
• Also: Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator to Lose Hybrid Option

Mild Updates Inside and Out

For 2025, the Ford Explorer receives a mid-cycle update that includes a few cosmetic revisions. Most of them can be found up front starting with a prominent mesh grille that’s unique to each trim level. The headlights are new, as well, just like the lower bumper incorporating the fog lights.

New wheel designs in a size of 18, 20 or 21 inches are available to jazz up the side view, which hasn’t really changed otherwise. In the rear, the taillights are revised and now connected by a light strip.

The model lineup has been simplified, too. The base Explorer Active kicks things off with 18-inch rims and delicate chrome accents on the grille. Next up is the ST-Line, which does a more convincing job of emulating the looks of the sporty Explorer ST, but without the performance to match.

Then there’s the Explorer Platinum, full of creature comforts like massaging seats and premium leather. It offers generous content complete with an optional twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 (standard on ST). The top of the pyramid is occupied by the Explorer ST, a true athlete and a customer favourite (nearly half of all Explorer sales in Canada are ST models, Ford told us).

While changes to the exterior are relatively subtle, the interior updates are more striking. Several hard plastics have been replaced by nicer materials, including on the door panels and centre console. The dashboard is completely redesigned, switching from a vertical touchscreen to a horizontal display in a size of 13.2 inches. The latter is flanked by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. All 2025 Explorer models feature this combination as standard, by the way.

The integration of Google makes life easier for drivers. For instance, you can have Google Maps navigation on either screen, while the Google Assistant enables voice control of select vehicle functions such as setting cabin temperature or searching for information.

The digital stuff really impresses, including popular services and apps like Alexa, Google Play, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio. As if that wasn’t enough, occupants can also stream videos on YouTube or browse the web using available Vivaldi or Google Chrome. On that note, Ford is going to offer an optional Bluetooth keyboard to make typing easier. Another possibility is to play video games (using compatible wireless controllers) by selecting from a growing list of games available on Google Play, including a Ford-exclusive version of racing game Asphalt Nitro 2. Pretty cool, isn’t it?

The Evolution of Blue Cruise

The media drive event started on the south shore of Montreal at Quartier Dix-30 in Brossard and took us to beautiful Bromont via Highway 10. It proved to be an ideal opportunity to test version 1.2 of Blue Cruise, the operation of which is limited to major roads across North America.

After two unsuccessful tries, the semi-automated system finally engaged and took over driving duties. Whether negotiating a corner or automatically changing lanes when a turn signal is activated, Blue Cruise worked great most of the time. However, just a few seconds of distraction were enough to set off a warning on the instrument panel and require the driver to intervene. Frankly, that was disappointing. Too bad the Explorer doesn’t get Blue Cruise 1.4 as found in the freshly introduced 2025 Expedition, which is more advanced and apparently smoother in its decision making.

The second part of the drive event took place on tighter and twistier roads near Bromont. Ford also had us drive up to the top of the mountain on a mix of dirt and gravel. We could have easily selected Off-Road mode using the rotary controller between the front seats, but the truth is that Eco mode was enough to reach our destination and enjoy a scenic view of Quebec’s Eastern Townships.

Two Engines, Two Different Experiences

Most Explorer models rely on a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine borrowed from the Mustang. With 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, we have to say that acceleration is never a problem. True, the 10-speed automatic transmission doesn’t seem to like being pushed, resulting in jerkier shifts. Others will complain about the amplified engine sound that can be heard in the cabin, but our ears quickly adjusted to it and even forgot about it while cruising on the highway.

The real star, of course, is the Explorer ST. That model is blessed with more direct steering, unique suspension tuning and a stronger braking system. Large 21-inch wheels also help enhance handling. Under the hood is a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 that cranks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The difference in output between the two engines may be just 100 horsepower, but you can really feel it from behind the wheel.

We won’t pretend the Explorer matches Ford’s pony car in terms of agility, but it certainly ranks among the most dynamic SUVs in the segment along with the Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 duo.

Where’s the Hybrid?

This first-drive review needs to end with a word about the missing Explorer Hybrid. The aforementioned engines are the only two options for 2025, with the company choosing not to bring back the available hybrid system that was quietly axed last year. Actually, the only ones that can still order it are police departments.

That being said, with Ford postponing plans for an electric Explorer in North America and preparing to offer a hybrid variant of every vehicle in the lineup by the end of the decade, a new Explorer Hybrid is probably not too far away.

Watch: 2025 Ford Explorer is Refreshed and Improved