As Ford Authority exclusively reported last September, the upcoming Ford Explorer refresh that was originally planned for the 2024 model year was later pushed back to 2025, meaning that the 2024 model year will be a short one for the long-running crossover. In fact, 2024 Explorer production just kicked off at Chicago Assembly plant on January 2nd, though it’s only expected to last for a couple of months before 2025 Ford Explorer production takes over. The Blue Oval just teased the 2025 Ford Explorer yesterday, also noting that the revised model would be revealed today, and now, we’re getting a look at everything that’s new with the long-running model.
As we’ve seen in numerous prototypes spotted by Ford Authority over the past few months, the 2025 Ford Explorer – which is available in Active, Platinum, ST-Line, and ST trim levels – looks slightly different on the outside, courtesy of a few minor styling updates. Up front, those include a revised fascia that varies slightly by trim, slimmer LED headlights, and lower, wider air curtains. In the rear, the taillights now extend to the nameplate appliqué, while Platinum, ST-Line, and ST customers can also opt for a black-painted roof.
Inside the cabin, the 2025 Ford Explorer features some more notable updates, including new soft touch surfaces, available ActiveX seating, silver mesh accents, and a redesigned dashboard that’s been moved forward to increase front row legroom. Underneath, an integrated tray holds an available wireless charger, while each trim level also gets its own unique interior color scheme. Additionally, the Platinum and ST come standard with seven ambient lighting options, which are also optional on the ST-Line. For 2025, BlueCruise is available on the Explorer for the first time, at least for Platinum, ST-Line, and ST customers.
More notably, the 2025 Explorer is the first Ford-branded vehicle to get the new Ford Digital Experience software, which was developed in conjunction with Google. It runs on a larger 13.2-inch infotainment screen, which is coupled with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The new software incorporates a host of Google apps and features including voice control – plus Alexa Built-In – and third-party apps such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible. Users can also surf the web and watch videos when the vehicle is parked, to boot.
In terms of powertrains, FoMoCo has simplified things a bit, as there’s currently no hybrid option, notably. Instead, customers have two choices – the turbocharged 2.3L I-4 EcoBoost, which is standard in the Active, Platinum, and ST-Line, and the twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 EcoBoost, which is standard in the ST and optional in the Platinum – though output remains the same as the outgoing model at 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. All are mated to the 10-speed automatic transmission, and all four trims come standard with rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive available as an option.
2025 Ford Explorer order banks are open now, and the refreshed crossover starts out at $41,220 with destination and delivery included. Deliveries are currently expected to begin in Q2 2024.
We’ll have more on the 2025 Ford Explorer soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Ford Explorer news and comprehensive Ford news updates.
Comments
Huge upgrade to get rid of that god awful vertical screen. The original digital cluster was terrible too. Hopefully they stepped up the quality and materials as well.
Explorer ST has a great chassis, but it had a worst in class interior. A real let down at its (fairly obscene) $60k plus price tag for a well equipped one.
Its VASTLY improved w/tech that outdoes ALL rivals in its class. That sweet body , capable chassis & 400hp in 3.0L twin turbo are extremely nice. ST is way to go!
The simplified dash looks nice. Not sure that I like that gaping face as much as my current ST tho. They could have integrated the grille/headlights better imo… such a sharp transition that it looks out of place.
The exterior of the 2025 ford explorer is awful! I would not consider buying an explorer until Ford designs an exterior that resembles a Ford Edge!
Get new ’24 Nautilus hybrid then! Getting rave reviews right now by all. Why would a 3 row Explorer resemble a 2 row Edge? Insensible comment. Explorer is a very attractive SUV. Sales #s prove this!
Hybrid option, please !
Look into ’24 Nautilus hybrid AWD. Getting rave reviews an it’s absolutely stunning to look at & drive. 31mpgs! A home run for Lincoln along w/ Corsair.
Is the timberline option available?
I drove a 2024 escape, hated all the controls on the screen, very confusing and what happens when the screen goes bad, which does happen often
Why would the screen go bad? Does your computer or laptop screen go bad? This is proven tech.
Not much of an interior preview, but I applaud the horizontal screen. The rest of the dash looks like the same drab, cheap Fisher-Price type of affair as the previous generation. Ford has demonstrated it can build a high-quality and attractive interior, if you’re willing to step up to a Lincoln. How about trickling down some of that know-how to the mainstream brand?
New Lincoln Nautilus AWD hybrid is a home run. In every way. It hits all the boxes for a midsized luxury hybrid SUV. Best in class!
Hybrid yes, with the 3.5L Powerboost Power Train & 7.2kw Backup Power Option.
The only trim of the Explorer I might be tempted to buy is the ST. However at the price (and considering the exterior design and interior materials quality, or lack thereof) I would much rather the Audi Q7 or even the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Explorer ST is amazing. Has everything & that proven luscious 3.0L GTDI 400hp engine. Beautiful baby! 💯
Read the article! Class leading tech & interior for ’25.