Ford Authority has checked in with you, our readers, to find out where you stand on Ford’s refreshed models for the 2025 model year. Some, like the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport, have been a hit, while others like the 2025 Ford Maverick have proved to be quite controversial. Like several of its Blue Oval brethren, the 2025 Ford Explorer underwent a midcycle refresh, gaining fresh styling both inside and out and debuting new tech for the popular crossover. As we examine the updated crossover from all angles, we want to know if you think the 2025 Explorer is an improvement, or if it would have been better off left alone.
Pre-refresh Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
Up front, the 2025 Ford Expedition sports a fresh face with new styling elements. That includes a revised fascia with a wider grille that juts at a 90-degree angle to the headlamps, as opposed to the 2024 model’s more sloping grille. The refreshed model features slimmer LED headlights, along with lower, wider air curtains than its pre-refresh counterpart.
Both crossovers share a nearly identical profile. They’re both streamlined and lithe, and share a small spoiler mounted above the rear glass, black plastic fender arches and rocker panels, and the same dramatic D-pillar angle.
Pre-refresh Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer is easily distinguishable from the 2024 model from the rear. The taillights were redesigned, now featuring an L-shaped element that extends into the liftgate itself to frame the “Explorer” script out back. However, both models share the same lower rear fascia treatment, which differs between trim levels.
Pre-refresh Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
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 and access to third-party apps such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible.
Pre-refresh Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
Now that the 2025 Explorer has been out for some time, it’s attracting plenty of attention. It led its competitive segment during Q3 2024, outselling its next-closest rival, the Honda Pilot, by nearly 5,000 units. It’s also one of Consumer Reports‘ recommended vehicles.
Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below – is the 2025 Ford Explorer that much of an improvement, or not?
Comments
Blegh. That grille is horrendous.
back and interior – yes
front – no
Agree 100%.
Concur with that. I’m not wild about either front end, but my wife voted with her wallet. When I showed her early pictures of the refresh, she chose the ’24 because of the front end and the lack of buttons on the new interior.
I like it way better than the 2020, inside and out. I always hated the Joker grin of the last gen.
They are showing the Platinum grille. The Active and ST-Line ( STateline? STreet Line? SainT Line? The creative people in Ford marketing were let go, apparently) grilles are toned down a bit, but the same overall shape. I like the return of more buttons and dials-still don’t like the glued on look of the screen, wish it was integrated into the dashboard better.
Cleaner grill, and a MUCH nicer interior on the 2025. Just get rid of the ridiculous (IMHO) dial-transmission selector.
2025, especially the interior. Liked the Land Rover looking 2016 -2019 front end better than the two later versions.
Not a fan of the new grill. And Soto about the dial shifter. I still like the look of my 2023.
2025 styling is much improved but still don’t like the outdated swoop side crease. Needs to look more like the more purposeful and fresh styling of the Bronco or new 2025 Expedition.
Exciting new cutting edge SUV. State of the art. Modern design. Raises the bar. A tremendous bargain. Stands out from the crowd. Automotive art. The American dream on four wheels. The family vehicle Americans have hungered for. A vehicle that gives the finger to the environment and a big hug to families.
Ford’s focus is on EV’s. Its so obvious. No time or money for ice vehicles and it shows. Especially the cheapaning of plastics. Just lowgrade looking. Bite their nose to spite their face. So many poor decisions.
I would probably not be able to tell a 2024 from 2025 exterior but I so love the interior and the bells and whistles. Wish they would have kept the park assist and included outside keypad. I know that they returned keypad but at a ridiculous price.
’25 Model looks great ! Now, where is the Hybrid model ?