The 2025 Ford Explorer represents the sixth model year of the crossover’s sixth generation, for which it receives a major midcycle refresh. The list of new features includes a revamped front fascia, new tech, updated trim level lineup, and more.
These changes follow the introduction of the sixth-gen 2020 Ford Explorer, along with minor changes for the 2021 model year, more significant changes for the 2022 model year, and minor changes for the 2023 and 2024 model year.
Quick Facts
Assembly Location | Ford Chicago Assembly plant, Chicago, Illinois, USA |
Body Style(s) | midsize utility |
Layout | front-engined, longitudinal |
Engine(s) | 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 3.0 EcoBoost V6 |
Transmission(s) | 10-speed automatic |
Drive Wheels | RWD, AWD |
Availability | U.S.A., Mexico |
Generational year | sixth year of sixth-generation model |
Changes summary | major changes |
Predecessor | 2024 Ford Explorer |
Successor | 2026 Ford Explorer |
Model Line
The 2025 Ford Explorer gets notable updates to its model line. It is offered in either rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) across the following trims:
- Active
- ST-Line
- ST
- Platinum
Changes, Updates, New Features
The 2025 Ford Explorer gets a generous list of changes and updates, including a revamped front fascia, the addition of BlueCruise, a new 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen, a host of new packages, and more.
- See the complete list of 2025 Ford Explorer updates, changes, new features
Powertrain
There are two powertrain options offered on the 2025 Ford Explorer. The first engine is the turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4, rated at 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, standard on Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims. The twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6, meanwhile, is optional on the Platinum trim and standard on the ST, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
Engine | Fuel | Aspiration | Transmission | Drivetrain | Horsepower @ RPM | Torque @ RPM | Axle Ratio | Note |
Engine | Fuel | Aspiration | Transmission | Drivetrain | Horsepower @ RPM | Torque @ RPM | Axle Ratio | |
2.3L EcoBoost I4 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | RWD | 300 @ 5500 | 310 @ 5500 | 3.58:1 | |
2.3L EcoBoost I4 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | 4WD | 300 @ 5500 | 310 @ 5500 | 3.58:1 | |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Twin-turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | RWD | 400 @ 5500 | 415 @ 5500 | 3.58:1 | ST only |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Twin-turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | 4WD | 400 @ 5500 | 415 @ 5500 | 3.58:1 | ST only |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Twin-turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | RWD | 400 @ 5500 | 415 @ 5500 | 3.31:1 | Platinum only |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Gasoline 93 Octane | Twin-turbocharged | 10-speed automatic | 4WD | 400 @ 5500 | 415 @ 5500 | 3.31:1 | Platinum only |
Pricing
The 2025 Ford Explorer becomes less expensive than the 2024 model year crossover it replaced. See full 2025 Ford Explorer pricing information.
Production
Production of the 2025 Ford Explorer began in May 2024 at the Chicago Assembly plant in Illinois.
Seating
The 2025 Ford Explorer is offered with two seating configurations, accommodating either six or seven passengers. The first, which seats seven, is a 2x3x2 arrangement, features two front row captain’s chairs (seating two); a second-row bench seat (seating three); and a third-row bench seat (seating two). This configuration is standard on Active, ST, and Platinum. Note that it requires the Premium Package be equipped for RWD models.
The second configuration is a 2x2x2 arrangement that seats six, including a set of front row captain’s chairs (seating two); second row captain’s chairs (seating two); and a third-row bench seat (seating two). This setup is standard on the ST-Line and Premium Package and optional on Active.
Beyond 2025
The Ford Explorer will continue to be produced at the Chicago Assembly plant for the foreseeable future. The crossover is currently on track for a redesign for the 2027 model year.
Sales
See running Ford Explorer sales numbers for global markets.
Discussion
Discuss the 2025 Ford Explorer in our Ford forum.