The Ford Explorer has been a mainstay for the Ford brand. Over the years the model has seen sweeping changes, but how does the 2025 stand up against the 2024 model? That’s what we’re here to find out.
We’ll take a look at what’s similar, and more importantly, what’s different to help give you a good idea on which model year for this SUV is right for you. These are some differences between 2024 and 2025 Ford Explorer.
Key takeaways
- The 2025 Explorer debuts new software for the Ford brand.
- The 2025 Explorer has half the number of trims from the year before, making it easier to get your desired features.
- Unlike before, the 3.0L engine is locked to the ST, giving you the best features possible for one price.
Is the Ford Explorer changing in 2025?
For 2025, the Explorer sees some changes from the 2024 model. The biggest change is the downsizing of the number of trims. While the 2024 Explorer had 8 trims, the 2025 trim slashed that number by half leaving 4 trims. The remaining ones are the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims. So if you are interested in the Base, XLT, Timberline or King Ranch, you need to stick with a 2024 model.
For the 2025 Explorer you can also find a slightly reworked front fascia, coming with a new grille, headlights, and lower air inlets. The back also sees some change with new headlights.
If you opt for a trim that isn’t the Active, you will gain access to the new black painted roof option, helping give the vehicle a sleeker look. You can also add Ford’s BlueCruise Hands-free driving. The interior sees a few changes from the 2024 model as well. This adds more comfort and upgrades materials, giving you a better ride.
The last new feature for the 2025 Explorer is new to the Ford brand as a whole. This is the Ford Digital Experience. This new software is meant to integrate the driver’s favorite apps, and gives you native streaming and internet browsing when you’re parked. Helping keep those “quick” stops at the store from getting too boring.
How much is a Ford Explorer 2025?
For 2025, as mentioned earlier there’s only 4 trim levels. The trim levels are the:
- Active starting at $39,755
- ST-Line starting at $44,615
- Platinum starting at $52,250
- ST starting at $54,260
While the 2024 model released with these trims:
- Explorer base trim starting at $36,860
- XLT starting at $38,670 (dropped in ‘25)
- ST-Line starting at $46,455
- Timberline starting at $49,430 (dropped in ‘25)
- Limited starting at $47,520 (dropped in ‘25)
- ST starting at $50,105
- King Ranch starting at $54,625 (dropped in ‘25)
- Platinum starting at $55,770
While prices are up for the trims that remain, that’s because of the upgraded features, as well as the features that were on the dropped trims being spread around. This helps make each trim be more rounded without the unnecessary bloat.
If you’re interested in a 2025, Car and Driver suggests the ST-Line, as their previous recommendation the Limited was dropped. They recommend the ST-Line because it “has the sporty cosmetic features of the ST and keeps the standard 300-hp turbo four-cylinder, but it's also nearly $11K less expensive.” They also note that it “includes a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, a flat-bottom ST steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and power folding mirrors.” The ST-Line is the best combination of looks and feel without breaking the bank.
The 2024, as mentioned earlier has the Limited as the recommended trim. Car and Driver states that this is because it includes “a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, 20-inch wheels, a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, a power-folding third row, and upgraded driver assists such as adaptive cruise control.”
How many miles per gallon does a 2025 Ford Explorer ST get?
The Explorer ST gets 21 mpg combined. When it comes to standard engines on the Explorer, the ST has the biggest and baddest one. This engine is the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. It gets 21 mpg combined, and being that this trim is built for fun, you gain some power when behind the wheel. This engine produces 400 horsepower, and has 415 lb-ft of torque, giving this vehicle a snappy feel.
The other engine that comes on the Explorer is the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. This engine comes on all other trims, and will get you 24 mpg combined. While this engine gets you better mileage, it does sacrifice power. This engine is capable of generating 300 horsepower, and 310 lb-ft of torque. Making this engine a reliable daily driver.
Which engine is right for you? Well that depends on your needs. If you’re wanting something more sporty, then you’d want the power that the 3.0L has. If you’re looking for something that will get you and your family where you need to go without needing to stop frequently, then the 2.3L is what you need.
Much like the rest of the areas we covered, the engines remain the same for both models that are in question, with the 3.0L being given to one trim, as opposed to the three it was on in 2024. Making the only real difference is the looks of the vehicle, as well as new software.
What model year is best for you?
If you want the various trims that were retired, you obviously need to get the 2024 Explorer. However if getting your hands on the newest technology is important to you the 2025 Explorer shows up with the Ford Digital Experience.
No matter which Explorer you’re wanting, we're here to help. Come see us at Jarrett Scott Ford today to check out our inventory!