Ford Explorer SUV 2025: Dreaming of a family SUV that combines room for seven, high-end comforts, and smart safety without skimping on power? The 2025 Ford Explorer steps up with a refreshed design, turbocharged engines delivering up to 400 hp, and a suite of driver aids for worry-free drives. Priced from around $33,000 in the US (expected ₹45 lakh in India), it promises a smooth ride and modern perks. As SUVs evolve in 2025, this mid-size icon blends adventure and everyday ease—perfect for road trips or school runs.
The Legacy and Refresh of the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has been a trailblazer in the SUV world since 1991, kickstarting the craze for family haulers with three rows of seats. By 2025, it’s in its sixth generation, but a smart mid-year update keeps it fresh against rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride. Ford trimmed the lineup to four key trims—Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST—for simpler choices, focusing on tech upgrades and subtle style tweaks.
What Makes the 2025 Model Stand Out
This year’s refresh swaps the old 10.1-inch screen for a bigger 13.2-inch touchscreen across all models, running Ford’s new Digital Experience system. It’s quicker and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Engine options carry over but feel punchier with minor tuning. In India, where it’s rumored for a 2026 launch, it could slot above the Endeavour with its 2.3L turbo setup. Sales in the US hit record highs last year, proving its pull for families wanting space without fuss.
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Roads
With India’s love for SUVs booming, the Explorer’s 198 mm ground clearance tackles potholes and monsoons. Its 5,000-pound towing capacity hauls trailers or boats, and the optional rear-wheel drive suits twisty ghats. Fuel efficiency? Expect 10-12 kmpl in mixed driving—better than thirstier V8s from the past.
Stylish Exterior and Roomy Interior
The 2025 Explorer turns heads with a bold, athletic look while wrapping passengers in luxury.
Outside: Bold Lines and LED Glow
Up front, a wide grille flanked by slim LED headlights gives it a commanding face. The Active trim adds 18-inch wheels, while the ST gets 20-inch black alloys for a sportier vibe. Sides show sleek lines and chrome accents on higher models, with roof rails for extra gear. At the rear, full-width LED taillights and a power liftgate make loading easy. Colors? Options like Agate Black or Iconic Silver, with dual-tone roofs on ST-Line. Overall length is 5,050 mm—big enough for presence but nimble for parking.
Inside: Plush Seats and Smart Space
Slide into a cabin with soft-touch materials and ambient lighting in seven hues, from cool blues to warm reds. The front seats heat and ventilate, with 10-way power adjusts for the driver. Second-row captain’s chairs (optional) seat six luxuriously, or go bench for seven. Third row folds flat for 2,486 liters of cargo. Leather on Platinum feels premium, and the flat floor aids foot traffic. Noise insulation keeps it quiet at highway speeds.
Powerful Engines and Smooth Drives
Ford’s turbo setups deliver grunt without guzzling gas.
Engine Choices for Every Style
Base Active and ST-Line use a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder making 300 hp and 350 Nm torque—zippy for city sprints. The ST upgrades to a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 with 400 hp and 515 Nm for quicker overtakes (0-100 kmph in 5.5 seconds). All pair with a 10-speed automatic for seamless shifts. Rear-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel adds $2,000 for better grip.
Ride Quality and Efficiency
Independent suspension smooths bumps, with optional adaptive dampers on Platinum for a cushy cruise. Highway mpg hits 12 kmpl (29 US mpg), city around 8-10 kmpl—solid for its size. A 70-liter tank means 800+ km ranges. In tests, it tows steadily and corners confidently, though the third row suits kids best.
High-Tech Features for Connected Rides
The Explorer’s cabin brims with gadgets that feel futuristic yet user-friendly.
Infotainment and Comfort Perks
The 13.2-inch screen anchors a system with over-the-air updates and voice controls. Add a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio for concert vibes. Wireless charging, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and heads-up display project info without distraction. Tri-zone climate keeps all cool, and a panoramic sunroof floods light in.
Everyday Conveniences
Power-folding mirrors, a 360-degree camera, and remote start via app make life easy. The Platinum’s massaging seats pamper on long hauls. For families, multiple USB ports and HDMI inputs entertain kids.
Advanced Safety: Peace of Mind Standard
Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite leads with proactive protections.
Core Driver Aids
Every trim gets forward collision warning with auto braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alerts. Adaptive cruise maintains distance in traffic. A five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ back its strength.
Extra Layers of Protection
Higher trims add evasive steering, intersection assist, and a 360-camera. Tire pressure monitors and driver attention alerts watch for fatigue. In India, these could shine on chaotic roads, with parking sensors easing tight spots.
Pricing and Trims: Tailored to Your Needs
Four trims make picking simple, with value across the board.
Cost and What’s Included
US prices start at $36,860 for Active (expected ₹45 lakh in India). ST tops at $55,000.
Here’s a table of 2025 Ford Explorer trims:
| Trim | Starting Price (US$) | Engine | Key Highlights | Seating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active | 36,860 | 2.3L Turbo (300 hp) | 18″ wheels, cloth seats, basic tech | 7 |
| ST-Line | 40,160 | 2.3L Turbo (300 hp) | Sport styling, 20″ alloys, wireless charge | 6/7 |
| Platinum | 53,055 | 2.3L Turbo (300 hp) | Leather, massaging seats, premium audio | 6 |
| ST | 55,015 | 3.0L V6 Turbo (400 hp) | Performance brakes, 21″ wheels, bold looks | 6/7 |
Add-ons like AWD bump costs $2,000; India pricing TBD but competitive.
Vs. Competitors
Against Toyota Highlander ($39,000+), Explorer offers more power; vs. Kia Telluride, better towing.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ford Explorer redefines family SUVs with its blend of space, speed, and smarts—seating seven in luxury, safeguarding with cutting-edge tech, and sipping fuel at up to 12 kmpl. From refreshed screens to turbo thrills, it’s built for today’s roads, whether in the US or soon in India. If versatility and vibe matter, this Explorer invites epic journeys. Visit a dealer to feel the difference—your family’s next chapter starts here.
FAQ
What is the starting price of the 2025 Ford Explorer?
In the US, it begins at $36,860 for the Active trim; expected around ₹45 lakh in India upon launch.
How many seats does the 2025 Ford Explorer have?
It offers six or seven seats, with a bench or captain’s chairs in the second row depending on trim.
What engines power the 2025 Explorer?
A 2.3L turbo four-cylinder (300 hp) on most trims, or a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp) on ST.
What is the fuel efficiency of the 2025 Ford Explorer?
Up to 12 kmpl highway (29 US mpg) and 8-10 kmpl city, varying by engine and drive type.
What safety features come standard?
Forward collision braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.