Explorer Model Research
2025 Ford Explorer Model Research
The 2025 Ford Explorer continues to solidify its status as one of America's top SUV choices, offering an exceptional blend of power, style, and everyday practicality. Under the hood, it features a capable lineup of engines, starting with a standard 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost®, while its 8.2 inches of ground clearance ensures it's ready for light off-roading and varied road conditions. The updated exterior makes a bold impression with a newly redesigned grille, refined lighting elements, and enhanced lower air inlets, plus, an available black-painted roof adds a dramatic, head-turning finish. Inside, the Explorer provides comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, generous cargo capacity, and upscale amenities like Multicolor Ambient Lighting and an available Twin-Panel Moonroof, delivering a refined, versatile space for both everyday commutes and weekend getaways.
Keep reading to unpack everything the new 2025 Ford Explorer offers. When you’re ready for a test drive, stop by George Kell Ford in Newport, AR. Our automotive resources are extensive, ranging from sales and finance to service and parts. You can discover new and pre-owned models online. Take time to also browse all our latest specials to unlock additional savings today! Whatever your automotive needs in the Little Rock area, there is something for everyone here at George Kell Ford. We are eager to meet and help all Tuckerman, Augusta, Batesville, and McCrory drivers find the car right for their lifestyle and budget!
Starting MSRP: $39,755
Ford Explorer Highlights
Performance
Standard 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 or available 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine, up to 415 lb-ft of torque, Side-Wind Stabilization, Terrain Management System™, SelectShift® Capability with Paddle Shifts, a 5,600-pound towing capacity, and available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
Interior
Available Active Motion® Seats, available PowerFold®, available Multicolor Ambient Lighting, available Twin-Panel Moonroof, and available Cargo Management System.
Exterior
New grille and lighting, lower air inlets, more than 8-inch of ground clearance, Power Liftgate, and available black-painted roof.
Technology
First-in-Class Ford Digital Experience software, available SYNC® 3 10.1-inch LCD Capacitive Portrait Touch Screen, wireless charging, and an available B&O Sound System.
Safety Features
Automatic High-Beam, Rear View Camera, BLIS®, Pre-Collision Assist®, Lane-Keeping System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and available BlueCruise hands-free driving.
2024 vs 2025 Ford Explorer
The 2025 Ford Explorer arrives with a bold new look and elevated features that make it stand out in the SUV segment. Its refreshed exterior showcases a redesigned grille, sleek new headlights, revised lower air inlets, and updated rear taillights that enhance its modern, confident stance. For those opting for the Platinum, ST, or ST-Line trims, a black-painted roof adds a sporty, premium touch, while the addition of BlueCruise brings hands-free driving capability to the mix. Inside, the cabin feels more refined than ever, with soft-touch materials applied to the center console and door panels, along with new interior color choices for a more tailored feel. The 2025 model also introduces the all-new Ford Digital Experience, marking a first for the brand; this intuitive system includes native streaming, app integration, and internet browsing when parked, setting a new benchmark for in-vehicle connectivity.
2025 Ford Explorer vs the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Kia Telluride
| Model | Power Liftgate | Max Horsepower | Max Torque | Towing Capacity | Rear Parking Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Ford Explorer | Standard | 400 | 415 lb-ft | 5,300 lbs | Standard |
| 2025 Toyota Highlander | Standard | 265 | 310 lb-ft | 5,000 lbs | Not Available |
| 2025 Kia Telluride | Not Available | 291 | 262 lb-ft | 5,000 lbs | Standard |
The 2025 Ford Explorer emerges as the ultimate contender in the SUV market, delivering an exceptional combination of power, versatility, and advanced convenience that outshines the 2025 Toyota Highlander and 2025 Kia Telluride. Equipped with an available 400-horsepower engine and 415 lb-ft of torque, the Explorer offers superior performance, easily surpassing what both competitors bring to the table, making it the go-to choice for spirited daily drives and rugged adventures alike. Its impressive 5,300-pound towing capacity outclasses the Highlander and Telluride, giving drivers the confidence to tow boats, trailers, or heavy equipment with ease. Standard features like a power liftgate and rear parking aid enhance everyday practicality and safety, amenities not consistently offered across all trims of its rivals. When it comes to raw power, cutting-edge technology, and unmatched towing capability, the 2025 Ford Explorer clearly leads the pack, setting a new benchmark in the SUV segment.
2025 Ford Explorer vs the Competition
Meet the newest evolution of the Ford Explorer, America’s best-selling SUV. With a lineup designed for versatility, the 2025 Explorer comes standard with a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine and 8.2 inches of ground clearance, ensuring capability on every adventure. Its striking redesign showcases a bold grille, updated lighting, and refreshed lower air inlets that create a modern, confident look. For added distinction, Platinum, ST, and ST-Line trims offer an available black-painted roof. Inside, the Explorer offers spacious seating for up to seven and generous cargo capacity, blending practicality with comfort. Premium upgrades like the Twin-Panel Moonroof and Multicolor Ambient Lighting system allow you to personalize every drive. Compared against rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, the Ford Explorer clearly stands ahead in performance, technology, and design.
Keep reading to unpack everything the new 2025 Ford Explorer offers. When you’re ready for a test drive, stop by George Kell Ford in Newport, AR. Our automotive resources are extensive, ranging from sales and finance to service and parts. You can discover new and pre-owned models online. Take time to also browse all our latest specials to unlock additional savings today! Whatever your automotive needs in the Little Rock area, there is something for everyone here at George Kell Ford. We are eager to meet and help all Tuckerman, Augusta, Batesville, and McCrory drivers find the car right for their lifestyle and budget!
Starting MSRP $40,050
2024 vs 2025 Ford Explorer
For the 2025 model year, the Ford Explorer introduces bold new updates that enhance its style and functionality. The refreshed exterior sports a redesigned grille, sharper headlights, and revised lower air inlets, while updated taillights add a sleek finish at the rear. Platinum, ST, and ST-Line trims now offer the option of a black-painted roof for an added touch of style, alongside Ford’s advanced BlueCruise hands-free driving system. Inside, drivers will find new soft-touch surfaces on the center console and doors, complemented by fresh interior color choices. The 2025 Explorer also marks the debut of the Ford Digital Experience system, providing seamless app integration, native streaming, and in-vehicle browsing capabilities when parked—making it the most connected Explorer yet.
2025 Ford Explorer vs the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot
| Model | 2025 Ford Explorer | 2025 Toyota Highlander | 2025 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine: | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 | 2.4L Turbo I-4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Max Horsepower: | 400 | 265 | 285 |
| Cargo Space (Max): | 87.8 cu-ft | 84.3 cu-ft | 87 cu-ft |
| Advanced Driver Assistance: | Ford BlueCruise (Hands-Free Driving) | Toyota Safety Sense (No Hands-Free) | Honda Sensing (No Hands-Free) |
The 2025 Ford Explorer solidifies its edge over the 2025 Toyota Highlander and 2025 Honda Pilot, excelling in key areas of performance, practicality, and technology. Standard power comes from a 300-horsepower EcoBoost® engine, while the available 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 outperforms both competitors’ offerings. With up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space, the Explorer also delivers superior storage capacity. The addition of Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system further raises the bar, offering an advanced driving experience unavailable in the Highlander or Pilot. With its unmatched combination of power, space, and innovation, the Explorer leads its class with confidence.
Performance & Power
Performance and versatility define the 2025 Ford Explorer. Its standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine delivers 300 horsepower, outperforming the Toyota Highlander’s 265-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. For even greater capability, the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 generates 400 horsepower, eclipsing the Honda Pilot’s 285-hp V6. The Explorer also includes a Terrain Management System™ with seven distinct driving modes—surpassing the Highlander’s four-mode setup—ensuring adaptability for any road or trail.
The Explorer goes further by blending capability with efficiency. Its sport-tuned independent suspension creates a smoother, more engaging ride than either the Highlander or Pilot, while fuel economy remains competitive at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Hill Descent Control™ and Trailer Sway Control enhance confidence in demanding conditions, giving the Explorer a wider range of capabilities than its rivals. With its balance of power, adaptability, and efficiency, the 2025 Explorer is built for every challenge.
Interior & Exterior
The 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a bold and refined exterior that distinguishes it from its competitors. With ground clearance exceeding both the Highlander and Pilot, it offers better off-road confidence while maintaining a strong road presence. Fresh design elements—including a new grille, reworked headlights, and updated taillights—enhance its modern look, while trims like Platinum, ST, and ST-Line add the option of a black-painted roof for a stylish edge not offered by its rivals.
Inside, the Explorer outclasses the competition with superior comfort and luxury. Available multi-contour seats with Active Motion® massage functionality raise the bar for relaxation, while upgraded soft-touch surfaces and customizable ambient lighting create a premium environment. The Bang & Olufsen® sound system elevates entertainment, ensuring every drive feels upscale. Together, these thoughtful features give the Explorer an advantage in both design and comfort over the Highlander and Pilot.
Technology & Safety
Technology takes center stage in the 2025 Ford Explorer, setting it apart from competitors. Its Ford Digital Experience system introduces seamless app integration, native streaming, and browsing capabilities, paired with a 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen powered by SYNC® 3. This interface outshines the Highlander’s and Pilot’s displays, offering more advanced features and intuitive usability. Full smartphone compatibility with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ ensures seamless connectivity.
In safety, the Explorer again leads the way. Ford BlueCruise provides hands-free highway driving, a feature unavailable in the Highlander and Pilot. The Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite further adds exclusive features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ and Dynamic Hitch Assist for easier towing and maneuvering. With its robust Pre-Collision Assist® system, the Explorer also surpasses Toyota Safety Sense™ and Honda Sensing® in driver-assist coverage, making it the most advanced option for safety and convenience.
Ford Explorer Trim Options
2025 Ford Explorer Active
Starting MSRP: $39,755 / $40,050
- 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine and Power Liftgate
- 13.2-inch Touchscreen, 12.3-inch Digital Cluster
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist with Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centering
- Standard Class III Trailer Tow Package w/ 5,000 lb. Max towing capacity
- Heated Steering Wheel and Front-Row Heated Seats; ActiveX® Seating Material and 8-Way Power Passenger Seat
- 5G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot and Ford Digital Experience
- LED Signature Lighting
2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line
Starting MSRP: $44,515 / $45,020
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist 2.0 With 360-Degree Camera
- 20" Machined Aluminum Wheels With Painted Pockets
- Unique Cloth Inserts with Red Stitching
- B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 10 Speakers Including Subwoofer
- Black Exterior Accents and Available Black-Painted Roof
- Ford BlueCruise Equipped Hands-Free Highway Driving
- Available ST-Line Street Package
- Available Premium Package
2025 Ford Explorer Platinum
Starting MSRP: $51,655 / $52,525
- All Active RWD; Ford BlueCruise Equipped Hands-Free Highway Driving
- Active Comfort Package features
- Platinum Branded ActiveX® Trimmed Seats With Leather Perforated Inserts
- Heated and Ventilated, Multicontour Seats With Active Motion® Massage (Front Row)
- B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 980 Watt, 14 Speakers Including Subwoofer
- Twin Panel Moonroof
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist 2.0 with 360-Degree Camera
- Wireless Charging Pad
- Available Lux Leather Package; Available Ultimate Package
2025 Ford Explorer ST
Starting MSRP: $55,505 / $54,770
- 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine and Sport-tuned Suspension
- 21" Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
- Red-Painted Performance Front- and Rear-Brake Calipers
- Miko® Seating Surfaces With Red Accent Stitching and ST Logos
- Heated and Ventilated, Multicontour Seats with Active Motion® Massage (Front Row)
- B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®, 980 Watt, 14 Speakers Including Subwoofer
- Third-Row PowerFold® Seat (Fold Flat)
- Wireless Charging Pad
- Available Black-Painted Roof
Ford Explorer FAQs
What is the starting MSRP of the new 2025 Ford Explorer?
The new 2025 Ford Explorer has an MSRP of $40,050, making it a competitive option compared to the 2025 Toyota Highlander, which starts at $40,320, and the 2025 Honda Pilot, which starts at $40,200. However, the Explorer stands out by offering superior power and features right from the base trim, giving you more value for the price.
What engine and powertrain choices does the 2025 Ford Explorer offer?
The new 2025 Ford Explorer offers a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® I-4 engine or a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine.
Is all-wheel drive available on the 2025 Ford Explorer?
Yes, the new 2025 Ford Explorer offers available all-wheel drive.
What is the cargo capacity of the 2025 Ford Explorer?
The new 2025 Ford Explorer offers up to 87.8 cu-ft of storage when the rear and second-row seats are folded.
Which driver-assist features are included in Ford Co-Pilot360™ for the 2025 Ford Explorer?
The 2025 Ford Explorer features available Ford BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving on 97% of controlled-access highways in North America. It also includes the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite of safety features, such as:
- Rear View Camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist
- Available Lane-Keeping System
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist™
- Pre-Collision Assist®
- Ford Post-Collision
What comfort and convenience features are available in the 2025 Ford Explorer?
The 2025 Ford Explorer is equipped with multi-contour seats with optional Active Motion® massage functionality. You can enhance your driving experience with available upgrades like multi-color ambient lighting, a Twin Panel Moonroof, and a premium Bang & Olufsen® sound system for a fun and luxurious atmosphere.
Does the 2025 Ford Explorer have a more powerful performance than the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers two powerful engine options: a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® I-4 engine and an available 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine. In comparison, the 2025 Toyota Highlander’s 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine only produces 265 horsepower, while the 2025 Honda Pilot’s 3.5-liter V6 offers 285 horsepower. The Explorer outperforms both competitors, especially with the option of its high-output V6 engine.
Does the 2025 Ford Explorer have an available all-wheel drive system superior to the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot?
Yes, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers available all-wheel drive (AWD), similar to the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, which also offer AWD options. However, the Explorer’s AWD system is enhanced by the Terrain Management System™, which provides seven selectable drive modes for optimal handling in various conditions, offering more versatility compared to the Highlander’s Multi-Terrain Select with four modes and the Pilot’s Intelligent Traction Management with four modes.
Does the 2025 Ford Explorer offer a more spacious cargo area than the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers up to 87.8 cu. ft. of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down, more than the 84.3 cu. ft. of cargo space in the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 87 cu. ft. in the 2025 Honda Pilot. This makes the Explorer the superior choice for those prioritizing storage capacity without sacrificing passenger comfort.
What driver assistance technology is available in the Ford Co-Pilot360™?
The 2025 Ford Explorer features Ford BlueCruise, allowing for hands-free driving on 97% of controlled-access highways in North America. This advanced system is unavailable in the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot, giving the Explorer a clear edge in driver assistance technology. Additionally, the Explorer’s Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite includes a Rear View Camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist, Lane-Keeping System, Pro Trailer Backup Assist™, Pre-Collision Assist®, and Ford Post-Collision braking—offering a more comprehensive safety package than what’s available on either the Highlander or Pilot.
What amenities does the 2025 Ford Explorer offer unavailable in the 2025 Toyota Highlander and the 2025 Honda Pilot?
The 2025 Ford Explorer elevates the driving experience with multi-contour seats and optional Active Motion® massage functionality, making it more luxurious than the standard seats in the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. The Explorer also offers multi-color ambient lighting, a Twin Panel Moonroof, and a premium Bang & Olufsen® sound system, providing a more refined and enjoyable atmosphere than what’s available in its rivals.
George Kell Ford
3710 South Van Dyke Road, Newport, AR 72112
Contact UsHours
| Monday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 12:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |