Ford has made some compelling updates to its beloved Explorer SUV, catering to changing consumer preferences and ramping up competition within the segment.
After nearly five years since the last major update, the 2025 Ford Explorer has undergone several significant improvements, allowing it to maintain its edge amid fierce competition. Reviewers have noted various aspects of its updated styling, safety features, practicality, and driving experience, indicating how the SUV continues to compete with rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Renault Scenic E-Tech.
Styling: Ford gives the Explorer just enough exterior tweaks to keep things interesting. The overall shape remains similar, making it hard to tell apart from its predecessor at first glance. Only the updated wheel design burst with flair. The redesigned headlights and revamped grille breathe some new life, but the overall sporty aesthetic might feel diminished to some. The rear end's taillights blend smoothly with the vehicle's nameplate, adding elegance.
Inside, the cabin hosts new shapes and textures, but closer inspection reveals it's littered with hard plastics and sharp seams, which detracts somewhat from the overall presentation.
Safety: Safety remains high on the priority list for Ford. The 2025 Explorer boasts impressive safety ratings, having garnered five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the coveted Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Its array of safety features includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and driver attention monitoring, providing drivers with peace of mind in various driving conditions.
Features: The Explorer ST trim now includes features like heated and massaging front seats as standard, along with new technology like Ford's BlueCruise system, which offers hands-free driving on highways with automated lane changes. It ensures enhanced convenience for families on long trips, but it does come with the caveat of requiring paying for subscription after the first 90 days.
User-Friendliness: The latest infotainment system gives users bright and crisp graphics. Nevertheless, transitioning from physical climate control buttons to touchscreen integration draws some criticism. It makes accessing controls challenging when driving, as icons can get cramped. The system works well when the vehicle is stationary, which could provide minor frustrations for users on longer journeys.
Comfort: Overall comfort has improved with more spacious seating across the front and middle rows. Although the third-row seats are tighter than some competitors, headroom is surprising. The Explorer also reduces noise levels significantly, but its engine sound remains more pronounced than some competitive models, hinting at its sporty nature.
Driving Feel: The driving dynamics of the Explorer ST appear competent; it handles surprisingly well for its size. While it doesn't feel as nimble as some smaller vehicles, the suspension expertly manages the weight, providing stability around corners. Some reviewers mention the brakes might be too grabby, but for family haulers, the handling characteristics are satisfactory.
Power: Under the hood, the Explorer ST retains its twin-turbocharged V6 engine, packing 400 horsepower and significant torque. It competes favorably against other SUVs within its price range, easily outrunning many rivals.
Fuel Economy: The Explorer ST presents mixed results. It consumes fuel at 13.3 L/100 km city, 9.6 highway, and 11.6 combined, which is respectable against the backdrop of fuel efficiency concerns due to its demand for premium gasoline.
Value: Pricing for the Explorer ST has risen over the last five years, but including previously optional features now as standard makes it feel like less of a blow to the wallet. With its competitive performance and features, buyers are getting value for what they pay.
The all-new Ford Explorer Extended Range RWD enters the electric vehicle market, taking aim at long-range family utility. Competing against the likes of the Tesla Model Y Long Range and Renault Scenic E-Tech Long Range, the Explorer boasts commendable specifications.
With a price tag of £49,920, the Extended Range RWD version offers 354 miles of range with efficiency estimates around 3.7 mi/kWh. Its 77kWh battery adds to its appeal, with charging capabilities up to 135kW and significant cabin comforts.
The Renault Scenic draws buyers with its award-winning design and value, offering 379 miles of range for £45,440, but it performs lower efficiency metrics than expected. The champion of this efficiency test, the Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD, clocked up to 4.1mi/kWh — priced at £46,935, showcasing its compelling advantages for buyers seeking electric range.
Overall, performance reviews indicate mixed feelings across the spectrum yet reveal the Ford Explorer as still viable against its competitors, especially with Ford's continuous improvements. Each model brings unique strengths, but the Explorer certainly stands out for drivers needing performance and family-friendly value without sacrificing style.