2025 Ford Explorer ST vs. Platinum: A Battle of Performance and Luxury
The Ford Explorer has long been a staple in the mid-size SUV market, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and capability. However, the 2025 model year brings a fierce rivalry within the Explorer family, pitting the performance-focused ST against the opulent Platinum trim. Both vehicles offer compelling arguments, but choosing the right one depends on your individual needs and priorities.
The Performance Powerhouse: 2025 Ford Explorer ST
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST is designed to turn heads and deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Under the hood lies a powerful 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing a potent 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Explorer yet. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear changes.
Exterior Styling: A Statement of Sportiness
The ST’s exterior boasts a distinctive and aggressive aesthetic. Sporty black accents adorn the front grille, side mirrors, and roof rails, while a unique rear diffuser and quad exhaust tips further emphasize its performance intentions. The ST also sits lower to the ground than other Explorer trims, contributing to a more athletic stance.
Interior Design: Sporty and Functional
Step inside the ST, and you’ll be greeted by a driver-focused cockpit. The sporty black leather seats feature contrasting stitching and ST badging, offering both comfort and support. The steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather with paddle shifters, allowing for more control over the transmission. The ST also benefits from a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing a modern and intuitive user experience.
Performance and Handling: A True Driver’s Machine
The ST’s performance is truly impressive. The potent engine delivers exhilarating acceleration, while the responsive steering and well-tuned suspension provide a confident and engaging driving experience. The ST also features a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a unique exhaust system, further enhancing its handling and sound.
The Luxury Leader: 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum
The 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum is the epitome of luxury and refinement. It offers a plush and comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and a sophisticated exterior design.
Exterior Elegance: A Refined Presence
The Platinum trim exudes sophistication with its chrome accents and unique front grille design. The standard LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modern elegance, while the available panoramic sunroof allows for an expansive view of the surroundings.
Interior Opulence: A Sanctuary of Comfort
Step inside the Platinum, and you’ll be enveloped in luxury. The plush leather seats are heated and ventilated, providing optimal comfort for both driver and passengers. The interior features wood trim accents and ambient lighting, creating a serene and upscale atmosphere. The Platinum also benefits from a premium sound system, ensuring an immersive audio experience.
Technology and Convenience: A Seamless Driving Experience
The Platinum trim is packed with advanced technology features, designed to enhance both comfort and convenience. The standard Ford Co-Pilot360 system offers a suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. The Platinum also comes equipped with a wireless charging pad, a heated steering wheel, and a rear-seat entertainment system, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Explorer
So, which Explorer is right for you? The answer depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for a performance-oriented SUV with a sporty edge, the ST is the clear choice. Its powerful engine, sharp handling, and aggressive styling make it a true driver’s machine.
However, if you prioritize luxury, comfort, and advanced technology, the Platinum is the better option. Its opulent interior, advanced features, and sophisticated design make it the ultimate in SUV refinement.
A Deeper Dive: Comparing Key Features
To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at the key features of each trim:
| Feature | 2025 Ford Explorer ST | 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft) | 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 (365 hp, 380 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Exterior Styling | Sporty black accents, quad exhaust tips, unique rear diffuser | Chrome accents, unique front grille, panoramic sunroof |
| Interior Design | Sporty black leather seats, perforated leather steering wheel, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster | Plush leather seats, wood trim accents, ambient lighting, premium sound system |
| Technology Features | 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Ford Co-Pilot360 | 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Ford Co-Pilot360, wireless charging pad, heated steering wheel, rear-seat entertainment system |
| Suspension | Sport-tuned | Standard |
| Brakes | Larger brakes | Standard |
| Exhaust System | Unique exhaust system | Standard |
| Price | Starts at $50,000 | Starts at $55,000 |
Beyond the Specs: A Look at the Driving Experience
While the specs tell a compelling story, it’s the driving experience that truly separates the ST and Platinum.
The ST: A Thrill Ride
The ST is a true performance machine, offering an exhilarating driving experience. The engine roars to life, delivering instant acceleration that pushes you back into the seat. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing for confident cornering, while the suspension provides a sporty yet comfortable ride. The ST’s unique exhaust system adds to the experience, delivering a throaty growl that announces its arrival.
The Platinum: A Serene Journey
The Platinum offers a more refined and comfortable driving experience. The engine is still powerful, but it delivers its power in a smoother and more refined manner. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. The interior is a haven of tranquility, with the premium sound system providing a soothing soundtrack to your journey.
Conclusion: The Best Explorer for You
Ultimately, the choice between the 2025 Ford Explorer ST and Platinum comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a performance-oriented SUV that delivers an exhilarating driving experience, the ST is the clear choice. However, if you prioritize luxury, comfort, and advanced technology, the Platinum is the better option.
No matter which trim you choose, the 2025 Ford Explorer offers a compelling blend of style, capability, and technology. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the open road, the Explorer is sure to provide an enjoyable and rewarding driving experience.
