The 2025 Ford Explorer: A Mid-Cycle Refresh Or A Missed Opportunity?

The 2025 Ford Explorer: A Mid-Cycle Refresh or a Missed Opportunity?

The Ford Explorer, a name synonymous with American SUV dominance, is back for 2025 with a mid-cycle refresh. But does this update breathe new life into the aging model, or is it merely a cosmetic facelift that fails to address the Explorer’s core shortcomings?

To answer this question, we delve deep into the 2025 Explorer, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and comparing it to its rivals in the fiercely competitive mid-size SUV market.

The Good:

• Refreshed Styling: The 2025 Explorer boasts a more aggressive and modern design, with a redesigned front fascia featuring a larger grille, slimmer headlights, and a more sculpted hood. The rear end also gets a makeover with new taillights and a revised bumper. This updated aesthetic brings the Explorer more in line with the current design language seen in other Ford models like the Bronco and Mustang Mach-E.
• Enhanced Interior: Stepping inside the 2025 Explorer, you’ll find a more refined cabin with higher-quality materials. The dashboard features a new, larger touchscreen infotainment system, and the seats have been redesigned for improved comfort and support. The updated interior is a significant improvement over the previous model, offering a more premium and user-friendly experience.
• Improved Powertrain Options: The 2025 Explorer continues to offer a range of powertrain options, including the standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the optional 3.0-liter V6, and a new hybrid option. The hybrid powertrain is a welcome addition, offering increased fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The 3.0-liter V6 engine also benefits from an updated calibration, resulting in improved power and torque.
• Advanced Safety Features: The 2025 Explorer is packed with an array of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features contribute to a safer driving experience and help the Explorer remain competitive in the safety-conscious market.
• Spacious and Versatile: The 2025 Explorer continues to offer ample cargo space and passenger room, making it a practical choice for families and those who need a versatile vehicle. The third-row seating, although cramped for adults, is still functional for occasional use.

The Bad:

• Aging Platform: Despite the refresh, the 2025 Explorer still sits on the same aging platform that debuted in 2011. This platform is starting to show its age compared to newer rivals, and it lacks the refinement and ride quality of some competitors.
• Uninspiring Handling: While the Explorer’s handling is adequate, it’s not particularly engaging or sporty. The steering is somewhat numb, and the suspension feels a bit too soft, leading to excessive body roll in corners. This lack of dynamic prowess puts the Explorer at a disadvantage against rivals like the Mazda CX-9 and the Subaru Ascent, which offer a more engaging driving experience.
• Fuel Economy: The 2025 Explorer’s fuel economy remains a concern, especially for the V6 engine. While the hybrid option improves fuel efficiency, it doesn’t quite match the fuel economy figures of some rivals like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
• High Price: The 2025 Explorer’s starting price is competitive with its rivals, but the price tag can quickly escalate with optional features and trim levels. This can make the Explorer feel expensive, especially when compared to similarly equipped competitors.
• Lack of Innovation: The 2025 Explorer’s mid-cycle refresh feels like a missed opportunity to incorporate more innovative features. It lacks the cutting-edge technology seen in rivals like the Hyundai Palisade and the Kia Telluride, which offer features like digital instrument clusters and heads-up displays.

The Verdict:

The 2025 Ford Explorer is a solid mid-size SUV, but it’s not without its shortcomings. While the refresh brings updated styling, a more refined interior, and improved powertrain options, the underlying platform’s age and the lack of innovation hold it back from being truly competitive in the segment.

Who Should Buy the 2025 Explorer?

• Families seeking a spacious and versatile SUV: The Explorer offers ample cargo space and passenger room, making it a practical choice for families.
• Those prioritizing safety: The Explorer comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.
• Drivers seeking a comfortable ride: The Explorer’s suspension provides a comfortable ride, especially on rough roads.

Who Should Look Elsewhere?

• Drivers seeking a sporty and engaging driving experience: The Explorer’s handling is not particularly dynamic.
• Those prioritizing fuel economy: The Explorer’s fuel economy figures are not as impressive as some rivals.
• Buyers on a tight budget: The Explorer’s price can quickly escalate with optional features and trim levels.

Alternatives:

• Mazda CX-9: Offers a more engaging driving experience, a more premium interior, and better fuel economy.
• Subaru Ascent: Provides excellent safety, all-wheel drive, and a spacious cabin.
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Offers exceptional fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride.
• Hyundai Palisade: Provides a luxurious interior, advanced technology, and a spacious cabin.
• Kia Telluride: Offers a stylish design, a comfortable ride, and a host of advanced features.

Conclusion:

The 2025 Ford Explorer is a solid mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable ride, ample space, and a range of powertrain options. However, its aging platform, lack of innovation, and uninspiring handling hold it back from being a truly compelling choice in a segment filled with more dynamic and technologically advanced rivals. While the Explorer remains a viable option for families seeking a practical and reliable SUV, buyers with specific needs or preferences may find better alternatives elsewhere.