The 2025 Ford Explorer: A Refined SUV with a Focus on Safety
The Ford Explorer has been a mainstay in the mid-size SUV segment for decades, consistently offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and capability. For the 2025 model year, Ford continues to build upon the Explorer’s strengths, introducing a refined design, enhanced technology, and a renewed focus on safety, as reflected in its impressive IIHS ratings.
A Refined Exterior and Interior
The 2025 Explorer boasts a subtly updated exterior design, characterized by sharper lines and a more modern aesthetic. The front fascia features a redesigned grille with a more prominent Ford logo, flanked by slimmer headlights with LED accents. The rear end receives a similar treatment, with new taillights and a sculpted tailgate that accentuates the SUV’s muscular stance.
Inside, the 2025 Explorer benefits from a more driver-centric cockpit. The dashboard is streamlined, featuring a large, high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system that takes center stage. The instrument cluster has been upgraded with a digital display, providing a more modern and informative interface. Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.
Technology Takes Center Stage
Ford has equipped the 2025 Explorer with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology features. The new SYNC 4 infotainment system provides seamless connectivity, offering features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, voice commands, and over-the-air updates.
The 2025 Explorer also benefits from a suite of driver-assist technologies, including:
- Ford Co-Pilot360: This comprehensive safety suite includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
- Active Park Assist: This system simplifies parallel and perpendicular parking by automatically steering the vehicle into tight spaces.
- Head-Up Display: This technology projects important driving information onto the windshield, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
- FordPass Connect: This feature allows drivers to remotely control vehicle functions such as locking the doors, starting the engine, and checking fuel levels through a smartphone app.
Safety First: IIHS Top Safety Pick+
The 2025 Ford Explorer has earned the coveted IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, solidifying its position as one of the safest SUVs in its class. This achievement is a testament to Ford’s commitment to safety and the effectiveness of the Explorer’s comprehensive safety features.
The IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating is awarded to vehicles that achieve the highest ratings in all six crashworthiness tests:
- Driver-side small overlap front: Good
- Passenger-side small overlap front: Good
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Head restraints: Good
In addition to crashworthiness, the IIHS also evaluates vehicle safety features. The 2025 Explorer earned "Superior" ratings in both the front crash prevention and pedestrian detection tests, thanks to its standard automatic emergency braking system.
Powertrain Options to Suit Every Need
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a range of powertrain options to suit diverse driving needs and preferences:
- 2.3L EcoBoost: This four-cylinder engine delivers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, generating 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.0L EcoBoost: This powerful V6 engine provides exhilarating acceleration, generating 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
- Hybrid: The Explorer Hybrid combines a 3.3L V6 engine with an electric motor, offering impressive fuel economy and a smooth driving experience.
- Plug-In Hybrid: The Explorer Plug-In Hybrid combines the efficiency of a hybrid system with the ability to travel on electric power alone for short distances.
Each powertrain option is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and responsive acceleration. The Explorer also offers a choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, providing added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
A Refined Driving Experience
The 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a refined driving experience, blending comfort, handling, and capability. The suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and handling precision, allowing the Explorer to navigate city streets with ease and tackle winding roads with confidence.
The Explorer’s spacious cabin provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal vehicle for families and those who need to transport large items. The third-row seats, while best suited for children, offer added versatility for those who need to carry extra passengers.
Conclusion: A Comprehensive Package
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of style, technology, safety, and practicality. Its refined design, enhanced technology, and impressive IIHS ratings make it an excellent choice for families and individuals seeking a safe, comfortable, and capable vehicle. With its diverse powertrain options and feature-rich interior, the 2025 Explorer caters to a wide range of needs and preferences, ensuring a satisfying driving experience for every driver.
