Just how different are the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2024 Ford Explorer, anyway? After a mid-cycle refresh, the answer is very different! Our comparison guide takes a look at how much this family-friendly three-row SUV has evolved in just one model year.
Key Takeaways
- For 2025, the Explorer introduces a new list of trim models: the Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST.
- The 2025 Explorer replaces the outgoing SYNC 4 infotainment system with the more all-encompassing Ford Digital Experience!
- Both Explorers handle your South Carolina adventures with ease, delivering rugged power and available all-wheel drive.
- In spite of so many upgrades, the cost of the 2025 Ford Explorer hasn’t gone up much since last year!
New Trim Model Lineup
The 2025 Ford Explorer has shed a few trim models. The streamlined new lineup includes the handsomely equipped Active, stylish ST-Line, upscale Platinum, and performance-based ST. Compared to last year, these models also introduce new styling, with a revised grille, headlamps, lower front air inlets, and taillights!
If you’re shopping for a 2024 Ford Explorer, you’ll find eight options: the Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. The off-road-ready Timberline will be missed for 2025 (unless it returns — as rumors suggest it may). We’ll also miss the King Ranch’s Western-themed luxury, including genuine wood trim and leather-wrapped door panels!
Technology Updates for 2025
The Explorer is among the first models to sport the all-new infotainment system, Ford Digital Experience. With its Google-based software (including Google Assistant and Google Maps), the system is easy to figure out and quick to do what you want. Plus, every 2025 Explorer trim model comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, 13.2-inch central infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto!
By comparison, the 2024 Explorer’s standard SYNC 4 infotainment system includes an 8-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. Both model years are available with coveted tech upgrades — including a 14-speaker B&O sound system and wireless phone charger.
And where the 2024 Explorer comes standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids (including forward collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assist, and rear parking sensors), the 2025 Explorer ups the ante with a standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package. It adds to the aforementioned items with adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and intersection collision mitigation!
Then there’s Ford’s hands-free driving technology, BlueCruise. The 2025 Explorer makes this system available for the first time, when you choose the ST-Line, ST, or Platinum trims!
Everyday Athleticism
The Explorer’s powertrain options haven’t changed. Both the 2024 and 2025 SUVs offer two powerful engines, depending on which trim model you select. For 2025, all but the ST trim models come standard with the base 300-horsepower engine. The twin-turbo V6 is standard on the ST and optional for the Platinum. For 2024, lower trim models come standard with the base engine, and the more luxurious ST, King Ranch, and Platinum feature the twin-turbo V6.
Ford Explorer Platinum Powertrain Specs
- Standard turbo 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Optional twin-turbo 3.0L V6 engine (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Explorer MSRP
With so many newly standard features, the base price has gone up since last year. The 2025 Ford Explorer starts at $39,755. By comparison, the 2024 Ford Explorer starts at $36,860. If you’re shopping for the latest features, the price bump is well worth it! Then again, if you’re shopping for an excellent deal, looking around for a 2024 Ford Explorer can’t hurt.
Your New Explorer
Now that you know the key differences between the 2025 and 2024 Ford Explorer, which will you choose? If you’re shopping for all the latest technology, you’re going to love the new version of this midsize crossover! But if you’re hunting for the best deal, we won’t dissuade you from checking out last year’s model. Visit us at Jones Ford in North Charleston, SC, to put either Explorer to the test!