2025 Ford Explorer

Price Range: $40,050 - $56,770

Keith Buglewicz | Edmunds

Very Good

The 2025 Ford Explorer boasts powerful engines, and it's far more enjoyable to drive than a big three-row SUV has any business being. It also has great infotainment and hands-free driver assist tech. But a lack of room makes it less family-friendly than other big SUVs.Read full review

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Ford Explorer for Sale

Pricing

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Edmunds suggests you pay

$32,805

Prices based on sales in VA thru 3/2/26

Final assembly in USA

Pros

Strong engines for quick acceleration
Secure handling
Impressive collection of technology and driver assist features

Cons

Less second- and third-row space than many other rival SUVs
Hands-free BlueCruise tech is an upcharge subscription feature

What's new

Refreshed front and rear styling
Redesigned interior with new Google-based infotainment system
BlueCruise hands-free driving now available on ST-Line, ST and Platinum trims
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

Overview

Written by automotive expert Jared Gall

3/9/2026

The three-row midsize Ford Explorer is the latest in a line that reaches back to the dawn of the civilized truck, the original Explorer being one of the vehicles that kicked off America's ongoing love affair with SUVs. The modern Explorer is based on a rear-wheel-drive platform, which is unusual for vehicles of its type and contributes to athletic handling that stands out from a vast sea of competitors. For 2025, Ford focused its attention where it was needed most, substantially improving the Explorer's interior.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$172/mo

$258/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

Edmunds spotlight: The changes for the 2025 Explorer

The Explorer's much-needed interior overhaul addresses what were two of the vehicle's major shortcomings: functionality and appearance. In addition to a newly standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, the Explorer receives a new 13.2-inch touchscreen that debuts the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system. The Android-based system (wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is standard) uses Google Maps and includes Google Assistant for voice commands. Ford's hands-free BlueCruise highway driving feature is now available on the Explorer, but it will cost $75 a month, $800 a year, or $2,100 for three years of use, which is a bummer. On the appearance front, Ford is introducing new standard interior color schemes to differentiate the trim levels.

Competitors to consider

The revolution the Explorer kicked off has resulted in countless competitors for Ford's pioneering SUV. While we find the Explorer more exciting to drive than most others in its class, midsize three-row SUVs like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade twins boast more spacious and luxurious cabins than the Explorer. And those looking for a truly fun-to-drive family hauler absolutely must test-drive the Mazda CX-90.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

Driven, tested, rated by automotive expert Brian Wong

Very Good

7.2

out of 10

We drove the 2025 Ford Explorer on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Driving experience

7.7/10

How does the Ford Explorer drive? If you're looking for athleticism out of a three-row SUV, the Explorer is the clear choice. It out-steers, out-handles and out-accelerates the rest of the pack, especially the ST version. Both the ST and Platinum trims come standard with a turbocharged V6 that pumps out 400 horsepower. Our Explorer ST test vehicle sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. And the base engine, a turbo four-cylinder, is no slouch either and delivers better performance than the V6s found in the Kia Telluride and the Honda Pilot.

The Explorer is surprisingly agile, helping this Ford SUV feel sporty and stable. For daily driving, the Explorer is pretty smooth, but the engine's auto stop-start system is a constant annoyance at stoplights because it takes too long to restart the engine as you lift off the brake pedal. You can disable the feature, but it defaults to being on every time you get in to drive.

The Explorer's driver aids work unobtrusively for the most part, and Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system is available with a subscription. The latest version works pretty well and allows you to take your hands off the steering wheel on the highway when certain conditions are met.

Comfort

6.4/10

How comfortable is the Ford Explorer? Comfort in the Explorer depends greatly on which row you're sitting in. Should you nab one of the front seats, you're likely to be pleased by the supportive and well-cushioned seats. If heating and ventilation are equipped, both are excellent, with the seat coolers feeling just as robust as the ones we love in Ford's trucks. Some trims offer massaging front seats as well, but they're very loud and don't do a great job of massaging.

But if you're sitting in the second or third row, the experience is less pleasant. To start, the seats lack cushioning, and the headrests are uncomfortable. The captain's chairs, even in the ST, lack bolstering so occupants will slide around. They also lack padding and are too narrow for anyone but a child to enjoy. The third row is too close to the floor, so your legs are lifted well off the seat bottom.

Ride quality varies by trim level. The performance-oriented ST rides more stiffly than most SUVs, and you'll feel more bumps and ruts in the road. The non-ST trims offer a more composed and comfortable ride for all occupants.

In-cabin tech

9.7/10

How’s the tech? The Explorer's latest infotainment system is a big step up. There's a pair of screens: a 12.3-inch instrument cluster display and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen (both standard). It also has some Google integration: Google Maps is now the default native navigation system and Google Assistant handles the voice controls. The new system is very snappy and easy to navigate, but if you prefer, wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration is here. A bunch of USB ports are spread around the cabin to provide plenty of charging power for families.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

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2025 Ford Explorer pricing in Ashburn, VA

Edmunds suggests you pay

Build & Price

Buying Tips for the 2025 Ford Explorer for March

Here are some tips to help you save money and negotiate effectively when buying or leasing a 2025 Ford Explorer:

The Explorer models are being sold below the sticker price. For instance, you can expect around a 5% savings off the MSRP with current market prices. This translates to a savings of up to $3,000 depending on the trim. Use this information to your advantage when discussing pricing with the dealer.
There is a generally available customer cash rebate of $6,000 for new Explorers. This significant rebate can help lower your overall cost, so be sure to ask the dealer about this incentive during your negotiations.
There are promotional APR offers available at 2.9% for 72 months. This is a substantial decrease from the market rate of 7.44%, offering you a 4.5% reduction. By opting for this deal, you'll save money over the life of the loan, so inquire about this rate when financing.
With about 1,803 new Explorers available nationwide, supply is on the higher side. Additionally, Explorers tend to stay on dealer lots longer than the average new car, with a median of 152 to 174 days. This means there might be more room to negotiate on price, given the higher inventory and slower turnover.

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Storage & cargo

7.5/10

How’s storage and cargo? The Explorer has less space behind the third row than most competitors, at just 16.3 cubic feet. But there are some nice touches in the cargo area that make it more useful, including a decently size underfloor storage bin and a reversible cover with a non-carpeted side if you have to carry muddy or dirty items. With both rows folded, max cargo room is 85.3 cubic feet.

Small-item storage is decent. There are plenty of cubbies and bins tucked away in the doors and other areas for front passengers, but not as many for the second- and third-row passengers.

Value

6/10

Is the Ford Explorer a good value? The Explorer can't match what the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride bring to the table, especially considering the superior warranty the South Korean brands offer. But overall we think you're getting your money's worth here in features and build quality. The cost of some of the Explorer's options seems a bit exorbitant, however.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

MPG

5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The Explorer's fuel economy estimates are a bit better than average for a midsize SUV. EPA-estimated fuel economy ranges from a high of 24 mpg combined with the base engine and rear-wheel drive to a low of 20 mpg combined with the V6 and all-wheel drive. However, we've noticed that these turbocharged engines from Ford can get thirsty if driven more aggressively, so if you want to reach these figures, you might have to be lighter on the pedal.

X factor

9/10

If we had to pick one midsize three-row SUV to drive and have fun in, the Explorer would be the clear choice. If the V6 had a more thrilling exhaust note, it'd be a complete package when it comes to driving enjoyment. But when it comes to styling, the Explorer looks generic. The ST version has a few cool individual details, but overall there's nothing that helps the Explorer stand out.

2025 Ford Explorer trim level differences

The 2025 Ford Explorer is a three-row midsize SUV that is available in four trim levels: Active, ST-Line, ST and Platinum. The standard engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that makes 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 is optional on the Platinum and standard on the ST. It generates 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. A 10-speed automatic is the only transmission available, and every trim level comes standard with rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional on them all. Below, we will highlight all the important features and options on each trim level. Compare the 2025 Ford Explorer trim levels in-depth.

Which Explorer trim does Edmunds recommend?

Every Explorer comes well equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus some nice extras such as heated front seats. You will probably be fine with the base Active trim, but we think it's worth paying a bit more to get the ST-Line for its more stylish look and extra driver assist features, including hands-free BlueCruise. Explorer buyers who plan on towing heavier trailers should further upgrade to the Platinum or ST to get the more powerful V6 engine.

Ford Explorer Reviews

Owner Reviews

3.5

39 reviews

5(56%)

4(5%)

3(3%)

2(5%)

1(31%)

Owners Say

The overall sentiment for the 2025 Ford Explorer appears to be mixed. Many owners enjoy its powerful engine, spacious interior, and friendly tech features. However, several owners report serious issues like unreliable brakes and tech glitches, alongside concerns about noise and quality control problems. Some owners are disappointed due to inadequate customer service and unresolved mechanical issues.

This summary is AI-generated from the text of owner reviews

See all 39 reviews of the Ford Explorer

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Most Helpful Owner Review

Not even at 5,000 miles and stalled while driving

AU, 04/17/2025

2025 Ford Explorer Active 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A)

My wife has had a number of Ford Explorers to date. She really likes them and we got a new 2025 Ford Explorer recently. She just got to 4,000 miles and while driving the car just stalled and she had to pull over with manual steering (not easy) to avoid accident. Couldn't get it to start again. By the time I arrived the car started but the check engine light was on. I stopped it and …

Helpful shopping links

2025 Ford Explorer video

2025 Ford Explorer First Look | Refreshed & Revitalized | Interior, Exterior, Tech & More

The 2025 Ford Explorer gets a face-lift that brings significant updates, including revised styling, improved technology and bigger screens. In this First Look video, Edmunds' Brian Wong shows you what's new about the refreshed Explorer.

2025 Ford Explorer Features & Specs

Trim:

Active

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$40,050
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$172/month
Seating	6 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Reliability

The 2025 Ford Explorer has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 14 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, ranks it #23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average

#23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$556/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

1.07x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

16.8%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

Recalls

14 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V730000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25C60
Manufactured from:: 2025-07-07 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 56841
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Lincoln Corsair, Lincoln Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The windshield glass may have visible air bubbles, which can obscure the driver's visibility. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 205, "Glazing Materials."
Defect Consequence:: Reduced visibility while driving can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the windshield as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C60. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning October 27, 2025.

Recall Number:: 25V691000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25SA2
Manufactured from:: 2023-04-04 to 2025-09-23
Number of vehicles affected:: 43438
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid and 2025 Explorer hybrid police vehicles. A software error may prevent the vehicle from emitting the pedestrian warning sound at certain speeds.
Defect Consequence:: A vehicle that does not produce a warning sound may fail to alert pedestrians of an approaching vehicle, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: The audio control module and digital signal processing module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 5, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA2. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 10, 2025.

Recall Number:: 25V687000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25SA3
Manufactured from:: 2024-01-17 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 1364
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Explorer and 2024-2026 Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The trailer hitch assembly bolts may be loose.
Defect Consequence:: While towing a trailer, loose trailer hitch bolts can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control, or cause the trailer to detach. Either of these conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and tighten the trailer hitch bolts, or replace them as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 27, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SA3. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on October 15, 2025.

Recall Number:: 25V543000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25C42
Manufactured from:: 2023-11-29 to 2025-06-06
Number of vehicles affected:: 213121
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. When towing a trailer, the tail lights on the trailer may fail to illuminate due to an improperly manufactured body control module. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Defect Consequence:: Trailer tail lights that do not illuminate as intended can reduce visibility to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the body control module C on vehicles with less than 9,000 miles. For vehicles over 9,000 miles, dealers will perform a functional check on the body control module C and replace it as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed October 13, 2025. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated April 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25C42.

Recall Number:: 25V393000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S67
Number of vehicles affected:: 304662
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Aviator, and Explorer vehicles. The switch for the easy-entry second-row outer seats may bind or stick, resulting in the seats unlatching, folding, or sliding unexpectedly while driving.
Defect Consequence:: A seat that moves unexpectedly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the second-row seat switch, and replace the bezel around the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 23, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S67.

Recall Number:: 25V371000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S60
Manufactured from:: 2024-10-31 to 2024-11-20
Number of vehicles affected:: 3
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer vehicles. The bolts securing the front brake caliper may not be tightened properly, which can result in a loss of front brake function and possible wheel damage.
Defect Consequence:: Loss of brake function and wheel damage can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and tighten the bolts as necessary. If bolts are missing, the brake caliper and pads will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S60.

Recall Number:: 25V344000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S55
Manufactured from:: 2025-03-07 to 2025-03-17
Number of vehicles affected:: 154
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Transit, F-150, and Explorer vehicles. The connecting rod and rod bearing components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
Defect Consequence:: A damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: The remedy is under development. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed June 9, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S55.

Recall Number:: 25V316000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S43
Manufactured from:: 2025-04-01 to 2025-04-02
Number of vehicles affected:: 206
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Aviator vehicles. A mounting bolt for the front subframe may have been tightened improperly.
Defect Consequence:: A loose subframe bolt may reduce the vehicle's performance in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and tighten the subframe bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Owner notification letters were mailed May 21, 2025. Ford's number for this recall is 25S43.

Recall Number:: 25V239000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S35
Manufactured from:: 2023-12-06 to 2024-09-06
Number of vehicles affected:: 24655
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer vehicles. The powertrain control module (PCM) may reset while driving, which can damage the park system or cause an engine stall.
Defect Consequence:: A damaged park system can result in a vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is placed in park without the parking brake applied. An engine stall while driving can result in a sudden loss of drive power. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S35.

Recall Number:: 25V164000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S19
Manufactured from:: 2024-11-27 to 2025-02-04
Number of vehicles affected:: 269
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024-2025 F-150, Bronco, 2024 Ranger, 2025 Mustang, Explorer, and Aviator vehicles. The transmission valve body may have been machined incorrectly, which can cause reverse gear failure, or unexpected forward movement in reverse or neutral gear.
Defect Consequence:: Unexpected vehicle movement increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the transmission main control valve body, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 11, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S19.

Recall Number:: 25V020000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 25S03
Manufactured from:: 2024-09-17 to 2024-09-17
Number of vehicles affected:: 259
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The transmission may be improperly secured due to loose cross member bolts.
Defect Consequence:: An improperly secured transmission can result in a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission cross member bolts as necessary, free of charge. If the cross member bolts are missing, dealers will replace the cross member and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 29, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S03.

Recall Number:: 24V852000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24C39
Manufactured from:: 2019-07-29 to 2024-09-13
Number of vehicles affected:: 27678
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020-2025 Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2024 Escape, Lincoln Corsair, 2018-2024 F-150, Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The air bag warning label may be missing from the dashboard. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirement Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: Without a label that shows the proper restraint usage guidelines, the occupants may have an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Ford will mail owners the warning labels, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 19, 2024. Owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C39.

Recall Number:: 24V801000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24C34
Manufactured from:: 2024-07-18 to 2024-07-26
Number of vehicles affected:: 391
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles. The rearview camera image may fail when the vehicle speed reaches 10 MPH or greater. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: The loss of the rearview camera image while in reverse can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: The accessory protocol interface module (APIM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 28, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C34.

Recall Number:: 24V634000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 24S54
Manufactured from:: 2024-05-31 to 2024-07-10
Number of vehicles affected:: 24
Defect Description:: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2023 Lincoln Corsair, 2023-2024 Escape, 2024 Mustang, and 2025 Explorer vehicles. The fuel injectors may have been assembled without O-ring support discs, which can result in a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will install new fuel injector O-rings and O-ring support discs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S54.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

Compare the Ford Explorer

Compare selected vehicles

Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride has been one of Edmunds' favorite SUVs since it debuted. It features a comfortable, spacious cabin, solid in-car tech, lots of available driver aids and a smooth V6 engine. The Telluride has more passenger and cargo space than the Explorer, too. Read Edmunds' One-Year Road Test of the Kia Telluride .

Compare Ford Explorer & Kia Telluride features

Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Grand Highlander

The Toyota Grand Highlander sits between the smaller Highlander and larger Sequoia in Toyota's expansive lineup. The Grand Highlander is massive, with more space for people and cargo than the Ford Explorer. An available Hybrid powertrain nets the Toyota excellent fuel economy, too, especially for a three-row SUV. It's not as quick as the Ford, but we found the Toyota more comfortable and smoother to drive.

Compare Ford Explorer & Toyota Grand Highlander features

Ford Explorer vs. Hyundai Palisade

Think of the Palisade as the Hyundai equivalent of the Kia Telluride. Like that vehicle, it offers more passenger and cargo space than the Ford Explorer and a more premium interior with solid in-car tech and lots of available driver aids. The V6 is smooth, too, though not quite as punchy as what's available with the Explorer.

Compare Ford Explorer & Hyundai Palisade features

Safety

Key safety features on the Explorer include:

Back-up camera
Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Departure Warning
Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Pre-collision safety system
Post-collision safety system

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	14.7%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Good
Side Impact Test – Original	Good
Side Impact Test – Updated	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good

FAQ

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 Explorer both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.2 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2025 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford Explorer. Learn more

What's new in the 2025 Ford Explorer?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Ford Explorer:

Refreshed front and rear styling
Redesigned interior with new Google-based infotainment system
BlueCruise hands-free driving now available on ST-Line, ST and Platinum trims
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

Learn more

Is the Ford Explorer reliable?

To determine whether the Ford Explorer is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Explorer. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Explorer's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2025 Ford Explorer a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Ford Explorer is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 Explorer and gave it a 7.2 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2025 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 Explorer is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2025 Ford Explorer?

The least-expensive 2025 Ford Explorer is the 2025 Ford Explorer Active 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $40,050.

Other versions include:

Active 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $40,050
Active 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $42,050
ST-Line 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $45,020
ST-Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $47,020
Platinum 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $52,525
Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,525
ST 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,770
ST 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $56,770