Model tested: 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum RWD
Engine: 2.4-liter Ecoboost I-4
Transmission: 10-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
Horsepower: 300
Torque: 310 lb.-ft.
EPA ratings: 20-mpg/city, 29/highway, 24/combined
Base price: $51,655
As tested: $53,250
Overview: The 2025 Ford Explorer is a tried-and-true, three-row SUV that’s available in either all-wheel drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD). We drove the Platinum trim level RWD model with the small but powerful 2.3-liter Ecoboost inline four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. Pacific Northwest customers seem intent on AWD but the RWD served us well as all our driving was on paved roads. Several 2024 trim levels were dropped for 2025, leaving just Active, ST-Line, Platinum and ST models.
Walkaround: The 2025 Ford Explorer has new front fascia and grille and new taillights but it’s very similar to the 2024 Explorer. We thought the new, more aggressive grille was less attractive than previous iterations. Overall, styling is handsome and purposeful. The Explorer strikes us as a modern station wagon instead of a rock climber, which is fine because family transportation is why most consumers buy Explorers. The fact that law enforcement agencies favor Explorers might help you slice through traffic (especially in a white one), but we didn’t do that although our carbonized gray metallic Explorer could pass for an undercover unit.
Interior: Interior space and comfort were very good. The Platinum- trim-level Mojave dusk (brown) leather seats were heated for both the front and second rows. Material quality and design were above average but short of luxury SUVs. New, soft-touch surfaces were a nice improvement. Family-friendly functionality was excellent and the third row was fine for children. Third-row seats had the handy power-folding feature. When the third row was folded, cargo space was excellent. The infotainment system was updated for 2025.
Behind the wheel: The diminutive 2.3-liter, turbocharged I-4 seems small for such a substantial vehicle but it works surprisingly well. It can be a little noisy when pushed hard but merging and keeping up with freeway traffic was easy. The 10-speed automatic transmission did a fine job of managing the engine. Ride and handling were composed and great for long trips. Standard driver-assistance and safety features were plentiful and very welcome on today’s aggressive freeways.
Bottom line: The Ford Explorer is a foundation vehicle in the SUV segment and it has aged well. Continual improvements and enhancements make the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum a great family vehicle. The economic Ecoboost I-4 and standard rear-wheel drive help keep prices reasonable while focusing on space, comfort, versatility and safety — all key elements of a fine, multipurpose, family SUV.
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