2025 Ford Explorer: First impression

The Ford Explorer is the best-selling SUV in the U.S., with over 2 million units sold in the past decade. This figure includes the previous fifth-generation model and the outgoing sixth-generation one, which debuted in 2019. The latter uses the all-new Ford CD6 platform, which also underpins the Lincoln Aviator luxury SUV.

Fast-forward to September 2024 and the all-new 2025 Ford Explorer is launched in the UAE. The 2025 model is a heavily-revised and modernized iteration of Ford’s most popular SUV. The new Explorer is offered with hybrid powertrains in select markets, though these are yet to reach the UAE.

The 2025 Ford Explorer is available in Active, Active w/Comfort Package, ST, and Platinum variants. The price of the new Ford Explorer in the UAE should set you back between AED 190,000 and AED 250,000. It competes with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Traverse, and Nissan Pathfinder.

Exterior

Ford has successfully carried forward the boxy and rugged look with the latest Explorer. The squared-off rear end and wedge-like protruding front fascia remain unchanged, contributing greatly to the overall butch appearance. Stretching over 5 meters in length, 2 meters in width, and boasting a wheelbase of over 3 meters, the new Explorer certainly makes an impression.

The larger front grille features a new mesh pattern finished in either chrome or gloss black. It is flanked by redesigned headlights with multiple LED units, and the new taillights comprise the boxy main unit with slim extensions blending into the tailgate. There is a new & sportier-looking roof spoiler, with the rear bumper being revised ever so slightly.

The boxy silhouette of the Explorer is visually contrasted by its downward-sloping roofline and upward-sloping rear bumper. This has the effect of making the crossover SUV seem sleeker in profile while projecting a sporty stance. The top variants also get massive 21-inch rims that amplify this sporty feel while strengthening the curb appeal.

Other interesting visual cues include the flat hood with a subtle power bulge, raised roof rails, and awkwardly proportioned front wheel arches. Also, the front overhang of the Explorer is shorter than the rear. Boosting its ‘SUV-ness’ are generous amounts of black plastic cladding on the bottom half of the exterior.

Interior

Ford has significantly changed the interior of the Explorer, making it more comfortable and upscale. It starts with the implementation of higher-quality materials, improved fit-and-finish, and incremental design tweaks for better space utilization. The cabin feels roomier and utilizes different color tones and trim.

The new dashboard is located further forward to liberate more space – its smart design incorporates a storage tray with an integrated wireless charger. Various textures and soft-touch materials impart a premium feel, while storage cubbies are found throughout the spacious cabin.

The dashboard’s fabric-like texture looks interesting whilst hiding speakers underneath. Ensuring the cabin remains well-lit and ventilated are niceties like an expansive panoramic sunroof, upright windows, and well-spread-out air vents.

The Platinum variant gets perforated leather inserts with quilting on the door pads. The perforated leather seats feature ‘Platinum’ badging with leather piping and stitching for a more exclusive experience. The lighter tones make this interior feel airier, while the contrasting dark trim of the ST makes its cabin feel sportier.

Couple that with the 7-color mood lighting system and this interior truly livens up. The new Explorer comes with three rows of seats, 461 liters of cargo space, and hidden storage underneath the main cargo bay for added practicality.

Other thoughtful items include the electrically-operated & temperature-controlled front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, up to 7 selectable drive/terrain modes, plus power-adjustable steering. There are chrome-tipped quad exhausts, power-folding ORVMs with built-in puddle lamps and a memory function, a powered tailgate, adaptive cruise control, surround-view cameras, paddle shifters, and power-folding third-row seats.

The Ford Digital Experience infotainment system involves a 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Alexa compatibility. Meanwhile, the pristine Bang & Olufsen sound system sports 14 speakers capable of 980 watts of aural bliss. The driver gets a high-definition 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster providing plenty of relevant information.

Engine and performance

Customers in the UAE get two engine choices offered with the 2025 Ford Explorer. The entry-level Active and the fully-loaded Platinum get a 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine. This is the same engine that powered the pre-facelift model.

The turbocharged unit makes 299 hp with 420 Nm of torque and comes mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox. All-wheel drive is standard, but certain variants can be had with two-wheel drive. The 2.3L EcoBoost AWD version of the new Explorer has a fuel economy of 12.7 kmpl or 7.8 L/100 km.

The 2WD version of the Explorer is slightly more efficient, managing 13.0 kmpl or 7.7 L/100 km. The other engine option is only available with the ST variant. It is a 3.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost motor capable of 400 hp and 563 Nm of torque.

While this engine produces more power than the base 2.3-liter, it also drinks more fuel. Ford claims that the 3.0L EcoBoost AWD Explorer will average 11.3 kmpl or 8.8 L/100 km. Considering its weight hasn’t changed much post-facelift, the performance of the 2025 Ford Explorer is likely to be similar to its predecessor.

For reference, the 2024 Ford Explorer had a relatively unremarkable top speed of 180 kmph. It went from 0 to 100 kmph in under 6 seconds in its sportiest guise. This version was powered by the same 3.0-liter EcoBoost motor residing under the hood of the 2025 model.

To make driving on open roads more comfortable and safer, the Explorer features side-wind stabilization. This is intended to prevent the SUV from being blown off course when hit by strong winds from the sides. For better driver engagement, the Explorer ST’s 10-speed gearbox can be operated using steering-mounted shift paddles.

Drivers can choose between Sport, Eco, and Normal modes. Switching modes changes the responsiveness of the engine and gearbox and alters the weight of the steering wheel. There is also a Tow/Haul mode if you need to tow heavy equipment. The terrain modes of the new Explorer include Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, and Trail.

Safety

The 2025 Ford Explorer comes with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 safety suite. It adds Evasive Steering Assist, Pre-Collision Assist, Automatic-Emergency Braking, Post-Impact Braking, Cross-Traffic Alert, Blind-Spot Information System, and Lane-Keeping Assist. Of course, the Ford Explorer gets other safety nannies like electronic stability control, traction control, parking sensors, and seven airbags.

Conclusion

Given that it is brand-new, the 2025 Ford Explorer is bound to cost more than the model it replaces. Thankfully, Ford has reduced the number of options to just four variants. The entry-level Explorer Active can be had with or without the ‘Comfort Package’ – the former offers more creature comforts.

Irrespective, the Active variants are well-equipped and practical. However, if a fun driving experience is what you are after, then the Ford Explorer ST will suit you best. It packs plenty of everyday punch and is the sportiest-looking of all the variants.

The range-topping Explorer Platinum is for those who want the most luxurious experience, regardless of the price. Head to your nearest Al Tayer Motors dealership for more details on current prices and to take a test drive of the latest Ford Explorer.

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