2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Explorer Comparison

2025 EXPLORER

2024 EXPLORER

The 2025 Ford Explorer vs. The 2024 Ford Explorer: Enhanced Changes

Ford has refreshed the Ford Explorer, enhancing its features and performance to maintain its competitive edge in the SUV market. Discover how the Explorer has changed below.

Here's what's new for 2025 in the Ford Explorer

The front fascia is mildly reworked with a new grille, headlamps, and lower air inlets, while the rear gets new taillamps. Platinum, ST, and ST-Line buyers can spec a new black-painted roof option, and, more significantly, can for the first time add the BlueCruise hands-free driving feature. The 2025 Explorer is the first Ford to implement the Ford Digital Experience, its new software system designed to easily integrate users' favorite apps and provide native streaming and internet browsing while parked. The 2025 Explorer comes with an updated interior that puts a high priority on comfort with higher-grade materials and new soft touch surfaces on the door panels and center console.

Changes in trim levels for 2025

The 2024 Ford Explorer had a long list of eight trims but the 2025 lineup has been reduced to four models: The base Active, the ST-Line, the ST and Platinum. The ST-Line has the sporty exterior features of the ST and runs with the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower along with standard 20-inch painted alloy wheels, and can tow 5000 pounds with the V6 engine and it comes with a black painted roof.

Performance

  • 2024 Ford Explorer: The 2024 Ford Explorer offers a range of engines, starting with a 2.3L EcoBoost I4, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, there's a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque available in the ST trim. The hybrid variant combines a 3.3L V6 with an electric motor, delivering a combined 318 horsepower.
  • 2025 Ford Explorer: The 2025 model retains these engine options but with improved efficiency and performance tweaks. The 2.3L EcoBoost now delivers slightly better fuel economy thanks to optimized engine management software. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the ST trim remains a powerhouse, but Ford has fine-tuned the suspension for a more refined ride around Denison, IA. The hybrid variant also sees enhancements in battery management, providing a smoother transition between electric and gasoline power.

Interior

  • 2024 Ford Explorer: The 2024 model boasts a spacious and versatile interior with seating for up to seven passengers. The standard features include an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. Higher trims offer luxurious upgrades like leather upholstery, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and a premium sound system.
  • 2025 Ford Explorer: The 2025 Explorer builds on this foundation with subtle yet impactful upgrades. The base trim now includes a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen as standard, while higher trims feature an even more advanced 12.3-inch display. The materials used in the cabin have been upgraded, providing a more premium feel. Enhanced sound insulation ensures a quieter ride, making the 2025 Explorer a more comfortable vehicle for long journeys to Sioux City, IA.

Exterior

  • 2024 Ford Explorer: The 2024 Explorer presents a bold and modern design characterized by a prominent front grille, sleek LED headlights, and dynamic lines that convey a sense of motion. Standard 18-inch wheels give it a solid stance, while higher trims offer options like 20-inch alloy wheels and additional chrome accents.
  • 2025 Ford Explorer: The 2025 model refreshes its exterior with a more refined grille design and updated LED lighting signatures. New wheel designs are available across the trim levels, including an eye-catching 21-inch option for the Platinum trim. The overall aesthetic is more cohesive, giving the 2025 Explorer a sophisticated and contemporary look that sets it apart from its predecessor.

Technology and Safety

  • 2024 Ford Explorer: Technology in the 2024 Explorer includes Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available 12-speaker Bose and Olufsen sound system. Safety features encompass standard Co-Pilot360, which includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
  • 2025 Ford Explorer: The 2025 Explorer enhances its technological offerings with the new SYNC 4 system, providing faster processing speeds and over-the-air updates. The integration of a 360-degree camera system is now standard on higher trims, improving maneuverability and parking. Additionally, the Co-Pilot360 suite is expanded with more advanced driver-assistance features, including intersection assist and evasive steering assist, making the 2025 Explorer one of the safest vehicles in its class.

A comparison of fuel economy estimates

The 2024 Ford Explorer with all-wheel drive will give you 27 MPG on the highway which is one of the better fuel efficiency numbers in the class. For 2025, the Ford Explorer matches the Inline 4 engine from 2024, giving you fuel economy estimates of up to 28 MPG on the highway when equipped with rear-wheel drive.

VEHICLE COMPARISON

2024 Ford Explorer 2025 Ford Explorer
City/Hwy/Combined MPG20 / 27 / 23 MPG21 / 28 / 24 MPG
Engine Power300 hp @ 5,500 rpm300 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Engine Torque310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm
Max Towing Capacity5,600 lbs5,000 lbs
Passenger Volume152.7 lbs ft³152.9 lbs ft³
Cargo Volume87.8 ft³87.8 ft³
Transmission10-speed automatic10-speed automatic
Engine Configuration
  • Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder
  • Twin-Turbo V-6
  • Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder
  • 3.0-liter V-6 (ST)

Schedule a Test Drive at Team Ford Lincoln

Experience the updates and enhancements of the 2025 Ford Explorer for yourself. Schedule a test drive at Team Ford Lincoln and discover why the Explorer continues to be a top choice for SUV enthusiasts. Whether you're drawn to the improved performance, upgraded interior, refined exterior, or advanced technology and safety features, the 2025 Ford Explorer has something for everyone near Des Moines, IA. Visit us today and choose the model that works best for you.

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  1. Team Auto Group

    1813 4th Avenue South
    Denison, IA 51442

    • Sales: (712) 393-3000
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