New Features of the 2025 Ford Explorer

In the market for a reliable and versatile SUV? Consider the Ford Explorer, one of Ford’s best-selling models for families, adventure seekers, and daily commuters. With the recent release of the 2025 Ford Explorer, you may be wondering if the 2025 model is worth the upgrade or if you should opt for the familiar 2024 model. Let’s explore the differences between the two models — from design and performance to technology and safety features — so you can decide which model better suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Design and Exterior Updates

There are some key differences between the 2025 and 2024 Explorer’s design and exterior.

2025 Ford Explorer

The 2025 Ford Explorer builds on the foundation of its predecessor while adding a few sleek touches. The latest iteration features a reworked front grille with a bolder mesh pattern. Ford also redesigned the headlights, which now have a slimmer profile.
Ford introduced new color options with the 2025 release, including Abyss Gray Metallic and Desert Gold, giving drivers more variety when personalizing their vehicle. Another notable design change is the addition of 20-inch alloy wheels to complement the vehicle’s athletic look.

2024 Ford Explorer

The 2024 Explorer keeps its familiar design, featuring a prominent front grille and a rugged yet streamlined profile. Here are the colors to choose from:
• Agate Black Metallic
• Atlas Blue Metallic
• Carbonized Gray Metallic
• Forged Green Metallic
• Iconic Silver Metallic
• Stone Blue Metallic
• Oxford White

At an additional cost, you can make your Ford stand out even more with Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat or Star White Metallic Tri-Coat.

Performance and Engine Options

The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine is available in the 2025 and 2024 models, producing up to 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. However, if you’re looking for efficiency, the 2025 model has an updated engine management system that gives you slightly improved fuel economy compared to the 2024 model.
If you’re looking for more power and driving dynamics, both models’ Platinum and ST trims have a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine that pushes 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. As for the hybrid options, the 2025 model’s 3.3-liter hybrid V-6 engine has improved range and fuel efficiency, making it a better choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Interior Features and Comfort

Ford upgraded the 2025 Explorer to improve the comfort level of its passengers. These upgrades include improved seating materials, soft-touch surfaces — such as quilted leather seats for higher trims, and updated ambient lighting for a luxurious, relaxing atmosphere. While the 2024 model doesn’t have the premium touches of the 2025 model, it still has well-padded seats and a spacious interior that can accommodate families and adventurers alike.
The 2025 edition’s back rows are more spacious, now with more legroom in the third row — perfect for bigger families who frequently travel. Cargo space remains the same, with the ability to fold down the back seats to make more storage space.

Technology and Infotainment

Here’s a quick breakdown of both models’ technology and infotainment systems.

2025 Ford Explorer

Tech lovers will appreciate the 2025 Explorer’s upgrades. The latest model has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard across all trims with a fully customizable interface for all your driving data. The infotainment system also features a larger 13.2-inch touch screen running Ford’s latest SYNC 4 software, which has improved voice recognition and faster response times. For added convenience, the 2025 Explorer now has a head-up display to project information onto the windshield and a wireless charging pad.

2024 Ford Explorer

 The 2024 Explorer offers an 8-inch touch screen as standard, with higher trims getting the larger 10.1-inch version. Both models support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, but the 2024 model’s user interface is slightly basic compared to the 2025’s intuitive SYNC 4 system.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Ford offers various safety and driver-assistance features to keep drivers safe on the road. All trims from both models have the Ford Co-Pilot360 system, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, pre- and post-collision assist and braking systems, and rear parking sensors.
However, the 2025 model has a few notable improvements, such as enhanced adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-keep assist, and improved automatic emergency braking. The system also offers improved pedestrian detection, a new junction assist feature that helps prevent collisions at road intersections, and a new driver-attention monitor that alerts you if it detects any sign of drowsiness or distraction.

Which Model Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick recap of the key differences of both models:

• Design: The 2025 Explorer offers a more modern exterior with new color options and updated design elements.
• Performance: Both models offer powerful engine options, but the 2025 version is more fuel-efficient, especially with its improved hybrid option.
• Interior: The 2025 model features more premium materials and added comfort, with more space in the third row for cargo and passengers.
• Technology: The 2025 Explorer has a larger touch screen, an improved infotainment system, and extra convenience features.
• Safety: Enhanced driver-assistance features make the 2025 Explorer safer overall, but the 2024 model is still a great choice.
If you want the latest tech and more fuel efficiency, the 2025 Ford Explorer is the better choice. However, the 2024 model is still a solid and reliable SUV that may also come with a lower price tag.

Find Out Which Model Is Best for You

Whether you choose the latest 2025 version or stick with the 2024 model, both are reliable and versatile vehicles that families and adventure seekers can rely on. Visit us at Harbin Ford in Scottsboro, Alabama, for a test drive and experience both models firsthand to find out which best fits your needs. Contact us for an appointment to speak to our sales team, and check out our Value Your Trade calculator to find out how much you can save when you trade in your car with us.