Ford Explorer 2025: Price, consumption, picture, technical data. SUV
Ford is chasing the fully electric vehicles. The recent premiere brought the Mach E SUV with a pure electric motor. Before that, we had a debut of the new Explorer with the plug-in hybrid system. In the future, Escape and Expedition may get a base hybrid configuration. After the redesign MY, we do not expect any major changes to the Ford Explorer.
SUV Explorer
The SUV is a large three-row model. It is one of the best sellers in the class and the addition of the PHEV system will help it beat Toyota Highlander. The Japanese SUV was the only hybrid model in the midsize three-row non-premium segment. Now Explorer PHEV is out and soon we could see Honda Pilot Plug-In Hybrid.
The changes to the 2010 MY are massive, so designers will take a break with the Ford Explorer. Well, other models are also waiting for updates. The midsize SUV will remain mostly unchanged. Let’s take a look at what you can expect from the model.
Why buy a Ford Explorer? And why not?
Explorer is not by chance one of the most popular three-row SUVs. It is a versatile model that offers its buyers a lot of options. In any case, the new design is the main advantage. All vehicles increase their sales after major changes. Old fans and drivers always want to test something new. Well, the Ford Explorer offers a comfortable and quiet ride. The seven-seater is 199 inches long and offers ample space in the cabin. Well, the third row is just for kids. The company still needs to update its infotainment system, which is good for another season or two.
There are also three engine options. All of them deliver good acceleration and handling. Safety is fine – visibility through the front windshield is excellent, while rear visibility needs improvement. Ford increased safety by adding automatic emergency braking for the next-generation Explorer.
Ford Explorer Drivetrains
The Ford Explorer gives you plenty of options to choose from. One of the biggest advantages is a variety of powertrains, starting with a turbocharged four-cylinder. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine makes 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for the midsize segment. Plus, a smaller block is lighter, so fuel economy is better than the V6.
The new Explorer ST makes 400 hp from a twin-turbocharged V6 powerplant. Well, the same engine serves as the upper option for the lower trims. However, output drops to 365 hp and 380 lb-ft. ST also adds more torque for a top speed of 143 mph. Towing capacity from a 3.0-liter V6 engine is 5,600 pounds. A four-pot unit is good for 5,300 pounds. The least powerful model is Hybrid.
Explorer hybrid configuration
Under the hood of the Ford Explorer Hybrid is a 3.3-liter gasoline engine. Engineers combine it with an electric battery for 320 horsepower. This is more power than Highlander Hybrid can produce. In the premium segment, we find Acura MDX Sport Hybrid with a similar output. However, the European Explorer combines a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine with hybrid technology for a total of 450 ponies. The US model can tow 5,000 pounds, while the Euro SUV is also better in this segment at 5,500 pounds.
Equipment variants
Engine options are just the first step. The new Explorer offers many more options to build your perfect SUV. If the base trim level isn’t good enough, other packages are available for further upgrades. The hybrid engine only comes with the Limited model. The ST is the most powerful, while the most luxurious is Platinum.
Ford Explorer Colors
Ford will handle all the color options for the Ford Explorer. That means the SUV is available in ten combinations. The base version is Blue, while all other paintjobs come with some sort of upgrade. This one is also available as Atlas Blue, while you might like Rich Copper, Star White, or Rapid Red. All of them cost extra. Agate Black, Oxford White, Silver Spruce, and Iconic Silver are neutral colors, while Ford also offers a Magnet scheme.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find only two combinations – Ebony and Sandstone. These are available for all types of upholstery and seating materials. Explorer uses cloth as standard, while optional upgrades are ActiveX and leather.
Prices
The base version of the new Explorer is not priced yet. The company cannot start the offer at $37,000. Well, the XLT is worth it, but Ford needs to downgrade to offer at least $33,000. There is also a big gap between the XLT and the next trim levels. The limited model costs $48,500, and you have to spend $55,000 for the performance-oriented ST version. The Ford Explorer Platinum is the most expensive option. However, with a price tag of $60,000, there are not too many options left for an additional upgrade.
