The Ford Explorer is Ford’s mainstay SUV, having long been a forefront competitor in the class thanks to its consistent evolution over the decades that has kept it fresh and modern even in the ever changing automotive landscape. But does the 2025 Explorer continue this trend? Today, we’ll be taking an in depth look at the 2025 Explorer, comparing it to the 2024 edition to see what Ford has on the table for the new year. In today’s article, we’ll look at the Ford Explorer 2025 vs 2024: Interior and tech updates in store.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2025 Explorer gets some new tweaks on the exterior, as well as some interior touches that really make it stand out.
- The 2024 Explorer is a good bit cheaper than its 2025 iteration, but can it keep up?
- The 2025 Explorer jettisons the Limited, Timberline, and King Ranch trims.
What is the difference between the 2024 and 2025 Ford Explorer?
There’s plenty new about the 2025 Ford Explorer! Car and Driver reports that you can expect the biggest change for 2025 to be the loss of the Limited, Timberline, and King Ranch trims. This leaves the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum as the new levels of Explorer for 2025. Additionally, buyers can expect to see the exterior receive some subtle tweaks, with the highlights including a redesigned front grille, as well as new headlights, and a revised lower air inlets, while the rear sports updated taillights.
On the interior, Ford introduces a wide array of new materials on the center console and door panels, which also see revised color schemes. The Explorer is also introducing a first into the Ford lineup, as it looks to introduce the world to the Ford Digital Experience, a next-generation software system designed to prioritize seamless app integration, introducing features like native streaming, and internet browsing that are accessible while parked, allowing you to surf the web no matter where you are.
With these changes, the list of trims now reads as:
- Active - $41,220
- ST-Line - $45,980
- Platinum - $53,120
- ST - $56,800
How much is the Ford Explorer 2024?
The Ford Explorer is a bit cheaper if you’re shopping for last year’s model, Kelley Blue Book reports. They say that you can expect to see the 2024 Explorer to have a starting sticker price of $38,455, with the range-topping Explorer Platinum kicking off at $56,365. A full list of trims reads as:
MSRP (Sorted from lowest to highest)
- Explorer - $38,455
- XLT - $40,265
- ST-Line - $48,050
- Limited - $49,115
- Timberline - $51,025
- ST - $51,700
- King Ranch - $56,220
- Platinum - $56,365
For buyers looking to get the best value, Kelley Blue Book thinks the XLT trim is the best choice. The base model offers extensive customization, with a wide array of options on offer, and the XLT expands on this by providing a strong mix of features at a slight price hike. Newly standard features include proximity keyless entry with push-button start, heated side mirrors, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat—making it a smart upgrade for those seeking extra comfort and convenience.
Is the 2025 Ford Explorer Better than Previous Generations?
When it comes to outright quality, it's safe to say that the 2025 Explorer has its older brother SUV beat. Though the XLT trim is comparable to the new Active trim, it doesn’t have the creature comforts that Ford has made standard across the entire lineup this year. Come down to Banner Ford to experience one for yourself!