2025 Ford Explorer Trim Levels Comparison

Last Updated on 2025-09-09

Thinking about getting a 2025 Ford Explorer? Good choice! Whether you need a solid daily driver, something for road trips, or an SUV that can handle a bit of off-roading, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Ford has been refining the Explorer for years, and this model keeps up the tradition—offering a mix of performance, space, and tech. And if you're into customizing your ride, there’s a lot you can do to make it even better.

What’s Under the Hood?

Following a particular theme, the 2025 Explorer has a standard selection of engines. For those preferring a dependable and effective vehicle, the engine choice is a 2.3L EcoBoost with an I-4 configuration, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine suffices for everyday commuting, passing on the highways and light towing.

In case you want something a little more powerful, the 3.0L twin-turbo V-6 is recommended. This engine is offered in the ST and Platinum trims and is rated for 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This provides excellent acceleration and improves towing capability.

Replacing the old 3.3L hybrid V-6 for 2025 is the new electrified hybrid powertrain, which comes with a improved 2.5L Atkinson-cycle four cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. Now rated for 335 horsepower, fuel economy is solid without sacrificing performance.

The And of course the trusty Ford Explorer's max towing capacity is 5,600 lbs, enough for a trailer, boat, or camper and greater fuel economy. Fuel economy has improved a little as well for the Ecoboost engines, now at 19-26 MPG city and 24-30 MPG highway, and of course the hybrid does even better.

The Explorer offers seating for seven passengers, while the captain’s chairs option will bring that number down to six. With regard to cargo space, it can increase up to 87.8 cubic feet after folding the seats down, so you can easily store your tools, gear, or any other essentials needed for the road trip.

For those seeking to go off-road, you can equip the Ford Intelligent 4WD system, and for those looking to take bold adventures off-road, the Timberline trim comes equipped with all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential.

Choosing the Right Trim

Ford gives you a few different trims to pick from, depending on what you need:

• Base Model: The essentials—10.1-inch touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, cloth seats, and the standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. Solid choice if you just need a reliable SUV.
• XLT: Adds heated front seats, an upgraded SYNC 4 infotainment system, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and optional all-wheel drive. If you want a few extra comforts, this is a good middle ground.
• Limited: Steps up the luxury with leather seating, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a heated steering wheel, and the option for the hybrid powertrain. A nice pick if you want a mix of comfort and efficiency.
• ST: The fun one. It’s got the 400-hp twin-turbo V-6, sport suspension, paddle shifters, and a more aggressive design. If you want an Explorer that feels fast, this is the one to get.
• Timberline: Off-road ready with all-terrain tires, skid plates, more ground clearance, and a suspension tuned for trails. This is the trim for you if you’re planning on hitting dirt roads and exploring rougher terrain.
• Platinum: The top dog. Massaging front seats, a fully digital instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, and all the advanced driver-assist features. If you want the most premium version of the Explorer, this is it.

Making It Your Own – Mods and Upgrades

If you’re one for customizing vehicles, the Explorer is a good option to consider for aftermarket modifications.

With an ECU tune, you can extract extra power from the engine, and if you add a cold air intake, the throttle response will improve. You can also upgrade to an aftermarket exhaust if you want more depth to the sound of the engine, which will also improve efficacy alongside the new air intake.

If you like going off the road, a lift kit of one to two inches will add a helpful amount of ground clearance, and all-terrain tires will be helpful for rough milage. If you want to protect the undercarriage, then skid plates are vital. LED light bars also improve visibility when driving on trails at night.

If you tow or drive aggressively, upgrading brakes also becomes a crucial step. Performance brake pads and rotors help with stopping power greatly and with further reducing brake fade.

Now, with the right modifications to an Explorer, you can turn it into anything from a high-performance vehicle, an off-road focused one, or just make it more fun to drive around town.

Keeping It Running Strong – Maintenance Tips

Want your Explorer to last? Stick to regular maintenance. Oil changes should be done every 5,000-7,500 miles, using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air filters need replacing every 15,000-30,000 miles to keep your engine breathing clean air, and brake pads should be checked around 20,000 miles—if you feel vibration when braking, don’t ignore it.

Batteries typically last 3-5 years, but if you notice slow starts, it might be time for a new one. Rotate your tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to avoid uneven wear, and don’t forget about transmission fluid changes around 60,000-100,000 miles to keep your shifting smooth.

Follow these maintenance steps, and your Explorer will stay in top shape for years to come.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Ford Explorer is a solid SUV that works well for a lot of different lifestyles. Whether you need a daily driver, something fun to push the limits, or a rugged off-road vehicle, there’s a trim that fits the bill. And if you like to modify your ride, there’s a ton of potential to make it even better.

Thinking about getting one? Already own one and have some cool mods? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!