2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2024 Ford Explorer: Discover What’s New

The Ford Explorer has long stood as a symbol of versatility and reliability in the SUV market. With the arrival of the 2025 Ford Explorer, you may wonder how it stacks up against the 2024 model. Both vehicles carry a legacy of excellence, but each year brings new improvements, features, and surprises. Let’s explore the differences between the 2024 vs. 2025 Ford Explorer to help you make an informed choice.

Performance and Engine Specs

When it comes to performance, the heart of the Ford Explorer is its engine. The 2025 Ford Explorer has two engine options: a turbocharged 2.3-liter I-4 with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque or a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines provide a great driving experience for city and highway use. The 2025 model has refined tuning for improved performance, while the 2024 version features the same engine lineup.

If fuel efficiency is important to you, the 2025 Ford Explorer shows slight improvements in fuel economy compared to its 2024 counterpart. The 2025 model achieves up to 24 mpg combined with the 2.3-liter engine and 21 mpg with the 3.0-liter engine. In terms of handling, the 2025 model benefits from upgraded suspension for better stability and an enhanced BlueCruise technology that offers more autonomous driving features for easier highway travel.

Design and Exterior Enhancements

Now, let’s talk design. The 2025 Ford Explorer comes with visual and aesthetic differences from the 2024 model. While both models maintain the iconic Explorer silhouette, the 2025 model has a more chiseled front fascia with new lower air inlets, a bold new grille design, and updated LED headlights.

The new model also offers LED taillights and a light bar appliqué that extends across the rear, enhancing its visual appeal. New exterior color options, including a striking Deep Cypress Green and Atlas Blue, provide more customization choices. Meanwhile, the 2024 Explorer maintains its athletic look with a refreshed front grille and LED headlights but lacks the pronounced updates of the 2025 model.

Both models focus on enhanced aerodynamics and utility. The 2025 Explorer incorporates redesigned body lines and aerodynamic enhancements to improve efficiency and reduce drag. It also features a standard power liftgate for added convenience. The 2024 model, while still aerodynamically efficient, doesn’t include the same level of aerodynamic refinement as the 2025 version. The 2025 Explorer also offers new wheel designs and an optional black-painted roof for a more distinctive look.

Interior Comfort and Technological Features

Inside the cabin, you’ll find that the 2025 and 2024 Ford Explorers deliver comfortable cabin experiences. The 2025 model features a redesigned dashboard, more space for front passengers, multicontour seats, and multicolor ambient lighting. It includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touch screen with the latest SYNC 4 infotainment, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2024 Explorer, while still offering a comfortable cabin with seating for up to seven passengers, includes a standard 8-inch touch screen with SYNC 3 and an optional 10.1-inch touch screen on higher trims.

The 2025 Ford Explorer features the updated Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes intersection assist, exit warning, and an improved precollision system with better pedestrian detection. It also offers a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility. The 2024 Explorer has the standard Co-Pilot360 suite with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. While both models focus on safety, the 2025 Explorer introduces advanced innovations to keep you safer on the road.

Price, Value, and Trim Levels

Pricing is always a critical factor in your decision-making process, so let’s break it down. The 2025 Ford Explorer has four main trims: the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. The base Active trim starts at an MSRP of $39,755 and features a 13.2-inch touch screen and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. The ST-Line, priced at $44,615, adds sportier elements and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The performance ST trim starts at $54,260 with a 400-horsepower EcoBoost V-6 engine, while the luxury Platinum trim begins at $52,250 and includes leather seating and a twin-panel moonroof.

In comparison, the 2024 Ford Explorer has a broader range of trim levels, including the Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. The base model starts at $36,860 MSRP, making it a more affordable entry point than the 2025 version. The XLT trim, priced at $38,670, adds features such as heated front seats and second-row captain’s chairs. The ST-Line and ST trims offer sporty and performance-oriented features similar to their 2025 counterparts, with the ST starting at $50,105. The King Ranch and Platinum trims provide luxury features, with the Platinum starting at $54,770.

Choosing Your Explorer

Choosing the right model depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re an adventurous spirit or a family person, consider how you plan to use your vehicle. The 2025 Ford Explorer excels in towing capacity, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need to haul boats or trailers. If you primarily drive around town, the 2024 model may still meet your needs without the bells and whistles of the latest version.

As you weigh your options, check out our auto-comparison tool. This handy resource allows you to easily contrast different models side by side, helping you evaluate key features, specifications, and pricing. Whether you’re leaning toward the adventurous 2025 Ford Explorer with its impressive towing capacity or the reliable 2024 model for city driving, our tool can assist you in making a well-informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.

Start Your Next Adventure at Planet Ford Dallas

The 2025 Ford Explorer and 2024 Ford Explorer each bring something unique to the table. Both models uphold the legacy of the Ford Explorer with their blend of performance, comfort, and style. However, the 2025 model introduces significant advancements that may appeal to you if you prioritize tech or performance.

We encourage you to visit us at our Dallas, Texas, dealership to experience both models firsthand. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you compare the 2024 and 2025 models of the Ford Explorer, ensuring you find the perfect SUV for your lifestyle. Contact us to schedule a test-drive today.