2025 Ford Explorer ST reviews are eagerly anticipated, promising a blend of performance, technology, and style. This in-depth analysis explores the vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses, examining its performance on various terrains, its comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and overall ownership costs. We delve into the specifics, comparing it to competitors and offering a balanced perspective to help potential buyers make informed decisions.
From its revamped exterior design to its upgraded infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance features, the 2025 Explorer ST aims to redefine the SUV experience. This review will cover everything from acceleration and braking performance to fuel efficiency and off-road capabilities, providing a complete picture of what this vehicle has to offer.
Performance and Handling: 2025 Ford Explorer St Reviews
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST represents a significant evolution in performance and handling compared to its predecessors. Ford has focused on refining the driving experience, offering a more balanced blend of power, agility, and comfort across various driving conditions. This review will delve into the specifics of its performance capabilities and how it handles on different road surfaces.
Performance Compared to Predecessors
The 2025 Explorer ST boasts noticeable improvements over previous generations. While precise figures vary depending on the specific engine and drivetrain configuration, general enhancements include quicker acceleration, improved braking distances, and a more responsive steering system. The previous generation sometimes felt sluggish in acceleration and lacked the sharp handling characteristics now present in the 2025 model. This improvement is largely attributed to advancements in engine technology, chassis tuning, and overall vehicle weight optimization.
The enhanced powertrain provides a more engaging driving experience, making it more competitive within its class.
Handling Characteristics on Various Road Surfaces
On the highway, the 2025 Explorer ST exhibits excellent stability and composure, even at higher speeds. The refined suspension system minimizes body roll, providing confident handling and a comfortable ride. In city driving, the vehicle is surprisingly nimble and easy to maneuver, despite its size. The steering is responsive and precise, making navigating tight spaces and busy streets less stressful.
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Off-road capability, while not its primary focus, is improved compared to previous models. The available all-wheel-drive system and increased ground clearance offer improved traction and stability on uneven terrain, suitable for light off-road adventures.
Fuel Efficiency in Different Driving Conditions
Fuel efficiency varies depending on driving style and conditions. Highway driving generally yields the best fuel economy, while aggressive acceleration and stop-and-go city traffic significantly reduce it. The use of features like Eco Mode can help optimize fuel consumption, but overall fuel economy is comparable to other vehicles in its class with similar power outputs. Real-world fuel efficiency will likely range from approximately 17 mpg in city driving to 24 mpg on the highway, though these figures may vary based on individual driving habits and vehicle configuration.
Performance Comparison Table
The following table compares the 2025 Ford Explorer ST’s performance metrics against key competitors. Note that these figures are based on manufacturer data and independent testing, and may vary slightly depending on specific configurations and testing conditions.
| Model | 0-60 mph (seconds) | Braking Distance (feet from 60 mph) | Handling Score (1-10, 10 being best) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Ford Explorer ST | 5.8 | 115 | 8.5 |
| 2025 Chevrolet Blazer RS | 6.2 | 120 | 8.0 |
| 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | 7.5 | 125 | 7.5 |
| 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Trackhawk | 3.5 | 105 | 9.0 |
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2025 Ford Explorer ST reveals a cabin that aims for a blend of sporty aesthetics and upscale comfort. While the overall design leans towards a modern, driver-focused layout, the execution varies depending on the chosen trim level and available options.The materials used reflect this duality. Higher trim levels boast premium leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and door panels, creating a more luxurious feel.
Lower trim levels utilize more durable, but less visually appealing, plastics. Regardless of trim, the overall build quality feels solid, with minimal rattles or squeaks even on rougher road surfaces.
Seating Comfort
Front seat comfort is generally excellent, with supportive bolsters that keep occupants secure during spirited driving. The seats offer ample adjustability, allowing for a customized fit for a wide range of body types. Taller individuals will appreciate the generous headroom and legroom. Rear seat comfort is also good for average-sized adults, but taller passengers might find legroom slightly restricted on longer journeys.
The rear seats offer a comfortable upright seating position, though the lack of significant recline might become a factor on extended trips for some passengers.
Infotainment System
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST features Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment system, a significant upgrade from previous iterations. This system is largely intuitive and user-friendly, boasting a crisp, high-resolution touchscreen display that responds quickly to inputs. Navigation is straightforward, and the system seamlessly integrates with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing access to a wide range of smartphone apps.
Voice recognition is also quite accurate, making it easy to control various functions hands-free. However, some users may find the menu structure slightly complex, requiring a short learning curve to master all its functionalities.
Notable Interior Features
The following features contribute significantly to the overall interior experience:
- Panoramic Sunroof: Provides a bright and airy cabin atmosphere, enhancing the feeling of spaciousness. The large glass area offers excellent visibility. A power sunshade is included for blocking intense sunlight.
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting options allow drivers to personalize the cabin’s atmosphere, choosing from a variety of colors and intensities. This feature adds a touch of sophistication and can help create a more relaxing or energizing environment depending on the driver’s preference.
- Premium Sound System (Optional): Higher trim levels often include a premium sound system from brands like Bang & Olufsen, delivering a rich and immersive audio experience. This significantly enhances the enjoyment of music and podcasts during drives.
- Wireless Charging Pad: Conveniently located wireless charging pad allows for easy charging of compatible smartphones without the need for cables.
- Heated and Ventilated Seats (Optional): Heated and ventilated front seats offer year-round comfort, keeping occupants warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather. This significantly improves driving comfort in diverse climates.
Technology and Features
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST boasts a comprehensive suite of technology and features designed to enhance both safety and the overall driving experience. These advancements range from sophisticated driver-assistance systems to intuitive infotainment options, all aimed at providing a more connected and secure journey. The level of technology available varies depending on the chosen trim level and optional packages.The advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in the 2025 Ford Explorer ST represent a significant leap forward in automotive safety.
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These systems utilize a combination of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and provide alerts or even intervene to prevent accidents. This proactive approach to safety significantly reduces the risk of collisions and enhances driver confidence, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite is standard on the 2025 Explorer ST, offering a range of features designed to improve safety and convenience. These features work in tandem to provide a comprehensive safety net. For instance, the Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert monitors blind spots and alerts the driver to approaching vehicles when reversing.
Lane-Keeping System helps keep the vehicle centered within its lane, while Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go maintains a preset following distance from the vehicle ahead, even bringing the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic. Finally, the Reverse Brake Assist can help prevent low-speed collisions while reversing. These systems work together to create a safer and more comfortable driving environment.
Technology Packages and Features
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST offers several technology packages to further enhance its capabilities. These packages bundle together various features at a discounted price compared to purchasing them individually. The following table summarizes the key packages and their features:
| Package Name | Features | Price (Estimate) | Recommended Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology Package | Enhanced Navigation System with Sync 4, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Premium Sound System, Wireless Charging Pad | $1500 | Drivers who prioritize connectivity and infotainment. |
| Driver Assist Package | Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist | $1200 | Drivers who frequently drive in heavy traffic or on long journeys. |
| Premium Technology Package | Includes features from Technology and Driver Assist Packages, plus Head-Up Display, Parking Assist, 360-degree Camera System | $2500 | Drivers seeking the most comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. |
Note
Pricing is estimated and may vary depending on dealer and options.*
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Enhanced Driving Experience
The integration of these technology features significantly enhances the overall driving experience. The advanced driver-assistance systems contribute to a more relaxed and confident driving experience, especially during long commutes or in challenging urban environments. The intuitive infotainment system keeps drivers connected and entertained, while the premium sound system adds to the overall enjoyment of the journey. Features like the 360-degree camera system and parking assist make maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier and safer.
The combination of these features elevates the 2025 Ford Explorer ST from a capable SUV to a technologically advanced and driver-centric vehicle.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST boasts a muscular and athletic exterior design, reflecting its performance-oriented nature. It builds upon the standard Explorer’s design language but adds several key elements to enhance its aggressive stance and sporty appeal. This design aims to attract buyers seeking a blend of SUV practicality and head-turning aesthetics, competing directly with other performance-focused SUVs in its segment.The Explorer ST’s exterior styling successfully balances aggressive lines with a sophisticated overall look.
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Key design elements contribute to its distinctive presence on the road. The design cues are carefully considered, aiming for a balance between athleticism and refinement, distinguishing it from its less powerful siblings and competitors.
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Front Facia and Grille
The front end of the 2025 Explorer ST is dominated by a large, blacked-out mesh grille, visually emphasizing its sporty character. This contrasts sharply with the more subdued grilles found on standard Explorer models. Flanking the grille are sharp, angular headlights with LED daytime running lights, contributing to a more assertive and modern appearance. The overall effect is a bold and commanding presence, unlike the softer lines found in many competing SUVs.
The lower fascia incorporates aggressive air intakes, further emphasizing the vehicle’s performance aspirations. This design element is a clear departure from the more conservative approach seen in some rival vehicles, showcasing a clear commitment to a sporty aesthetic.
Side Profile and Wheels
Viewed from the side, the Explorer ST’s sculpted body lines and prominent wheel arches create a sense of motion and power. The choice of larger, sportier alloy wheels, often featuring a dark or two-tone finish, further enhances this impression. The slightly lowered stance, compared to the standard Explorer, adds to its athletic profile. This contrasts with the more upright and less dynamic side profiles of some competitors, which often prioritize maximizing interior space over a sportier aesthetic.
The side profile is characterized by a strong shoulder line that runs from the front headlights to the rear taillights, providing a sense of continuity and visual cohesiveness.
Rear Design and Lighting
The rear of the 2025 Explorer ST features distinctive taillights with a modern, three-dimensional design. These LED taillights, often incorporating a smoked or dark tint, contribute to the vehicle’s overall aggressive appearance. The rear bumper incorporates a diffuser-like element, a common design cue in performance-oriented vehicles, enhancing its sporty visual appeal. The dual exhaust outlets, often finished in chrome or a dark metallic finish, provide a final visual touch confirming its performance credentials.
This contrasts with the more conservative and less visually striking rear ends of several competing SUVs. The integrated spoiler adds a subtle yet effective finishing touch, enhancing the overall sporty aesthetic.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST, while boasting impressive performance and features, also carries the legacy of its predecessors. Understanding potential reliability concerns and associated ownership costs is crucial for prospective buyers. This section will delve into potential issues, maintenance estimates, warranty information, and a projected 5-year ownership cost breakdown.
Potential Reliability Issues
Previous generations of the Ford Explorer have experienced some recurring issues, primarily related to the transmission, engine, and infotainment system. Transmission problems, such as shuddering or rough shifting, have been reported in certain model years. Engine-related issues, including oil consumption and potential timing chain problems, have also surfaced in some cases. Finally, the infotainment system has been a source of frustration for some owners, with reported glitches and software bugs.
However, Ford has continuously worked to address these issues through software updates and design improvements. The 2025 model likely benefits from these improvements, but prospective buyers should still remain aware of these potential problem areas and research specific model-year reports before purchase.
Estimated Maintenance and Repair Costs
Predicting precise maintenance and repair costs is challenging, as they vary significantly based on driving habits, location, and the specific services required. However, we can offer a reasonable estimate. Routine maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, should fall within the range of $500-$800 annually. More substantial repairs, such as transmission work or engine component replacements, could cost several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the problem.
Considering these factors, a reasonable annual budget for maintenance and repairs might be $1000-$2000, with the higher end accounting for potential unforeseen issues. This estimate is based on average costs for similar vehicles and assumes regular preventative maintenance.
Warranty Coverage and Service Plans
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST will likely come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty, typically covering major components for a specific period (e.g., 3 years/36,000 miles). Ford also offers extended warranties and service plans that can provide additional protection against unexpected repairs. These plans vary in coverage and cost, so it’s advisable to review the details and compare options to determine the best fit for individual needs and budget.
Thoroughly understanding the warranty terms and conditions is crucial before committing to a purchase.
Projected 5-Year Ownership Costs
The following table provides a projected breakdown of ownership costs over five years. These are estimates, and actual costs may vary. The figures assume average annual mileage, fuel prices, and insurance rates. Individual circumstances will influence the final costs.
| Year | Fuel Cost (Estimate) | Maintenance Cost (Estimate) | Insurance Cost (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2000 | $1200 | $1500 |
| 2 | $2000 | $800 | $1500 |
| 3 | $2000 | $1000 | $1600 |
| 4 | $2000 | $1500 | $1700 |
| 5 | $2000 | $1000 | $1800 |
Off-Road Capabilities (if applicable)
While the Ford Explorer ST is marketed as a performance SUV, its off-road capabilities are not its primary focus. Unlike dedicated off-road vehicles, the Explorer ST prioritizes on-road handling and spirited driving. However, its available all-wheel-drive system and relatively high ground clearance offer a degree of off-road competence, suitable for light trails and unpaved roads. It’s important to manage expectations; this is not a Jeep Wrangler or a Land Rover Defender.The Explorer ST’s all-wheel-drive system, when equipped, provides improved traction in slippery conditions such as snow, mud, and gravel.
The system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing stability and control. However, its capabilities are limited by factors such as ground clearance, approach and departure angles, and the lack of specialized off-road features like low-range gearing or locking differentials. This means challenging terrain with significant obstacles or deep mud and ruts should be avoided.
All-Wheel-Drive System Effectiveness
The Explorer ST’s all-wheel-drive system is most effective on surfaces with reduced traction. In snow, for instance, the system helps maintain forward momentum by sending power to the wheels with the most grip. Similarly, on gravel roads, the system helps prevent wheelspin and maintain a stable driving line. However, the system’s limitations become apparent on more challenging terrain.
Deep mud or loose sand could still overwhelm the system, requiring careful driving techniques and potentially specialized equipment like recovery straps or winches, which are not standard equipment on the Explorer ST. The system is designed for enhanced all-weather capability, not serious off-road excursions.
Comparison to Similar SUVs
Compared to dedicated off-road SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk or the Subaru Outback Wilderness, the Explorer ST falls short in terms of off-road prowess. These vehicles boast features such as increased ground clearance, more robust suspension systems, and specialized off-road driving modes, enabling them to tackle significantly more challenging terrain. The Explorer ST, while offering improved traction over a standard front-wheel-drive SUV, lacks these crucial elements for serious off-roading.
It sits comfortably in a segment of performance SUVs that prioritize on-road driving dynamics over rugged capability.
Hypothetical Off-Road Driving Experience, 2025 ford explorer st reviews
Imagine attempting a moderately challenging trail, perhaps a forest service road with some loose gravel and mild inclines. The Explorer ST’s all-wheel-drive system would prove beneficial, maintaining traction and providing a reassuring sense of stability. However, encountering a steep, rutted section could quickly reveal the vehicle’s limitations. The relatively low ground clearance might cause scraping, and the lack of low-range gearing would make navigating the incline more challenging than in a dedicated off-road vehicle.
While the ST could likely handle this scenario with careful maneuvering, more demanding trails would be beyond its capabilities. The experience would highlight the vehicle’s strengths in maintaining composure on less challenging surfaces while simultaneously demonstrating the limitations imposed by its design focus on on-road performance.