Considering the Ford Explorer as your next SUV? The 2025 lineup is certainly more focused but still chock full of comfort, power, and tech. Ford dropped several trims, leaving just four, which makes choosing a model a little simpler. If you’re deciding between the Active and ST-Line trims, here’s a closer look at how they compare.
Key Takeaways
- The rumored major refresh didn’t happen—updates for 2025 are mostly visual and tech-focused.
- The new lineup includes only Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims.
- The ST-Line adds sportier styling and more features than the Active base model.
Updates and Features for the 2025 Ford Explorer
Ford kept the Explorer recognizable for 2025 but cleaned up the design and added some new tech. Outside, it gets a reworked front fascia, revised grille, and updated lighting front and rear. Inside, the biggest addition is Ford’s Digital Experience, which lets you stream movies, browse the web, and download apps through Google Play (while parked, of course). Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving system also becomes available across the lineup, expanding the automaker's driver-assist capabilities.
Ford also streamlined the trim lineup by removing XLT, Limited, Timberline, and King Ranch models. The Active trim now serves as the base model, followed by the ST-Line, ST, and Platinum.
Comparing the Active and ST-Line Trims
The Active comes with 18-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, a power liftgate, and a Class III trailer hitch for light towing. Inside, you’ll find heated, power-adjustable front seats, a seven-passenger configuration with a second-row bench, and tri-zone automatic climate control.
Inside, it features a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The digital instrument cluster replaces traditional gauges with customizable displays for navigation and driver information. The optional Active Comfort Package adds more convenience with the addition of a remote start, heated steering wheel, power passenger seat, and synthetic leather upholstery.
Step up to the ST-Line, and the Explorer rides on 20-inch wheels with black exterior accents and darkened headlights and taillights. Red interior stitching and black synthetic leather with cloth inserts add contrast inside. A 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system comes standard.
The available ST-Line Premium Package layers on luxury touches in massaging front seats, heated second-row seats, a power-adjustable steering column, power-folding third-row seats, second-row sunshades, ambient lighting, and a wireless charging pad.
Both the Active and ST-Line trims use Ford’s 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It mates with a 10-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting and balanced power delivery. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while all-wheel drive is available for more traction.
When properly equipped with the Class III Towing Package, the 2025 Explorer can pull up to 5,000 pounds. The package includes a trailer hitch, wiring harness, and built-in trailer sway control.
Which 2025 Ford Explorer Trim Offers the Best Mix of Power and Comfort?
No matter your choice of trim, the 2025 Ford Explorer continues to balance space, tech, and confident performance. If you’re ready to experience both the Active and St-Line trims firsthand, stop by our Jarrett Ford Dade City showroom today!