2025 Ford Explorer Trim Levels Comparison: Features & Differences
When only the bold style and adventurous spirit of an Explorer SUV will do for your upcoming vehicle upgrade, you'll want to see the latest Ford Explorer trims to see which edition suits you best. The new 2025 Explorer Active, the well-equipped base trim, is great for value-conscious SUV shoppers. The ST-Line adds a sporty aesthetic while retaining the Explorer's standard fuel-efficient powertrain. For stronger performance, see the 400-horsepower Explorer ST. The luxe Platinum edition is here for heated second-row seats and other high-end amenities.
Comparing Ford Explorer Trims in Order
Now that the 2025 Explorer trims have arrived, it's time to learn about your latest options for this iconic Ford SUV. Burns Ford of York is bringing you a detailed review of the 2025 model as we look at the difference in Ford Explorer trims. With four trim levels to choose from, drivers and families with various budgets and lifestyles can find an attractive and competitively priced option that's perfect for them.
When we compare Ford Explorer trims, we'll also look at the standard and available features offered, so continue reading to get a better idea of which Explorer edition you'd prefer to test-drive and buy or lease at our Ford dealership.
Here are the Ford Explorer trims explained:
2025 Ford Explorer Active
The new Ford Explorer trim levels start with an edition that rivals higher trims of competing SUVs. It's the Explorer Active, and it gets a stellar list of standard features that range from the new Ford Digital Experience infotainment technology to LED signature lighting to a remote start system.
Other highlights of the entry-level Active trim include:
- 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine
- 13.2-inch touch screen
- Heated front-row seats
- 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Power liftgate
- ActiveX seating material
- Heated steering wheel
- Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+
- Adaptive Cruise Control & Lane Centering
2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line
Striking style is yours when you select the ST-Line from the new Ford Explorer trims. In addition to the high-tech upgrades mentioned below, this SUV boasts a bold appearance thanks to its 20-inch machined aluminum wheels and black exterior accents.
- Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0
- 360-Degree Camera
- Ford BlueCruise Equipped Hands-Free Highway Driving
- Distinctive cloth seat inserts with red stitching
- 10-speaker B&O® sound system by Bang & Olufsen®
2025 Ford Explorer Platinum
Get into a new Explorer Platinum edition if you're after the added comfort that comes from its multi-contour seats with Active Motion Massage for the driver and front passenger.
The 2025 Explorer Platinum trim also adds:
- Platinum-exclusive ActiveX seats with perforated leather inserts
- 980-watt, 14-speaker B&O® sound system by Bang & Olufsen®
- Wireless charging pad
- Twin-panel moonroof
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats
- Second-row heated seats
2025 Ford Explorer ST
You can experience peak power and thrills within the different Ford Explorer trims for 2025 by choosing the range-topping ST model. It brings an additional 100 horsepower to your drive, reaching 400 horsepower, courtesy of its 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine.
Other Explorer ST trim highlights include:
- 21-inch Magnetite-painted alloy wheels
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Red-painted performance brake calipers
- Third-row PowerFold fold-flat seat
Now that we've compared the four Ford Explorer trims for the 2025 model year, which will you choose? This SUV lineup has much to offer families, professionals, auto enthusiasts, and the adventurous at heart. The Burns Ford of York sales team is here for you when you're ready to get one of these stylish SUVs to call your own.
Features & Characteristics All 2025 Explorer Trims Share
While there are plenty of differences in Ford Explorer trims, they share a long list of premium features, too. For instance, all of the new Explorer trims come standard with a Class III Trailer Tow Package that helps the SUV achieve a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity when properly equipped.
The new Ford Digital Experience interface is found on all 2025 Explorer trims, as is wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ compatibility. The Ford Explorer dimensions and capacities are largely the same, aside from differences relating to the six- or seven-passenger seating configurations.
You'll still have many choices to make once you've picked your preferred Explorer trim level, like which paint color you want. You can see the Ford Explorer color options while you shop for your new Ford SUV online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the model hierarchy for the Ford Explorer?
The hierarchy of Ford Explorer trims for the 2025 model is as follows:
- 2025 Explorer Active
- 2025 Explorer ST-Line
- 2025 Explorer Platinum
- 2025 Explorer ST
The Active is the value-rich base trim, the ST-Line adds sporty styling cues, the Platinum brings added cabin comforts, and the top-trim ST delivers increased performance with its 400-horsepower engine. See these Explorer trims at your Ford dealer.
What is the difference between an XLT and an ST for the Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer XLT is no longer part of the Explorer trim lineup for the 2025 model year, having been replaced by the Active trim level. However, the power output is the biggest difference between lower trims like the XLT or Active and the ST trim. The Active and XLT feature 300 horsepower, while the Explorer ST gets a larger, 400-horsepower EcoBoost V-6 engine.
What is the difference between the Ford Explorer XLT and the Limited?
The Ford Explorer XLT and Limited trim levels have been replaced by the Active and Platinum editions, respectively. The new 2025 Explorer Active is the value-focused entry-level trim, but it still gets ActiveX seating material and a 13.2-inch touch screen. The Platinum adds premium perforated leather seat inserts, a twin-panel moonroof, and a 14-speaker B&O® sound system by Bang & Olufsen®.