With fewer trims to wade through in the 2025 Explorer lineup, it should be easier for you to decide whether you want a sport-leaning setup or a luxury-leaning SUV. But sometimes, it's not so cut and dry, as both models offer so much. If you’re cross-shopping in the middle of the range against a more upscale model, the ST-Line and Platinum are where most people will land. Below, we outline the changes in ’25 and how these two trims differ.
Key Takeaways
- For 2025, the Explorer family gets streamlined to five trims.
- A widely rumored full redesign never came for '25; instead, Ford made targeted updates and feature additions.
- The ST-Line has only one engine, a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder. This engine is standard on the Platinum trim, but you also have the option of a V6.
Changes for the 2025 Ford Explorer Lineup
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a refresh rather than a full redo. It features redesigned front and rear styling with four new grille options, all-LED headlights, and a simplified trim lineup that now includes just five trims—Active, ST-Line, ST, Tremor, Platinum, and Tremor.
The SUV gets subtle exterior updates, including a revised front fascia with a new grille, headlights, and lower air inlets, along with redesigned taillights in back. Buyers of the Platinum, ST, and ST-Line trims can now opt for a black-painted roof and, for the first time, Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving system.
Inside, the cabin sees upgrades aimed at comfort and refinement, with new soft-touch materials on the door panels and center console, plus fresh interior color options. The 2025 model also debuts Ford’s new Digital Experience system, which seamlessly integrates personal apps and enables built-in streaming and web browsing when parked.
For the ST-Line, chrome makes way for black detailing, and the stance is set by 20-inch wheels. Inside, the cabin gets supportive sport seats with red contrast stitching. Materials take a step up from the base layout, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen system that fills the cabin properly.
Driver assistance is comprehensive: front and side parking sensors, a surround-view camera for tight lots, and adaptive cruise control that can read posted speed limits to adjust set speed. BlueCruise hands-free driving is on the options list for long highway runs. And if you add the Premium Package, the ST-Line pushes toward near-luxury with massaging front seats, configurable ambient lighting, heated second row, and a power-folding third row.
The Platinum trim starts from the Active’s (base) gear, then layers in or unlocks everything from the ST-Line Premium bundle and more. On the outside, you'll enjoy 20-inch wheels, a twin-panel moonroof, and adaptive headlights that swivel for better visibility. You'll find leather-trimmed seating with suede-style inserts inside, along with heated second-row captain’s chairs, unique trim accents, and a 14-speaker B&O. If you want extra muscle, Platinum is where the available 400-hp V6 enters the picture.
Engine Power in the 2025 Ford Explorer
The Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims use a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine generating 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The ST gets a standard turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet; this is also optional on the Platinum. Both engines mate with a 10-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across the lineup.
Choosing the Right 2025 Explorer Trim
Having trouble making a choice? We've got you! Choose ST-Line if you want a sporty vibe without going full luxury, and choose Platinum if your priorities are richer finishes, second-row captain’s chairs, and the available 400-hp V6. If you don't yet know for sure, contact us to set up back-to-back test drives. Ten minutes in each will tell you more than spec sheets ever will, and you’ll feel immediately which features fit your lifestyle. We've got your Explorer at our Banner Ford of Monroe showroom today.