In the competitive landscape of performance SUVs, the Ford Explorer ST is a testament to the Ford engineering prowess. This latest iteration of the performance-oriented Explorer delivers an exhilarating driving experience that maintains the practical versatility that families have come to expect.

Powerhouse Performance

At the heart of the Explorer ST beats a formidable 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine. This engineering marvel delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 563 Nm of torque, positioning it as one of the most powerful offerings in the mid-size SUV segment. The Ford Explorer ST horsepower figures perfectly balance everyday usability and performance capabilities that enthusiasts crave.

A refined 10-speed automatic transmission pairs with the powertrain, delivering lightning-quick shifts in both automatic mode and when using the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Ford specifically calibrated this transmission for the Explorer ST engine to maximize power delivery while maintaining efficiency in everyday driving.

Acceleration and Performance Metrics

The Ford Explorer ST 0-60 time impresses at just 5.3 seconds, a remarkable achievement for a three-row SUV with substantial passenger and cargo capacity. This acceleration puts it firmly in the territory of many dedicated sports cars while offering the practicality of a family vehicle.

Top speed is electronically limited to 230 km/h, sufficient for a performance SUV in this category. The balanced power-to-weight ratio ensures the Explorer ST feels nimble despite its size, with linear power delivery throughout the rev range.

Enhanced Driving Dynamics

The Ford Explorer ST performance isn’t just about straight-line speed. Ford engineers have comprehensively upgraded the suspension system with sport-tuned dampers, stiffer springs, and larger stabilizer bars. These modifications significantly reduce body roll during cornering while maintaining ride comfort for everyday driving.

The all-wheel-drive system features intelligent torque vectoring that continuously monitors driving conditions and distributes power accordingly. This system, coupled with a limited-slip rear differential, ensures optimal traction in various driving scenarios from slippery conditions to spirited cornering.

Performance Braking System

Complementing the impressive power output is a robust braking system featuring large-diameter ventilated disc brakes. The front callipers are painted in striking red, highlighting the performance credentials of this SUV. The braking system provides excellent stopping power, with minimal fade after repeated hard stops.

Advanced Driving Modes

The Ford Explorer ST features an advanced drive mode system, allowing drivers to select from multiple profiles that alter throttle response, transmission shift points, steering effort, and stability control intervention. In addition to the standard modes, the ST features a dedicated “Sport” mode that sharpens responses for spirited driving and an “ST” mode that unlocks the full performance potential.

Ford Explorer ST Tune Options

For enthusiasts seeking even more performance, the Ford Performance Tune Explorer ST program offers additional enhancements that can be installed through authorized dealers. These Ford Explorer ST tune packages can increase power output while maintaining the factory warranty. The calibration adjustments optimize air-fuel ratios and boost pressure to extract additional performance from the already potent powertrain.

Efficiency Despite Performance

Despite its performance credentials, the Ford Explorer ST maintains reasonable fuel economy. The Ford Explorer ST fuel economy ratings show a combined consumption of approximately 11.2 L/100 km, with highway efficiency improving to around 9.8 L/100 km when cruising at steady speeds. The Ford Explorer ST mpg equivalent demonstrates that performance and efficiency aren’t mutually exclusive.

Exhaust System and Sound Profile

The Ford Explorer ST exhaust system has been carefully engineered to provide an engaging soundtrack that enhances the driving experience without becoming intrusive during everyday driving. The quad exhaust tips, finished in polished stainless steel, look impressive and contribute to the distinctive exhaust note.

Acoustic engineers have tuned the sound profile to deliver a deep, authoritative tone under acceleration while using active noise cancellation technology to minimize unwanted drone during highway cruising.

Reliability Considerations

The Ford Explorer ST reliability ratings continue to improve with each generation. The latest model benefits from several engineering refinements designed to enhance long-term durability under performance driving conditions. The cooling system has been upgraded to maintain optimal operating temperatures even during extended high-performance driving scenarios.

2025 Ford Explorer ST: Performance and Convenience

The Ford Explorer ST represents the pinnacle of the Ford performance SUV engineering. It successfully combines exhilarating driving dynamics with the practicality and versatility expected from a three-row SUV. The impressive horsepower, acceleration capabilities, and handling refinements position it as a compelling option for enthusiasts who require the space and functionality of an SUV without sacrificing driving enjoyment.

Whether tackling daily commutes or weekend adventures, the Explorer ST delivers performance that inspires confidence while maintaining the comfort and convenience that have made the Explorer nameplate an enduring success in the SUV market.