The Ford Explorer has long been a staple in the SUV market, known for its versatility, performance, and family-friendly features. As we compare models, focusing on their top trims, we’ll explore the evolution of this popular vehicle and the enhancements Ford has introduced.

 

Design and Exterior

2025 Ford Explorer

The new version of this Ford SUV introduces a refreshed design, marking a significant update from its predecessor. The new model sports a redesigned front fascia, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. The top trim, which is the Platinum model, showcases the best of Ford design language.

Key exterior features of this Explorer Platinum include:

• New 21-inch Style 5109, Satin Dark Grey wheels
• LED headlights with signature Daytime Running Lights
• Redesigned grille and front bumper
• Sliding panoramic roof
• Flush deployable door handles

2024 Ford Explorer

While still a handsome SUV, this model carries the design language from the previous generation. The top trim is also the Platinum model, which shares many premium features with its newer model.

Notable exterior elements of this Explorer Platinum include:

• 21-inch premium aluminum wheels
• LED signature lighting
• Satin aluminum finish grille
• Hands-free, foot-activated liftgate

While both models exude a premium presence, the latest redesign gives it a fresher, more contemporary look that may appeal to those seeking the latest in automotive design.

Interior and Comfort

2025 Ford Explorer Platinum

The Explorer Platinum elevates interior luxury with several enhancements:

• Extended Leather Upgrade
• 20-way massage front seats with driver memory and rear power recline
• Heated and cooled front seats
• Perforated Windsor leather seats
• Four-zone Climate Control
• Configurable ambient interior lighting

The new model also introduces a new 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen as standard across all trims, significantly upgrading the infotainment experience.

2024 Ford Explorer Platinum

This Explorer Platinum also offers a luxurious interior, but with some differences:

• Tri-Diamond perforated leather seating surfaces
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Heated second-row seats
• Leather-wrapped heated steering wheel
• 10.1-inch touchscreen display 

Both model years offer spacious interiors with three rows of seating, but the new model seems to edge out its predecessor in terms of premium features and technology integration.

Performance and Capability

2025 Ford Explorer

This Explorer Platinum comes standard with a powerful engine option:

• Twin-Turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6
• 400 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
• 415 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm
• 0-100 km/h acceleration in approximately 5.5 seconds
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

2024 Ford Explorer

This Explorer Platinum shares the same powerful engine:

• 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6
• 400 horsepower
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Available Intelligent 4WD

Both model years offer impressive performance figures, with the ability to tow up to 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) when properly equipped. The similar powertrains suggest that the driving experience between the two model years will be comparable regarding raw power and capability.

Fuel Efficiency

While exact fuel economy figures for the latest model are not yet available, we can look at the previous model for reference:

2024 Ford Explorer (3.0L EcoBoost V6)

• Combined fuel consumption: Approximately 11.2 L/100 km (21 mpg combined)

It’s reasonable to expect that the newer model will offer similar or slightly improved fuel efficiency, given continuous efforts to enhance performance and economy.

Technology and Infotainment

2025 Ford Explorer

The latest model year brings significant technological upgrades:

• Standard 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen across all trims
• Enhanced Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ system
• Available Ford BlueCruise (on ST-Line trim and higher)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 14-speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®

2024 Ford Explorer

The previous model, while well-equipped, lacks some of the latest features:

• 10.1-inch touchscreen display
• SYNC® 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 14-speaker B&O sound system
• FordPass Connect™ with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

The larger standard screen and more advanced driver assistance features give the new model a clear advantage in technology and infotainment.

Safety Features

2025 Ford Explorer

Safety is a priority, with advanced features including:

• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ suite
• Available Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0 package
• 360-degree camera system
• Available Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving system

2024 Ford Explorer

This model also offers comprehensive safety features:

• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360™
• Available Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+
• Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System

While both model years prioritize safety, the standard inclusion of more advanced driver assistance systems and the availability of BlueCruise put the newer version a step ahead in terms of safety technology.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Both models offer versatile cargo spaces, though exact figures for the latest model are unavailable. For reference, the previous Explorer provides:

• 515 liters behind the third row
• 1,356 liters behind the second row
• 2,486 liters behind the first row

Given the similar overall dimensions, it’s likely that the newest model will offer comparable cargo capacity, maintaining a reputation for practicality and versatility.

Ride and Handling

2025 Ford Explorer

This Explorer uses a rear-wheel-drive-based architecture, which is unique in its class for a mainstream SUV. This configuration provides:

• More balanced weight distribution
• Improved handling dynamics
• Better towing capability

The Platinum trim likely features an advanced suspension system for a smooth, comfortable ride while maintaining responsive handling.

2024 Ford Explorer

This model shares the same fundamental architecture, offering:

• Confident cornering abilities
• Comfortable ride quality
• Terrain Management System for various driving conditions

Both model years benefit from a commitment to delivering a driving experience that balances comfort with engaging dynamics, a hallmark of the lineup.

Trim Level Comparison

Ford has streamlined the new Explorer lineup to four trim levels:

1. Active

2. ST-Line

3. Platinum

4. ST

In contrast, the previous Explorer offered a more extensive range of eight trim levels:

1. Base

2. XLT

3. ST-Line

4. Timberline

5. Limited

6. ST

7. King Ranch

8. Platinum

The simplification of the new lineup suggests that Ford has consolidated features and options, potentially offering more value at each trim level.

The Ford Explorer: An Exceptional SUV

The new Ford Explorer represents a significant evolution of the popular SUV, building upon the strengths of its predecessor while introducing notable improvements in design, technology, and standard features. 

While the previous Explorer remains a capable and well-equipped SUV, the new updates make it a more compelling option for those seeking the latest automotive technology and design. The core strengths of performance, versatility, and family-friendly features remain consistent across both model years.

Ultimately, the choice between these models will depend on individual priorities. Those who value the latest technology, design, and safety features may find the new model more appealing. However, the previous model offers a comprehensive package that may represent better value for some buyers, especially if they prefer a wider range of trim options.

Regardless of the model year chosen, the Ford Explorer continues to uphold its reputation as a versatile, capable, and well-rounded SUV, suitable for a wide range of driving needs and lifestyles.