Review 2025 Ford Explorer ST – Is It the Ultimate Performance Family SUV?

[Admin]

If you're considering the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, here's a detailed overview of its performance, interior, technology, practicality, and the main pros and cons to help you decide whether it's the right SUV for you.​

Power & Performance​

• Engine & drivetrain: Standard twin‑turbo 3.0 L EcoBoost V6 → 400 hp & 415 lb‑ft torque, paired with a 10‑speed auto. RWD comes standard; AWD available
• Acceleration: 0–60 mph in ~5.1–5.4 seconds roomy SUV meets sports-car pace
• Handling: Sports‑tuned suspension and sharp steering deliver composed twisty-road behavior, yet the ride is firmer than other trims

Family-SUV Versatility​

• Seating & cargo: Three rows for 7 (captains chairs option go to 6), with 16.3 cu ft cargo behind row 3, expanding to ~85 cu ft folded
• Interior comfort: Sport seats with Miko suede/leather, heated/ventilated/massage front seats; heated second row; panoramic sunroof and rear sun‑shades available

Tech & Features​

• Infotainment: Huge Google-powered 13.2″ touchscreen, 12.3″ digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display offered, and high-end 980‑watt B&O sound system
• Drive aids: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, blind-spot alerts; optional BlueCruise hands-free highway driving

Considerations​

• Ride firmness: ST's suspension is performance-oriented can feel harsh over uneven roads
• Fuel economy: Estimated ~18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway; real-world owners cite ~16–17 mpg combined
• Trims & pricing: ST starts around $55.5 k MSRP; Platinum with V6 crossover; base Active starts ~41 k

Parent-Ready Spoiler​

This is a genuine sleeper performance SUV kid-safe, family-sized, but with muscle-car DNA. You'll enjoy spirited drives with family comfort intact think canyon runs before the soccer game. Just note the stiffer suspension and real-world fuel usage are trade-offs for the extra excitement.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST offers a compelling combination of strong performance, modern technology, and genuine family practicality. It isn't the softest or most fuel-efficient SUV in its class, but for buyers who value driving enjoyment without giving up three-row versatility, it remains one of the strongest choices available in 2025.

Have you driven the new Explorer ST? Share your impressions, fuel economy, or ownership experience below.

 

[George]

Great overview. One thing I'd add is that the Explorer ST really seems like one of those SUVs you need to experience in person before deciding.

On paper, the 400-hp EcoBoost V6 is incredibly appealing, but the firmer suspension and higher fuel consumption may not suit everyone's daily driving. For some buyers, those trade-offs are absolutely worth it, while others may find that a lower trim better fits their needs.

I also think it's worth taking an extended test drive rather than just a quick spin around the dealership. A longer drive gives you a much better feel for ride comfort, cabin noise, seating position, visibility, and how the transmission behaves in everyday traffic.

For owners who have been driving the 2025 Explorer ST for a while, what has been your biggest positive surprise or biggest disappointment? Real-world experiences are often more valuable than any spec sheet.

 

[Peter]

Great overview. One thing I'd add is that the Explorer ST really seems like one of those SUVs you need to experience in person before deciding.

On paper, the 400-hp EcoBoost V6 is incredibly appealing, but the firmer suspension and higher fuel consumption may not suit everyone's daily driving. For some buyers, those trade-offs are absolutely worth it, while others may find that a lower trim better fits their needs.

I also think it's worth taking an extended test drive rather than just a quick spin around the dealership. A longer drive gives you a much better feel for ride comfort, cabin noise, seating position, visibility, and how the transmission behaves in everyday traffic.

For owners who have been driving the 2025 Explorer ST for a while, what has been your biggest positive surprise or biggest disappointment? Real-world experiences are often more valuable than any spec sheet.

One thing worth watching on the 2025 ST is the 10-speed transmission. Some owners have reported a noticeable hard or delayed 1–2 shift, especially when cold. If it starts doing it consistently, I’d have the dealer check the fluid level and adaptive transmission values before assuming it’s a mechanical failure. Sometimes a relearn/reset can make a surprising difference.

Anyone here experienced this on their 2025 ST?