Here’s a full breakdown of the 2025 Explorer ST — a thrilling blend of performance and family utility, made for rad parents who want sporty vibes with three-row practicality:
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.
The 2025 Explorer ST is arguably one of the best sporty 3-row SUVs for parents seeking performance, tech, and practicality all in one. Rad looks, serious punch, and family-friendly layout. Just be ready for firmer suspension and thirstier fuel habits.
Want a direct comparison to the Platinum trim, or rivals like Kia Telluride X-Pro, Honda Pilot Elite, or Chevy Tahoe Z71? I can dive into that!
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 r
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.
Verdict
The 2025 Explorer ST is arguably one of the best sporty 3-row SUVs for parents seeking performance, tech, and practicality all in one. Rad looks, serious punch, and family-friendly layout. Just be ready for firmer suspension and thirstier fuel habits.
Want a direct comparison to the Platinum trim, or rivals like Kia Telluride X-Pro, Honda Pilot Elite, or Chevy Tahoe Z71? I can dive into that!