Is the 2025 Ford Explorer ST the BEST new performance midsize SUV to BUY?

FIRST LOOK: The Explorer is getting some big changes from Ford for 2025. On the outside of the ST you will discover an all new grill and front fascia, large 21in wheels & big brakes. On the inside there is a 13.2in infotainment system screen, sport seats and panoramic sunroof. Under the hood is a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 pumping out 400HP & is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2025 Ford Explorer ST the BEST new performance midsize SUV to BUY?
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videography: Lori Raiti 🎥

[@RaitisRides]

Stay tuned for a ton of reviews from the Chicago Auto Show! Lori & I made to bust out butts for you!

[@chrisgelo1425]

Joe and Lori, thank you for all your hard work! I can tell you guys got only two days to film all this content, which is crazy!

[@RaitisRides]

@@chrisgelo1425we technically had just one full day & 2 hours the next day. 😮

[@chrisgelo1425]

@@RaitisRides Jeez wa Weez Raiti. Always impress 👌 💯

[@davidp2888]

I appreciate your grind, Joe, Lori and Stephen!

[@mr.bosstang8363]

I heard a timberline model is in the lineup also.

[@RINGOTVReactions]

I just purchased a 2024 Ford Explorer ST for my Family. This SUV is a Beast and look super cool.

[@kingbrutusxxvi]

I'm not religious but THANK GOD they fixed that dang screen. The vertical iPad made this a "no go" for me the last few years but now I might need to reconsider. Another great post, Joe. Cheers.

[@sha22276]

Ford usually ruins a car model with something dumb when they first bring it and then after the facelift they solve the issues but everyone has lost interest. Then they repeat this for the next gen.

[@Habibivech]

Hopefully one day u gonna find GOD

[@JGisMe2013]

1000% agreed!

[@jeffgood1580]

Agreed. I might actually buy this one depending on quality. I have a 19 sport that I really like and I’m not willing to get an ST with a vertical tablet looking screen

[@demsareunamerican6800]

LMFAO, you're worried about a screen, yet you don't care how much value is lost in 6 months. 20k. That's Porsche 911 Turbo value lost. Except a 911 Turbo is 200k.

[@user-ix5wr5vf1v]

Like the new infotainment screen! Horizontal landscape screen is much better than vertical.

[@natedenomme7774]

I think black ford emblems would look super cool on this

[@alexrattner]

Agreed

[@Jcruzer70]

Pretty sure you can option them for a bit of extra $$

[@Elcocorococ]

Dont worry, dealerships are taking care of that for an extra $2500

[@detectivebutler336]

For some reason I only think they make them standard/available on the Timberline trims

[@user-lv8gz9cu5w]

I’ll do it myself for $250 lmfao

[@temekapickett1811]

You are so right about painting that part. I do agree.

[@tombrown7577]

I had a couple of Explorers back in the 80"s before I switched to the Expedition. It's about time they updated this model. Would have been nice if they painted the outside wheel wells. The inside is great and I like the soundbar going across the dash for us hard of hearing rockers from the 70's &80's! Great review!

[@dominickirkwood]

Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video real true 👍

[@aramis8231]

Love it, Joe. Great car and excellent review as always 👏

[@CraigNelson-lm9wy]

I see the Mustang GTD in the background 😩 So fire!

[@Blvck3]

First ford explorer with the tail lights integrated into the tailgate, love the look

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Amazing review Joe.

[@theKiddAlways]

thanks Joe I was trying to eat healthy but I went out and bought the usual healthy stuff and 2 boxes of twinkies. love this channel and the reviews

[@duster34075]

The exhaust dumps down like that because if it didn’t, the whole back of the car would get caked in carbon like my focus st does

[@lucian7182]

I call bs, they made it that way because years ago they had issues with exhaust fumes getting into the car, a bunch of police got sick. The precaution just carried over. I have an after market turbo back on my wife’s white Explorer ST and there is 0 carbon build up on the bumper.

[@davidp2888]

The color's nice. I'm looking forward to what else you have to show us.

[@dayoffheroes]

I actually like how the exhaust points down. Not a zonk for me.

[@drewwallace2009]

Great video! Best car reviewer!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Drew for being so supportive!

[@SupremePaulie]

Our boy Raiti doesn’t miss

[@guillermopacheco5005]

I have a 2020 Explorer ST and it’s the best long trip family car I’ve ever had

[@stavroslask1292]

You haven’t driven a Land Cruiser

[@guillermopacheco5005]

@@stavroslask1292 no I haven’t , I don’t buy big heavy vehicles with four cylinders

[@stavroslask1292]

@@guillermopacheco5005 2024 Land Cruiser isn’t even for sale yet! My 1994 Land Cruiser is still going 477,000 miles! 30 years!

[@Honoer]

I have a 2021. But I hate to say it, your drive a newer f150 or expedition youll see what really is the king of comfort for road trips. My wife always wants to take my truck over her st if we go anywhere.

[@AkronKid330]

​@@Honoerf150s are the best for road trips.

[@jeffs6090]

I saw you guys videoing the Escalade IQ in the background of Kyle's walk around the show video!

[@9trf690]

Looks really good! When I see these in all black I always want one 🔥

[@christophercheek8464]

I agree with you Joe on the styling on the front. Don’t like the fender cladding as well. I do wish they would’ve given it a little bump in HP. Overall, especially given the price point. A nice package!

[@lucian7182]

If you want a power bump spend 1500-2k and get an intercooler and tune, you’ll get a sizable bump in whp and tq.

[@johnraisbeck9756]

Does it have a HUD? Is the hood held up with a stay rod or damper? Nice review!

[@steveparedes3296]

Great video, I really liked the new design on the explorer

[@chiefordnance]

Like the 20-24 grille If the want the turbo air colder upgrade and enlarge the intercooler instead of using the EDGE 1. Yes paint fender flares. Add back glove box and arm console lights.

[@davehightower3570]

After watching your presentation on the 25 ST, earlier this week. My wife and I drove to R E Barber Ford in Holland, and put an order in for the loaded ST. I included the Black feature in the top and the A & B pilers. I’m disappointed in one item, we ordered it in the Rapid Red color and I want chrome rims on this awesome vehicle so it will look even better than those painted rims. I’m excited to get it.

[@chiefordnance]

I have a 20' and a 21' ST 1 for me and wife. They have the best damn brakes I ever had on any vehicle we have the Steet Performance package on both. Glad they updated wireless charging my phones won't fix in older years.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that ownership input!

[@pedrogriffin1934]

Hey Joe are the AC vents still on above? Really liked that set up as air hit you right on the face.

[@philfeist2127]

THE BUSINESS BABY!

[@iNeverHadMercy]

Damn Joe u grind harder than a Robot 🥊🍻 And shout out to Ford for their new Interior Tech.....looking great 💯💰

[@mjflit]

The interior upgrades are almost perfect. They should have gotten rid of that weird ledge under the buttons and put the wiresless charger in that flip up console (and made that a bit bigger). No physical HVAC buttons is a HUGE miss, ruined the whole update for me with that screw up.

[@davonne225]

Yes the fenders should’ve had the body color for sure. I would still pick the Telluride over this, they should bring back Eddie Bauer edition or at least King Ranch with two tone paint job

[@briandenisefarmer333]

I am impressed with the new design. Interior dash is excellent and the sound bar integration is a great unique and all alone design by Ford. Nobody else thought of it or have it. Exterior looks good too. My only zonk I can think of is that third row legroom. Looks like it’s still about an inch or more less legroom than the Grand Highlander, new Traverse, and Honda Pilot. But still a good looking SUV that will definitely sell!

[@wentworthharris3120]

I’m loving the ST now but the only gripe is the plastic cladding

[@2Ls4_Cjay]

This is a beautiful suv and I’m a Chevy guy but the only zonk i do have is the flat black fender wells i would rather for them to color match them

[@user-lv8gz9cu5w]

Almost pushes you to get black cause it doesn’t look as bad

[@lagrant3914]

Definitely wish they would've color matched the fender flares!! 😕 other than that... 🔥🔥🔥

[@marksix3027]

I agree. I hate that almost every new vehicle from all the manufacturers are doing that. I guess because it's cheap. I'm going to have a hard time choosing a new vehicle in about three years if this trend continues.

[@rumplefuorskin5980]

I work at a dealership and have been blessed with a demo perk so I have driven freely in all the new SUV models, from Escapes to Bronco Sports, Explorers and Expeditions. Ford has done so well on these 24s and 25s cramming as much bang for your buck as you can get, technology especially! At the age of 35 however, I feel like an old senile senior that is inflexible to change and forced to get with the ages to learn the digital touchscreen climate controls. IMO it requires taking your hand and eyes off the wheel longer than the old knobs under the centerstack which in my opinion were easier to use and safer. At least until you get enough reps in for it to become muscle memory anyway. But all jokes aside though, the value in these Fords is insane!!!

[@ea6718]

You are too funny! Love your reviews!

[@Everythingonwheelz1]

Really beautiful suv am loving it!

[@dougfriedrichsen8004]

Love it. Love the length being under 200 inches!! And still tow over 5,000 lbs! You missed the vibrating seats. Gonna order one as soon as it's available!

[@ntx_prophoto817]

I own a 2020 st street pack, I love the new looks of the 25 not a fan of none projector Headlights for the cost so I'll make the switch to the ranger raptor with dual projector Headlights

[@gibreezy]

I’m not sold on the layout of that new digital gauge cluster with the map taking up almost the entire screen, also no one has yet to show CarPlay integration or what that would look like in the gauge cluster and also in the infotainment. Hoping someone does this soon!!! I’ll have to see if the gauge cluster is customizable I prefer the album art up on the left and the speed in the middle, don’t need the google maps if I’m not even using that for navigation

[@shamilleharrell8091]

🔥2025 Ford did great! I'm a Ford gal for years, I might have to give up my 2018 for this. Love the video thanks.

[@cormaro1376]

You’re a fool if you’re getting a new ford , you got lucky with your 2018 , do so more research and come back to that thought

[@AllAccessConstruction]

Me 2..😊😊

[@computingsupportllc1889]

I use to own two 2020 explorer st look awesome and unique with black out wheels. This new explorer looks like old explorer and crossover with other brands…

[@omarcortes5754]

Love the design, pretty sure the performance is algo great. Feeling tempted.

[@dansievers5915]

Hi Joe, I actually don't mind having these dark fender flares. It gives the vehicle a dark look at the bottom all the way around. Second: Great video. It seems to me you guys are a good team, doing an outstanding job. That's why people love your video's.

[@Honoer]

A solid improvement over the old one. Really wanted to see some sort of active exhaust/steering/suspension adjustment options like on other performance ford products. Along with metal paddle shifters on the steering wheel. My two zonks. Apart from that the interior is miles better.

[@jayjohnson8160]

I currently have a 2021 ST Explorer, fully optioned. Love it, but I really like the screens in this one. I think I will probably trade mine in late 2024

[@Twilightman-qf4bk]

Hey Raiti! are you gonna film the platinum one?

[@rd5140]

I have a 21 ST...bang for buck, cannot be beat. Just wish the new one had adaptive suspension.

[@johnblack4915]

And tune it to 650-700 hp 😊

[@alejandroestrada184]

Not bang for buck a lot better options in that price range

[@rd5140]

@alejandroestrada184 name them, I'll wait....make sure you start with the 400 hp tt with 10 spd auto, goooo

[@alejandroestrada184]

At 60k you can get bmws and Mercedes better quality for the money and I’m talking stock for stock no mods and can keep up and even beat ST Paying 60k just for 400hp with cheap material isn’t a bang for buck

[@rd5140]

Still waiting....400hp 3 row from merc/bmw....ty

[@DWH300]

From your review. I feel the 2025 Explorer ST is at the top of the mid size performance SUV segment when you consider it's over looks. Performance. The upgraded overall interior with it's new dual digital infotainment displays. The 2025 Explorer ST now includes many extras like the dual panel sun roof that were previous options making the 2025 Explorer ST a solid bang for the buck.

[@cormaro1376]

Just wait til that low quality shows 😂 it’s not rated the worst suv for a reason

[@brolic600lt]

Bang for your buck. Used 40k good buy. But compared to a jeep srt? Hell no

[@CaptainCJ97]

One of the rare few decent looking suv stll wouldn't own a suv tho. Looks less aggressive than the last one.The also 4:50 the random guy in the background just crawing

[@juve7]

Grreat price point for the power. Boom.

[@fjg109g6]

I like the redesigned interior but not digging that new grille…I much prefer the previous one…

[@cbjuice9621]

I’m not sure how annoying that sensor on the steering wheel would be but it sucks it’s not for active cruise as I first thought maybe another model will be compatible with the sensor

[@deonte19882]

I’m in a 2020 and I cant wait to upgrade to this 2025 this or in the year 2025 !!!

[@crossover8634]

I love the exterior style of the explorer but I wish they would take a page from the honda pilot book on the second row center console. Seat drops down for a nice arm rest with cup holders or you have the option to take it out.

[@Timalannovotny]

I like the navigation size, pano roof Lexus RX350 luxury offers the 14” screen though

[@MAGrimsley]

Where is your spare tire located on the ST?

[@gregpeterson6657]

Lookin sharp in the Puma Suedes Joe

[@carleenroth2799]

Where does front license plate go ?Colorado is strict on front & back plates ugh!

[@shetuukajosephine734]

How does this perform off-road? 4*4?

[@99zman]

Did they fix the rear diff issue?

[@radientproductions9799]

finally they improve the interior, worthy upgrade

[@66skate]

The update looks good. I like the new added Google tech. I wish they kept the black wheels. Those shout ST to me. On a black vehicle, these new one's stand out in a bad way.

[@user-sv1bb7zq2b]

Does the Ford Explorer ST have Bi-Function LED Projector Headlights?

[@Marklevit1998]

Hey Joe this ford explorer this is Awesome suv and i'm back

[@RaitisRides]

I was wondering what happened to you! I hope all is okay.

[@user-mj6yz4fk4e]

Nice review, BUT. WHEN are all the companys going to catch up to Jeeps nite vision with head up display... Such a nice option.

[@chikidd24]

This is one beautiful suv ❤🔥

[@imasikumbumwae9202]

This is one beautiful car. I'll need one next year. How much will it be.

[@sevenpaulperalta929]

The plastics on the lower part of the bodywork make it look low budget. Seat controls on the door panel seem more accessible and intuitive.

[@tambulee]

cant wait to drive this and experience the tech upgrade over my 2019

[@dharr6628]

As much as I hate those tablets on the dash, I must say this one looks pretty nice.

[@Cobra_Ken]

When are they going to put the Predator engine in one of these. Trackhawk who?

[@RaitisRides]

Now you are speaking my language!

[@dennisleiva9956]

What is the tow rating?

[@asbrandonsconcerned]

Beautiful color!

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this one.

[@iNeverHadMercy]

12:08 words of Wisdom.....frfr 💵

[@LuisUrbieta]

I love the 2025 Ford Explorer I think this is a dandy of am SUV.

[@lowKut]

It's a lovely SUV indeed, but I'm still drawn to the Durango V8 even though they haven't changed much but the minor refresh in the 2021 model and up got me.

[@gdcc1989]

I really like it, though I wish the climate controls were physical buttons instead of in the infotainment screen. Also, with the number of times you remark about having the rear glass wiper manufactured hidden, you'd think companies catch wind of this from other consumers and act on it.🤨

[@estherdeloach]

What’s the name of the exterior color Raiti?

[@jimthompson717]

I have a 2022 ST. I 'll get a 2025 in August.

[@shukrielmazi5272]

I agree with the fenders, they need to be painted. Also the rear wiper…they should have taken it from the nautilus and tucked it underneath the spoiler. Otherwise I really like the ST model. Thanks for the video, love watching these prior to deciding on a new vehicle.

[@lifeinindianaru6362]

it looks very good! high level

[@noelbgood8845]

I have always loved this car

[@Sticks1680]

Anyone know if you can swap the factory 21 tire and rim for 20s?

[@RaitisRides]

That is a great question. I am sure that that is easy to do.

[@paulplacek5642]

It's got cop shocks! Does it have SCMODS?

[@tylerconnely7477]

Hope they fixed the transmission and electrical issues🤞🏻

[@lucian7182]

Transmission is simple swap out the initial fluid early, like 10-15k miles so you can make sure it’s full, get a good tune. Issues solved.

[@wantapgt]

I think it looks a little bit less aggressive than the previous. The interior is a big step up.

[@alanklaus7774]

Much improved. Still a Ford at heart. Great job at the show.

[@MUSIC5628]

The ST events are so fun! I had no idea I was getting this when I bought my 22 wasn’t gonna do the event went literally the last event date I qualified for and wish I didn’t it sooner. Did the Performance Racing School too that was so much fun too! YES so tired of the plastic black fender flares they keep getting smaller but stop already paint it. People HAVE to send in their comments and complaints or it won’t change. I send my uncle messages all the time as an engineer for Ford to go to the dpt that designed this or this and ask WHY?! 😂 I am glad they turned the large screen with this model I chose the small screen when I built mine because the larger one went vertical it was stupid. AND the change for the wireless charging it was in the middle console and didn’t fit a large phone I’ve used it once because I had no other charger that day.

[@landycalrissian]

I think the interior looks really good. For me, even more tasteful than other models from "luxury" brands

[@JR-playlists]

I like the contrast of the black wheel fender lips on the ST, not the Platinum though....

[@bxp1696]

I think the matte fender flares adds to the sport theme. I personally prefer that look because it actually gets scratched up sometimes from gravel that flies up with the spirited driving (because its ST)/. I think 56/58K is a good price considering Honda charges 50K for a Pilot (which has alot less features, and not unique at all in any way). I would prefer the manual HVAC controls. You're not stuck with no heat when display goes bad (even if its under warranty).

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Yeah of course Joe & I will try to afford this.

[@lostlothbrok7156]

I like the new face-lift, the square grill is a much better look for Ford as a whole

[@josephleader3353]

What color is that?

[@kennetho5393]

I like the wheels on the ST and think it is the best in class. If I was buying though the interior on the Platinum is better and would add the 3.0 V6 Ecoboost.

[@vonte88]

I love the design of the wheels different color maybe

[@jd8690]

Love that new ST explorer!