Is the 2025 Ford Explorer the BEST new 3-row midsize SUV to BUY?

FIRST LOOK: The Explorer is getting a redesign from Ford. This SUV competes with the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Mazda CX-90, Chevrolet Traverse, Subaru Ascent and Dodge Durango. On the outside you will see a new look with center large grill, 21in wheels and 2-tone paint job. On the inside you will be greeted by a new 13in infotainment system, 12.3in digital gauge cluster and upgraded materials. Powering the Explorer is either a 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 or 3.0L twin-turbo V6. Is the 2025 Ford Explorer the BEST new 3-row midsize SUV to BUY?
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[@FacuGonz3]

What I like is that they didn't change it a lot, they just improved it, specially the infotaiment system.

[@armandoarmenta1942]

Totally agree! The interior needed a update and that’s what they did!!

[@jeffreywhite4091]

exactly

[@jerrywoolfolk7963]

I think I'm gonna trade my 2020 in for this

[@cormaro1376]

Now if only they made reliably better 😂 , the idiot with a 2020 should trade for a better brand

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

That’s the problem. The 6th gen is widely regarded as the worst Explorer ever made. They need to make a massive overhaul to make it class leading.

[@bryanwashington9511]

Fun fact the Explorer name originates back to the 5th gen F100 trucks as a special edition based on trims including paint colors, interiors, and badging. Thanks Joe and Lori for the early morning upload!

[@joeallencaseres2035]

Good to know 👍

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome Bryan’ thanks for the history lesson!

[@RaitisRides]

@@joeallencaseres2035yes indeed

[@AN-jx4js]

I have come across many reviews of this explorer in the past, but I must say that your review stands out from the rest. Your style is clear and concise, making it easy for your fans to understand the key points you are trying to convey. Your attention to detail and thorough analysis of the explorer's features and functionality is impressive. It is evident that you have taken the time to thoroughly research and test the explorer, providing valuable insights for potential buyers. Overall, I must commend you for your excellent review, and I am confident that it will help many people make an informed decision about this explorer. Great job!

[@sonalmalhotra07]

Great reveiw Joe. Best wishes to you, Lori and Stephen. Thanks it is so entertaining and to see how vehicles have evolved.

[@chabbysrides]

Looks great Joe! They just killed 2024 Explorer sales. Can’t wait to see this one. Great job! Thanks for bringing it to us.

[@johnabreu5699]

They know that it will hurt the 2024 sales. They will just produce less and in June around there they will retool anyway for the 2025 Explorer anyway. So it doesn’t really matter to them. Now who ever buys a 2024 will be getting great deals.

[@cormaro1376]

Still dealing with low quality and recalls 😂

[@danaberman6929]

Another great review from the two best in the business.... HI Lori. As always, you get all the right angles and know exactly what to do with the camera. I am ot a fan of the new dash. Too bad they could not integrate the screen in a little better. It looks like it was an after thought like so many others. My new Ram 2500 Power Wagon has the screen integrated so much nicer. My wife's Durango also has a better integrated screen.

[@TheBeagle58]

Great Job with the presentation, as always, as only you can do them.Kudos

[@EliTheOne26]

Great, a new headlight type to remember. 😂👍🏻

[@Mshi-]

LMFAO I get so scared seeing a black explorer

[@MalikRashed]

Especially with the police 😂

[@Kilo1158]

The police package isn't changing the front end or back end with the refresh. It's going to be the same as the current gen.

[@michaelsheedy]

You can tell Ford simplified the assembly operation around the dashboard so that there is no sections to misalighn like before. Smart engineering.

[@bobbyjones2112]

Definitely the best looking Ford Explorer I have seen in a long time! They upped the game fit and finish wise.

[@RaitisRides]

I would have to agree with you!

[@majinbuu19831]

Are you a girl or something how can you say this one looks the best they took the power and toughness of the Ford Explorer St 2024 and soccer mom van it up

[@agustingarcia8351]

Great review as usual Joe. Thanks for all the info. I love the ford explorer❤

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome! Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@IsraelForeal]

Beautiful 🙌🏾

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that you think so

[@davejones1959]

Hopefully they fixed the back up camera issue. Also added the ability to boot into Sport Mode and remember it on restart. I have a tuned 2022 ST.

[@lieslgiorgio8450]

Hey Joe, nice review. Question! At the 20 minute mark, what is that on top of the steering column?

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

Amazing review Joe.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Yes of course Joe and can't wait to buy one.

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that you are excited for this one!

[@cesarmauricio8079]

Is the massaging seat standard or is it exclusive?

[@stevedolan5065]

I have a 2016 Explorer Sport with 95K miles on it. I’ve towed a boat with it quite a bit and the only issue has been the AC compressor, which was replaced under warranty. The eco boost twin turbo drives and tows like V8. I’ve been A Chevy guy since I was a kid. My first car was a 57 Chevy. I don’t care for my local Ford dealership, but have no complaints about the vehicle.

[@maddie35567]

Superb as ever. Love the channel ❤️

[@johnferreyra17]

Sold! I've found my next vehicle!! Thank you Joe!!

[@joeblow-xy3oz]

enjoy the recalls

[@Notfiveo0]

@@joeblow-xy3ozsad😅😅

[@demianv751]

Hey Joe , do you know if with the newer ST models if the Heat Exchanger was upgraded? I know that the previous models have the Ford Focus ST Heat Exchanger which is pretty small for a SUV .

[@cormaro1376]

You’re still buying trying to buy this trash ? 😂 just stay away from

[@MercOne]

The ST looks pretty good.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@jessyhavron2548]

Looks like a Hyndai Santa Fe. Must have copied the Koreans.

[@awesomecatvideos4723]

You know that's funny all these automakers copy each other. I thought Hyundai was the biggest copycat though ​@@jessyhavron2548

[@obedjimenez4229]

⁠@@jessyhavron2548Santa Fe? This looks nothing like the Santa Fe.

[@RyanPannu90]

What a beauty, it might be time to upgrade my Ford Edge into this new explorer!

[@michaelsheedy]

Great review Joe.

[@nevilmarquez6366]

I love the color and design. Can't wait to test drive one

[@AkronKid330]

I want! All they needed to do was change the display in the dash, and I would be good with it!

[@leafs2994]

Was that ventilated seats ? I saw on screen above the heated seat? Icon on screen

[@tyarnell6659]

Thats an amazing ride, looks good

[@bdawg8907]

I had no issues with my 2015 Limited, a friend had a 2014 XLT and it was a lemon. I like the looks of the 2024…but I’m gonna wait to take a 2025 4Runner for a ride. 😊

[@salvatoreruggiero33]

Great presentation joe! Love this new explorer

[@Cgee3]

I have a 2013 Explorer with 135000 miles. The reliability hasn’t been terrible. No major drivetrain or hvac issues. This 2025 update seems to have addressed and largely remedied the cheap interior look of the 2020 Explorer. I have my eyes set on the Toyota Grand Highlander but may give this a look also.

[@GoFast58]

I think this new explorer looks much better than the Toyota Grand Highlander.

[@DWH300]

There's hugh differences between a 2013 Explorer and the current 2023 version from interiors to the way the vehicle rides, handles and performs. The new. Model takes the Explorer to the next level in design, luxury and technology with the ST adding solid performance.

[@bcomingCanNoy]

It looks like Pathfinder Joe. As always nice Job!

[@MrJT07]

Does it come with HUD?

[@dr.sherifsoliman8576]

Thanks Joe! Very detailed. I was thinking of buying a used ‘21 or ‘22 but this looks like it’s worth waiting for. It is also worth mentioning that it is available with blue cruise according to Ford’s website.

[@cormaro1376]

Just go buy a Toyota , Mazda or honda already , you’re just going to be in service bay with this one 🤦‍♂️ why Americans still think domestic are good is beyond me lol

[@user-qm4ew6eg8q]

I ordered a white one in the Platinum model. I currently drive a 2016 black Platinum model and love it.

[@cabrownd2nd]

Brother you are hilarious! Jealous of the Crayon case…Banana holder 😂😂😂😂

[@andrew70112]

The ST is above the Platinum, or did they change that? Only the King Ranch trim was above the ST.

[@CemEmreBurus]

Thank you. Any news on the Everest coming to USA?

[@icymayne]

I love my 2015 limited model and now finally they made the rear look sexy for the explore.

[@sickset]

Interior and the tail lights were my only main gripes about the current gen and glad they addressed those. It looks great. We have the gen before this one (2017 Sport) and despite being a sport suspension it is so much rougher than our X5 50i M-Sport, also with a sport suspension. Have to drive the current gen to see how the ride quality is. Love the ST but that may be too harsh with a family.

[@grampageorge3407]

Nice but are they ever going to be in the dealerships?

[@Sam-pf9pu]

Definitely some great improvements. I was hoping they would add the screen like in the Chinese model or the new nautilus but still great improvements from the previous model

[@tech489]

I’m on my second explorer the most reliable vehicle I ever owned. When I was looking for a new car I purchased another one. Ford makes excellent SUV’s

[@cormaro1376]

😂😂😂😂😂 I laugh my a** off completely when u said that cause your comment is a massive joke 😂 Ford doesn’t make reliable anything , the amount of recalls and engine replacements needed for this model say so otherwise , good job trying to believe domestic is reliable tho , the smart people know which ones are

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

While I’m glad you have a reliable one. The Explorer is one of the most unreliable vehicles made today. I’m a warranty claims administrator and this vehicle has one of the highest rates of repairs of any modern vehicle. Buyer beware.

[@Darkbaboon]

Nice review as always, exited for the changes, can’t wait to see it in Q2. P.s. you might want to consider mounting a light (like what they had in this explorer lol) on the cam so it can capture more details of the interior. Similar issue found in the CX70 review.

[@loriraiti4924]

I actually do have a panel light on the camera in both videos.

[@Darkbaboon]

@@loriraiti4924 it’s Lori!!!!!!!! lol. Let’s blame the “secret studio”. Liked you guys the most and appreciate the great and informative videos and efforts. Good luck!!

[@loriraiti4924]

@@Darkbaboon thank you!! Believe me, lighting is my pet peeve. I did all I could for the Mazda video 😅

[@lauracebula3222]

@@loriraiti4924love the excitement joe puts out in your videos, but I do wonder if your light panel just doesn’t throw the lumens far enough. Even the bar ones they have in the car didn’t throw much light at all beyond a couple feet. Yeah the lights themselves are blinding bright, but that’s about it . I saw another reviewer’s video that had a lot more lighting hitting the cx70 cargo area, so I’m not sure what kind of lighting they used, and it answered a few questions that I couldn’t tell from yours. Looking forward to more midsize SUV reviews!

[@Darkbaboon]

@@lauracebula3222 maybe another 5 extra horsepower will boost the lumen

[@kiingofclutch]

Does the platinum come with the same performance as the ST or only luxury options?

[@jeromejerome940]

Platinum and st has same 400hp

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

The Platinum will no longer come standard with the V6. It will come with the 2.3 4 cylinder. There will be an option for the V6, however.

[@Kilo1158]

It's good to finally see the Explorer's get some new technology after being stuck with Sync 3 for years.

[@njj322422]

Shoutout to the 551 can’t wait to build these

[@JOHNLITCHFIELD-vn4wk]

G'Day Joe: Thanks for the overview - I was happy to see that the 2025 model has memory seat selection. My current 2019 (7) seater top of the line model does not - However you did not share if this 2025 new model has the electric fold in exterior door mirrors (mine does not) I must admit its very annoying that the Pax & Driver side does not fold in or out electrically (only Manually) - In fact I keep a 'walking stick' in the SUV so I can open the Pax window and flick the Pax mirror - Lol - I have been in the limousine business for 25 years I have owned literally dozens of different vehicles (Even owned Range Rovers part of a fleet) I'm really looking forward to buying the new 2025 Platinum model after your review. of course mine will be Black On Black !!

[@davonne225]

Love the two tone. Those wheels are on point. Love the interior. B&O sound bar is very unique and tasteful. Steering wheel is nice but horn button definitely needs work.

[@igeekone]

By far, the infotainment looks day and night better than the last one. It's a beautifully big and high resolution screen with, finally, proper processing. I hate that many automakers try to do a full touch experience with a low end processor. This looks buttery smooth. Can't wait to check it out in person.

[@kellymeade4587]

I think they hit a Grand Slam!!!Awesome new touches…. love the new Design theme, inside and out! Sweet video as always… BIG Shoutout …to Lori on camera, doing a GREAT job …making everything, flow so Seamlessly!

[@sphillyfanatic7451]

Super sharp!!!!

[@nick.i.am97]

I truly approve this new Ford Explorer. Love the new Two-tone paint on the ST Line and the Interior is a nice Change

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

If they made two-tone paint available on other trims it’d be fantastic. A heritage model that brings back color schemes from the 1st generations of Explorers.

[@willd7157]

This is a worthy upgrade to the previous gen. I had my mind set on the previous gen ST, but the new ST line is making me reconsider.😅

[@anthonybaez52]

Wowwww so it’s a refreshed and updated

[@66skate]

Half hearted IMO. Looking at this and then looking at the China version is a big let down.

[@Brotherhood676]

Love the slits in the tail lights

[@dennwilliams3342]

Finally a pano roof in a explorer 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 and 21 in wheels !!! Huge upgrade interior this has been worth the wait. Explorer had to step it up to walk with the competition….

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Good looking car and a great presentation as always by Joe Raiti. Ford does the secret location for their cars better than anyone with the special lighting and the booties for your shoes.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your kind words and great insight

[@jimmyr1683]

Best looking wheels ever!

[@jimthompson717]

I have a 2022 Explorer St. I mostly love it, and the 2025 fixes the things I don't love about my current ST. So I may trade.

[@bluejayloyal2293]

I think the ST LINE is a bad idea. It takes away from the actual ST.

[@2Ls4_Cjay]

Lovely job with the design from Ford but if the flat black can be color match i will consider buying this 3.0 TT sounds fun to play Thanks for another great review Raiti

[@mystictk4149]

It looks really good as before and it still does now.

[@PRballer25]

On throttle here we go!

[@RaitisRides]

I can’t wait to bring it to you

[@ant9771]

It's perfect tbh. I just ordered the same truck.

[@montyburns2899]

When this redesign came out 3 years ago, it already looked like it was ready for a refresh. Now it looks just a little less tired.

[@ejohnson3131]

Great job reviewing this SUV Raiti! I wonder how ford gets away with copying a lot of their style lines from the Range Rover. I wish car manufacturers would stop making their infotainment system a floating tablet facing the back passengers. I like the OLED design integrated into the dashboard and facing the driver.

[@717xcrunner]

I had bought a 2021 Explorer, but I wasn't impressed with the features on my lower trim xlt. I'm excited to see all the updates on this new Explorer. it looks like Ford did a great job with the updated interior. the ST Line trim looks well equipped!

[@homarherrera2141]

Elegant Very Nice Ford 2025, Gratulation Raitis!!!! Gracias!!!!!!!🤩

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for letting me bring it to you

[@omarcortes5754]

A two row version would be fantastic but yes, this new Explorer looks really good.

[@igarrett113]

Since the Edge is being discontinued this year, they should make a two row version of the Explorer and revive Explorer Sport.

[@omarcortes5754]

@@igarrett113 that would be nice.

[@cormaro1376]

So would better reliability and not low quality parts

[@russllshannon1004]

I hope the infotainment screen has improved. Cause the past 2 explorers we have had, there has been huge problems with the screen.

[@waynelion-cachet35]

This looks really good.

[@a426108]

I really enjoy your car reviews …. “to the door panel.”

[@RaitisRides]

Thank you so much for being so supportive

[@joecool9739]

I love how Joe just pulls an Xbox controller out of nowhere 🤣 Damn thats a spacious little compartment (thats what he said)

[@JR-playlists]

Glad they didn't bite off too much to start with to help get it right job1. Would love to have a plug-in version to get to work silently! And then, as the name eludes too, a "Trail rated" Timberline to go Exploring in. Really sharp looking. Bring back the factory flush mounted entry keypad, a Ford exclusive that is so handy while Exploring the water.

[@rondellemitchell7543]

I love what they have done here, I just wish that the innovations that were on the top like park assist (for those who loved it) stayed, its always good to have the awesome options. That and making it more affordable.

[@MegaRetr]

The ST looks pretty good)))

[@scupking]

The side profile and hood is very similar to the Bronco Sport. It would be nice to use this platform for when they redesign the Bronco Sport and have it just 2 row.

[@Michael-ur5qb]

It would be a nice direction to take the Bronco Sport in but the current one is so small. Now that they are getting rid of the Escape and Edge I wonder if we will see a shorter and longer wheelbase Bronco Sport as well as two wheelbases for the Explorer.

[@scupking]

​@@Michael-ur5qb Yes it would be nice if the Bronco sport became something in-between the size of the Escape and Edge.

[@jonathanrodriguez6376]

Liking the Interior Refresh of the 2025 Ford Explorer overall.👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻✊🏼✊🏼✊🏼

[@MC-mz7cz]

Love the look and new techs but my concern is the reliability and the mpg…

[@RaitisRides]

You are not the first to say that!

[@noahsemyonov]

love ur content as always but isn’t that just the chinese market 2023 ford explorer minus the big screen that comes in the CN version ?

[@michaeloler1477]

I have never had a problem with any of the Explorers I have had and I have been driving them since they first came out.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so great to hear Michael.

[@cormaro1376]

Wow a lucky rock , u know there’s always a lucky rock doesn’t mean that excuses all the bad rocks that been recalled , engine replaced and much more lol

[@plem7210]

You must be super lucky. I had a 2002 explorer xlt. Whenever we had freezing rain. The plastic on the separate opening rear hatch would crack. I had to have it fixed three times. 35000 miles the timing chain started malfunctioning. Engine would miss when you hit the gas.

[@plem7210]

His quote “Michael Oler I wasn’t lucky, it’s sounds as if you were unlucky. I have been driving Ford vehicles since 1963 and never had any major issues. Like any Branford, not all are perfect.” Sounds like you might be a dealer. Or otherwise worked for ford. If all you ever drive is Fords. I am not brand loyal at all. After driving the same vehicle for 7 to 9 years. I will normally switch to a different brand. After having to replace my radiator at 65000 miles. On my dodge Durango. I am going to go to the Kia telluride. If I do not have major issues in 90000 miles. Maybe I will stick with Kia the next time. Minor issues with any brand. Is different than low milage major issues. Because I had issues with fords separate rear hatch plastic cracking . I looked at many other ford explorers on the road. I saw many with the same issue. Could be the reason ford stoped making those separate window hatchbacks.

[@amymoon6725]

Love it ❤

[@Steelers2841]

This looks sexy the 2nd Gen i love was 1995-2001 you could get the 5.0L V8 and you have the Eddie Bauer Package. Those were the best ever

[@RaitisRides]

The good old days!

[@mysticode]

I'd sure hope heated seats are standard! They were standard back in 2011 on my Hyundai Elantra!

[@triciap6006]

It looks like they got rid of the pinched butt end of the car. I don't understand why they do that. The Chevy Equinox has the pinched but now too. Is there a sunroof shade? I live in AZ and I can't imagine the panoramic sunroof during summer.

[@WaveManMike]

Am I the only one that thinks the new Ford Explorer and new Mazda CX-70 look similar from this angle? 😅

[@WaveManMike]

😮 Maybe a shared design from when they were together and this is both takes without even know 🤔

[@edwardvalivonis23]

Looks good

[@joecharmley]

The map is cool looks nice

[@tjkim382]

this looks very nice can u fit two adult at third row?

[@lstradamus]

Ford went above and beyond with this Explorer. I feel like the last two generations were too commercial. Joe, you hit this review out of the park

[@mohamme153]

So nice 🎉

[@aryehrosenthal2138]

Great review Joe. Only a Refresh not a redesign 2025 Ford Explorer.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for your points!

[@marcos223ful]

LMAOO I thought the grill was edited in the thumbnail like straightpipes be doing 😂

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Be doing?

[@terence4427]

It's nice to hear the transmission has been retuned. I can't wait to see if it improves the driving experience.

[@blackdeath1493]

Its a beautiful done suv, looks great, nothing too extra. The interior is beautiful, with the technology, new screens and materials. Ford always does it good

[@JackSmith-qi7dr]

Joe, Are there vents in the third row for the kiddos?

[@uperez71]

Little touches like the front lighting and the infotainment system go along way. Great job Ford on the 2025 Explorer. It’s a hit! Tks Joe

[@jasonjepsen7483]

As always, great video you guys! Ford knocked it out of the park with this! What a great looking vehicle! Let’s hope Ford knocked their quality issues out of the park as well.

[@atg1338]

It basically looks the same... how's that knocking anything out🤔

[@sentryion3106]

Just sit this next the palisade/ telluride and cx90 and suddenly this looks very unappealing. Hell the GH is more practical, looks more premium, more reliable and definitely gonna be more fuel efficient than this.

[@jasonjepsen7483]

The Palisade and Telluride are two of the most unattractive vehicles out there.

[@awesomecatvideos4723]

I really want an explorer but they're just getting more pricey. This new redesign starts at 41k while the previous started at 36k.

[@RaitisRides]

Very good points!

[@DailyRants89]

Unfortunately that’s about standard for a three row SUV these days. It will only keep getting more expensive.

[@cormaro1376]

You’re a idiot if buy this domestic junk 😂 do so more research