Is the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum twin-turbo V6 the BEST midsize luxury SUV?

[@irfanhusein1445]

My 2018 Explorer has 95,000 miles with zero problems. But when it’s time to replace mine I’d surely go for this one

[@Oneness100]

My dentist has an ST, same engine. He has it all murdered out in black on black, on black and he installed some LED light bar on top of the roof. He says people move out of the way because they probably think he's LE. LOL.

[@tech4nation121]

I got 2017 sport 401A with 130,000miles. Rides like brand new. Though I'm up on the maintenance. Parts are not that crazy expensive too

[@osemuohan-smarties5203]

Joe, you are UNSTOPPABLE!

[@RaitisRides]

That means the world brother!

[@KTR2020_1]

Excellent video (from Caledon, Ontario, Canada). I have been researching this exact vehicle for a while but recently the CX90 as well. I love the look of the CX90 but it definitely is not as well optioned out as this version of the Explorer. I recently watched a YT review from a mechanic who was concerned that the inline 6 on the CX90 is positioned so far back in the engine bay that a lot of potential engine repairs (timing chain etc.) would require removal of the engine (similar to an issue BMW had a while back). This Explorer does move well though lol. Thanks again for a great video!!

[@quantum_clips_]

We just bought the new Explorer it is super nice!

[@dominickirkwood]

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

[@buddyhume9297]

The blue oval lower back tattoo comment is next level 😂

[@dlamb4prez]

That one took me out lol

[@petekossaras1830]

Nice video! I just upgraded from a 2016 Explorer to a 2025 Platinum 3.0L. I agree 100% on the plastic trim around the wheel wells, almost bought a Grand Cherokee instead because of that. LOL I ended up getting it in Black so the plastic trim didn't stand out as much. Other than that so far I'm liking my new ride.

[@MarcusTurner-b5p]

Nice video keep up the great work Joe 22:32 22:33

[@dustinmorris13]

This is a great video, as usual. I am researching this vehicle for my next purchase. I love what they have done to it... minus the removal of the Hybrid. They better add that back in PDQ. I am disappointed they removed the buttons and knobs and added the functionality into the screen. The majority of people want buttons and knobs. I am also disappointed to see the removal of amber rear signals. We aren't in the 90s; amber rear signals are the preferred colour. Overall this is a great vehicle, and I would pick this over the CX90 any day!

[@fordTH7335]

No exhaust = better than fake exhaust tips! I read about the logic behind the design but it just kills it for me. Love the review Joe

[@arizonacolour8793]

and what is the logic?

[@fordTH7335]

@arizonacolour8793 i read that they did some research and customers were upset when their exhaust tips would get dirty. 🤷‍♂️

[@MurseTech64]

Great video, Joe. Classic car review! Nice!

[@RaitisRides]

You are freaking hilarious! Thanks for making me chuckle!

[@laurastevenson2567]

I have that exact SUV…. I totally LOVE it!!! The Rapid Red….is a sparkler!

[@williamclarke2020]

Joe, that is hotter than a 5$ pistol! I could drive that from here in Nova Scotia all the way to Florida for the Raiti Rides Family picnic. I'll bring the mustard.

[@alexmaclean1]

Hey, down in the valley here! I'll come too lol

[@williamclarke2020]

@@alexmaclean1 I'll pick you up along the way! Bring the ketchup! I'm from Sydney.

[@williammccrain8576]

Joe, you are awesome !!!!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for having my back man!

[@williammccrain8576]

Great video Joe and Steven

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very kind William

[@ryanhori6954]

That's a great looking SUV. No doubt plus its a platinum.

[@thembp4sho]

I remember when suvs and trucks were affordable for almost anyone. Now you have to be rich to own one 😂

[@blackchicagogent0224]

Actually the Explorer ST is the top trim package. I just purchased one!

[@Eyes_of_Oryx]

20-24 front facia looks best imo. The headlights look more aggressive ❤

[@dlamb4prez]

I think moving away from 4 Wheel drive is a major zonk. I love that about my ‘23. But as the infotainment was stuck in the stone ages, the ‘25 is a win. Does this one have a moonroof option like the last model? How does the massage compare? Do the upgraded materials change the sound levels inside the car?

[@BeyondOurEyes]

Hood looks so much cleaner without the stuck on Explorer letters 👍

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you

[@garys2157]

That was only certain models.

[@dlamb4prez]

20-24 platinums didn’t have the extra badging.

[@Thebuscommunityleader]

Yes of course & I buy this as my daily vehicle.

[@magnoliap5824]

Good looking vehicle and great horsepower! Needs more physical buttons. I’m driving the Pathfinder Platinum with heads up display and 4 door keyless entry, physical climate control buttons. 😂

[@davidp2888]

Nice color. Would also look great in dark green.

[@RaitisRides]

Eruption Green for sure David

[@davidabernathy4553]

You do not have to put the headdress down manually on the rear seat. All you have to do is push the button and they drop down automatically.

[@javy.airlines]

I Seem To Want One Of Those Ford Explorers In That Same Color🤔💭❤️🚙💨!!!

[@Irishmanbikes]

Hope you and Lori, Joe; are having lots of fun at SEMA!!!!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man! I can’t wait to share the cars with you from SEMA

[@georgearena7099]

had a 2020 st and just purchased a 2025 platinum with the 400 hp v6 instead of a new st. black with grey interior. absolutely enjoy the car. slightly softer ride than the st which is great for longer trips and the interior with the grey leather is much more expensive looking than the st's. too much black in the interior with the st. same great acceleration. much better infotainment system than the 2020. hvac controls are a bit of a pain being on the touchscreen. would have liked to get a heads up display and adaptive dampers but to do that had to go to an aviator for 15k more. not worth it as this dash is easy to read and the ride is a good compromise between firm and soft. for the money this car is impossible to beat if you like horsepower and the massaging seats are great for long trips. all the safety features work great as well.

[@thomasduquette3933]

I'm researching new cars to replace my 2019 Mazda CX-9 GT and am considering this SUV. According to Google the 2025 Explorer Platinum does come with a HUD. Here's what it says: Yes, the 2025 Ford Explorer has a head-up display that projects information onto the windshield. The head-up display is available on the Platinum and ST trim levels: Platinum This trim includes the SYNC 4A infotainment system, which offers voice-activated navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a head-up display. ST The ST trim includes a head-up display that projects important information like speed and navigation onto the windshield. It also has a Wi-Fi hotspot for connectivity. The head-up display can be customized to show different information depending on the driving mode. For example, in tow haul mode, the head-up display shows RPMs and speed, while in off-road mode, it shows pitch, roll, and transfer case information. To turn on the head-up display, you can: Press the Menu button on the steering wheel Use the down arrow to navigate to Head Up Display Press OK to select it Press OK again to turn it on You can also adjust the brightness, positioning, and content of the head-up display.

[@George-ux6zz]

Very nice SUV. HAPPY HALLOWEEN 🎃

[@mikesfifty]

Thanks for doing this video

[@MadMartiganz]

Curious, Is there any ride quality difference between a 2.3l active vs 2.3l platinum? Or is it all just materials and convenience features?

[@tpadave]

Absolutely should have a heads up! Otherwise love the ST! Does the platinum have a softer ride than the ST?

[@RaitisRides]

Yes it does

[@Aloosh-gt4oi]

I love your reviews keep it up brother ❤️

[@RaitisRides]

I can't do it without your support!

[@silverleafelectronics881]

You don't have to manually fold the rear headrests. They will drop automatically when you hit the button. FYI. Great review!

[@healtheahealth4755]

At least they still have the V6 unlike the others that rid of the V6. Thank you Ford

[@dlamb4prez]

It’s a twin-turbo V6, at that!

[@kovalm3]

Joe, I just can't stop laughing 😂😂😂 when you lay down the story before the price.

[@ReaversRespite]

I am currently test driving these mid-size SUVS for my wife's car (we have a military working dog that needs to be crated when riding). I've explained sizes of storage areas using Reese's Peanut Butter cups and Costco hotdogs. The salesperson looks at me like I'm insane, every time. 😂

[@WmONH]

CX90 or Explorer which is better ?

[@davonne225]

Right, flat black on fenders is major zonk on platinum trim and where is the tremor trim or the king ranch trim, come on Ford, prop rod on a platinum, oh wow

[@RaitisRides]

I know how you feel! No word yet on when those trims will be added

[@davidwolf226]

Joe, I've owned two Ford Exploders over the years, a 92 and a 2003. While I enjoyed both of these SUVs, their drivetrain problems were annoying to deal with. I hope Ford has finally addressed this issue since it has been a nuisance for many SUVs and trucks. This platinum edition is beautiful.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks David for sharing that real world ownership experience

[@FrunkensteinVonZipperneck]

Cops buy a lot of Explorers…

[@quantum_clips_]

The Explorers powertrains are WAY better than they were in the 90s and early 2000s!

[@danlewis4390]

Joe, would you choose this version of the Explorer or the ST version? Just curious because I’m going to be buying one soon and I value your opinion.

[@dlamb4prez]

I’ve got the ‘23 Platinum, and after test driving several of them both, the Platinum is more comfortable, and has more standard options. The moonroof and massaging/heated/ventilated seats for starters. Last model the biggest difference was the ST’s 400hp vs 375 or whatever it was in the Platinum, but now there’s no difference. The platinum is just more SUV, now.

[@EdgarJChavez]

YEAH real exhaust tips!!

[@Nystromj1]

Nice looking car ... but I just purchases a new Honda Pilot because it is just 6 cylinder ... not turbo, no hybrid. I don't want high maintenance!

[@dlamb4prez]

I’ve had mine for nearly 50k miles now, and haven’t had a single drivetrain/powertrain issue! These cars are comfy, luxurious, spacious, and fun to drive! You should go test drive one.

[@brandonh1133]

@@dlamb4prezwhich trim level do you have? And the twin turbo V6?

[@dlamb4prez]

@@brandonh1133 The 23’ Platinum, and yes the TTV6.

[@brandonh1133]

@ thanks. I just picked up the 2025 ST last night cherry red!! Thing is bad ass!! 😂

[@dlamb4prez]

@@brandonh1133 Congratulations! What options did you go for? May I ask what you paid out the door?

[@rogiste1]

It nice SUV -- but it's the little things that mean a lot to me -- (hood prong - why?, no headup display ) for the price I guess it's okay -- sad that this is a Platinum trim - I expected more)

[@johnhart900]

I love you reviews and the "snack" references. But I gots to know, since you recently reviewed the Durango Hellcat, which handles better and has the better performance, the Ford Explorer ST or the Dodge Durango Hellcat? Thanks and keep up the great reviews

[@dlamb4prez]

Hellcat kills these in performance, but the Ford has a nicer interior and ride.

[@odelllucas]

You didn't drive it in Sport Mode...

[@dlamb4prez]

This! Sport mode tightens up the suspension, changes the throttle response, and allows you to rev it out!

[@brett_frondorf]

Day 26 of asking for the BMW M5 Touring Review. Thanks Joe!!

[@RaitisRides]

I appreciate you asking! I have it coming soon

[@guitar_gnome]

removing physical buttons is not an upgrade. I thought the industry figured out that people didn't like touchscreen for everything.

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your car video ❤❤❤❤

[@RaitisRides]

I’m very grateful for your support

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

@@RaitisRides Welcome

[@stevennaumovski6734]

That's a nice vehicle. Luxurious and well done. Ford does a great job. I'm no expert. It's only what I see and how it affects my emotions. It's yeah 😊

[@wolf040882]

my ford explorer died at 140k miles. so I'll never buy another one again. it was a transmission, steering column etc at the same time. 8k worth of repair

[@alexmaclean1]

I'm a big fan of this but I must say I think at this price point I think a lot of buyers might just move to the Lincoln.

[@sevenpaulperalta929]

I really object to that hard, black plastic around the fenders and the rear valance. It just makes a vehicle look low budget!

[@dlamb4prez]

Is the moonroof still available as an option I. The 25?

[@antoniocognato5023]

Does this Rival the new 25 4runner? and pathfinder and pilot?

[@FacuGonz3]

I really like it

[@dentonschimming2825]

I contacted Ford Motor Company and asked about the head up display. They told me that it is available.

[@TeeCee4eva1381]

Which model trim?

[@dentonschimming2825]

@@TeeCee4eva1381 They said both the ST and Platinum Trims

[@shahramkhayam4875]

The engine is stronger than Toyota. What about reliability and durability? Did Ford improve it or still the same? Thanks for all videos

[@disposabledad2]

I had a 17 EXPLORER sport 3.5 twin turbo with 80k, regular 4k oil changes and I had 0 problems. I now drive a 22 EXPLORER ST with 25K it's the same 3.0 twin turbo as the one in the video . I haven't had any issues yet . The 3.0 is the 2.7 V6 platform bored out apparently .I guess it's a extremely durable engine. I actually prefer the 3.0 TT vs the 3.5 TT. It just seems snappier and sounds more aggressive for some reason. Plus the 10 speed trans vs the 6 speed in the previous gen. Not that the 3.5 was a slouch. The issues with the 3.5 TT was the cam phasers for some reason. Not all but some were unlucky. Good luck

[@shahramkhayam4875]

@ Thanks for the info!

[@si_7554]

Thank u ford for keeping the v6

[@omarcortes5754]

That's not a good place for a tattoo but well. I have to say is nice to see Ford is offering the v6 engine for this trim.

[@RaitisRides]

You are definitely not the first to say that

[@CaptainCJ97]

Theres no reason the side wall height shouid be so low 40 series is nuts this a family suv not a honda civic type r i just know these wheels gonna be taking some damage big time

[@anthonywisdom9214]

Why couldn’t GMC give the new Acadia and traverse an engine like that!!

[@kovalm3]

Exactly my question.

[@anthonywisdom9214]

@@kovalm3 I was settled on Acadia but now.. not so sure 😂

[@rohanm2301]

Ig gmc focus too much on the design nowadays

[@MadMartiganz]

Yeah, That's one of the big reasons why I'm going explorer over those. Plus the engine isn't new, it's been around and refined i believe.

[@av-ru-mi]

You forgot to censor the speedometer.

[@joannebarbagallo2696]

I watch car reviews specifically for joe

[@ExcelNweke-s2c]

Ford always getting it right, keep improving

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

So what you're saying Joe, in reality............the Mazda is feminine styled and the Explorer is masculine styled. Great video Joe, thanks.

[@elitecontroller3471]

Good luck in the snow with the rear wheel drive only

[@bigbuck9984]

Every video I watch of a Suv/ crossover with a 3rd row the 3rd row sucks other than for kids. I would rather just have a 60/40 second row and the extra cargo space behind 2nd row. Then majority of the time you would probably never need to put down 2nd row. Ofcourse just my opinion. But this was a great review

[@monicamilholland1092]

I couldn’t agree with you more!

[@UniqueTII]

Rapid Red is amazing, no doubt there!

[@Oneness100]

What I don't get is why do they put a larger, yet less powerful Eco Boost in the Expedition than the Explorer? They should be putting in at least a 500HP engine the larger Expedition than the 400HP engine in the Explorer. Doesn't make sense.

[@healtheahealth4755]

Are those roof rails optional?

[@diesel6916]

no, but you can after market delete

[@JuanGonzalez-gi6jt]

When I read twin turbo, I assumed it was gonna be the 3.5 v6. But with the numbers you gave. I'm sure this one will still haul azz

[@Citizen_Shane21]

The 2024 Traverse LS comes with almost all of these features for $38k. No need to spend and extra 20k for a name plate.

[@tianyizheng7590]

My father owned the 2024 Explorer in China. But the interior is totally different.

[@marksman4004]

Damn Joe, that car that got in front of you almost had you pay for it. 🤣🤣

[@HarleyMartinez-t6e]

Didn’t he already do a 2025 Ford EXPLORER PLATINUM?

[@lauracebula3222]

Yep, 2 months ago. Silver. But that was the 4cyl, not 6. Also may have been awd not RWD but I’m not sure.

[@RaitisRides]

This one is a 3.0L EcoBoost & is RWD. It’s all in the details Harley!

[@RaitisRides]

@@lauracebula3222man you are good! Thanks for having my back !

[@DayneJAH333]

What's up with the black plastic around the wheel. Ford really think people going to take this off-road

[@kvasnaik8920]

Joe its a shame that they made the center screen stand out like a five dollar car ,its so stupid,they could have made it more modern ,it looks like an after thought and for 60 grand or 68 plus with tax ,no thanks

[@phayoun]

I don't like touch screens for climate controls,

[@TheAutomotiveReview]

My Issues with the Ford Explorer is that there are too many trims. I Prefer the three trim level designations DX, LX, EX, or if you prefer Base, Limited, Touring. The Older Boxier Explorers have increase interior space for passengers and cargo. This Platinum Trim is way too expensive for the regular household. Joe why Pizza Hut personal pizzas in the second row pocket? That is extremely messy. The Food Items is an attempt to be funny - haha. The Rear Storage at 16 sqft is extremely small for this class of vehicle. This just substantiates my observation for Ford to return to the more boxy prior generations of Explorers. I hope Jim Farley is listening.

[@nissanhonda25]

This destroys the Pilot

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that you think so

[@BigBaller-he1dz]

Right...wait till you're a few years in and the repair bills start piling up, you'll wish you had bought that Pilot.

[@nissanhonda25]

@@BigBaller-he1dz honda had over 2 million recalls last month ford > honda

[@BigBaller-he1dz]

@@nissanhonda25 How many recalls has Ford had in the past oh let's say 10 years?? Alot more than Honda.

[@ronnieblea4422]

At least you won’t be mistaken buying a cop car in a Pilot.

[@BlackYellow07]

$4500/month car payments sounds great, 9 years

[@thomasduquette3933]

The wood trim is real???

[@tomdrummy4984]

Platinum trim needs HUD, Ford

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@3dawg1721]

YES! That black plastic trim does NOT belong on the platinum. Does not say "Luxury", it says "average"

[@alhareth2621]

9:43 😂😂😂

[@JTKels]

Looking under the hood, didn’t see much reliability, where wheel drive is not gonna work as most cars are all-wheel-drive. This is the top trim and does not have heads up display while my Lexus RX 350 premium plus trim has heads up display and more. I’ll stick with Lexus quality. I know that they’re reliability is 150%.

[@kurtr1870]

No HUD on a $55K "Platinum" trim? WTH!

[@SpringfieldTony]

happy halloween - treat or trick, I love a girl who can drive a stick

[@williammccrain8576]

Yeah

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you approve

[@b1riley1000]

It makes absolutely no sense to me to have a 3 row vehicle without only 6 seats. Most people would be better off with a 2 row vehicle that comfortably seats 5 and still has the whole trunk available for stuff. With this vehicle, if you have 3 kids or 2 kids and a guest, someone is stuck in the 3rd row and now you have squat for space to carry your stuff.

[@diesel6916]

you can get it with a 2-row bench, If Rati took more time looking at specs then counting hotdogs

[@AG-lk2xw]

It's active, st line, platinum and then st

[@dlamb4prez]

ST is below Platinum in trim level.

[@apexautoreviewz]

Not having a heads up display and having a “soundbar” go across the length of the dash (that only contains 2 of the explorers 14 speakers) is a zonk. Apparently “soundbars” are the new trend.

[@DEEPCYCLEGARAGE]

Argh! These Fords! Yer just cruising down the road in your minivan crankin' Lead Foot by Billy Strings and a soccer mom in an Explorer is behind you and ya slow down 'cuz ya think it's a cop!? I hate to say it's a good-looking SUV. Agree so much about the rear wiper, ZONK! Those fake exhaust tips are worse that the Camaro flo-tie! "TATOO ACROSS HIS LOWER BACK"! 🤣🙃🤪😅

[@rakhsiprayogo82]

This or Mercedes GLS

[@MeMy.I]

$53k , two-tone interior ? I'd do that before a Benz. Depreciation on Benz is a lot

[@RaitisRides]

Well you will spend less on this Explorer

[@RaitisRides]

@@MeMy.Igood call

[@rakhsiprayogo82]

@@RaitisRides Yes So This is 3 row SUV to

[@embiggens1]

Yeah, I was between a Traverse and a Bentayga myself.

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Not keeping any secrets, I like the drive train on the Ford Explorer, I think I would take it over the Mazda CX 90.

[@victorserao7180]

You don’t know what to do that right I’ll tell you why you know how the exhaust and makes the tips turn black that’s why I do that make it come out at the bottom that way you don’t see that

[@marksix3027]

They didn't use enough ugly black plastic on the exterior.

[@Firmeroka]

Gracias por tan exquisita presentación , adoro a FORD EXPLORER soy su fan.

[@Jack.Smith80]

❤❤❤🙏

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Jack for letting me share it with you

[@mojorisin7371]

Hey Joe, you gotta start wearing that yamaka to hide that bald spot 😅