Ford Explorer: The SUV That’ll Make You Ditch Your Sedan

The 2025 Ford Explorer isn’t just an SUV, it’s your ticket to the ultimate getaway. Join us on our trip to the Catskills this past week for a fly fishing experience!

I headed to the Catskills for an adventure of fly fishing with Ford and Catskills On The Fly, and after extensively driving the 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum for the past week, I can confidently provide this recap without hesitation. Every aspect of the car proves why the Explorer has become synonymous with family hauling, road trips, hardware store runs, and everything in between. In a world where uniqueness often falls victim to conformity, the Ford Explorer stands tall as a refreshing rebel. While other rides have faded into cookie-cutter blandness, this powerhouse has kicked it up a notch, flaunting a revamped look that’s turning heads both inside and out.

Despite its commanding presence, the Explorer proves surprisingly nimble in urban jungles. Piloting this full-sized SUV through Manhattan’s concrete canyons, I was impressed by its deft handling. Navigating the chaos of Times Square—a nightmare for most large vehicles—the Explorer remained composed and responsive. Its precise steering and well-tuned suspension allowed for effortless maneuvering around double-parked delivery trucks. The excellent visibility from inside the cabin, thanks to large windows and strategically placed cameras instilled confidence during parallel parking attempts on crowded streets. The Explorer’s advanced driver assistance systems further enhanced urban driving, making this family hauler feel more like a compact crossover in the heart of the city.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduces a range of significant upgrades, including a bolder exterior with redesigned front and rear fascia, LED headlamps, and new grille designs unique to each trim level. Inside, it features a more refined interior with soft-touch materials and a standard 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen, alongside a 12.3-inch digital driver cluster. The new Ford Digital Experience replaces the Sync system, offering advanced in-vehicle connectivity with integrated apps, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and optional Google Assistant or Alexa Built-In. With simplified trim levels—Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and the performance-focused ST—drivers can enjoy new technology like hands-free driving with Ford BlueCruise on select trims, making it easier to customize their driving experience and elevate comfort on the road.

Heading out of New York City towards the Catskills, I took the scenic route, enjoying a smooth, relaxing drive. With ample space for all our luggage, the Explorer easily accommodated our belongings for a getaway of fly fishing. The comfortable leather seating kept everyone relaxed during the trip, while the expansive infotainment display made navigation a breeze. When we decided to make pit stops and just soak in the beautiful landscapes, dropping the third-row seats and chilling in the tailgate provided an amazing perch to relax during the trip. But the real highlight was the BlueCruise hands-free driving technology, which allowed me to sit back and fully take in the stunning fall foliage as we wound our way through upstate New York.

The convenience of BlueCruise turned the drive into a serene experience, leaving me refreshed and ready for a full day of adventure on the river. The pièce de résistance is the cutting-edge massage system integrated into both the driver and passenger seats. With a range of customizable programs, this feature transforms your commute into a spa-like experience. By the time you reach your destination, you’ll feel as though you’ve just stepped out of a high-end massage therapist’s office – relaxed, reinvigorated, and ready to tackle whatever lies ahead.

As a former engineer for the Toyota RAV4 instrumentation panel, I have a deep appreciation for the level of precision and craftsmanship in the Explorer’s dashboard. The attention to detail is evident in every element, from the seamless integration of the large digital driver cluster to the intuitive layout of controls. The leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury that rivals even the high-end Lincoln Aviator, offering a premium feel and comfort at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, the Explorer’s cabin is thoughtfully designed with ample space, including a convenient wireless charging pad that made it easy for my passenger princess to stay powered on the go.

Adding to the Explorer’s charm are the delightful Easter eggs scattered throughout the vehicle. While I’ll leave most for future owners to discover, one standout feature caught my eye: an engraved timeline showcasing each Ford Explorer generation, cleverly hidden inside the passenger seat’s storage compartment. These subtle nods to the model’s heritage not only demonstrate Ford’s attention to detail but also create a sense of connection to the Explorer’s history.

The Explorer’s driving dynamics deserve a special mention. Despite its relatively compact footprint compared to some rivals, this SUV delivers an engaging experience behind the wheel. The rear-wheel-drive-based chassis architecture, paired with the Platinum and ST trims’ optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6, provides ample power for any driving situation. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, complementing the engine’s performance. The suspension strikes an impressive balance, offering a more refined ride without sacrificing comfort. It’s neither overly stiff nor too soft, resulting in a smooth ride. The various drive modes add another layer of versatility, allowing drivers to tailor the Explorer’s performance to their preferences or road conditions. All these elements combine to create a driving experience that’s not just competent, but genuinely enjoyable.

Despite not being a fan of large cars and having no practical reason to own one—no kids, no dogs, and no frequent road trips—the 2025 Ford Explorer has made me seriously reconsider. Its versatility, comfort, and impressive handling have won me over, making me think about a lifestyle change just to have a reason to keep this vehicle in my driveway. Whether navigating city streets or cruising through scenic country roads, the Explorer’s ability to excel in any setting has made it clear that maybe it’s time to embrace a bigger, more adventurous life that matches this SUV’s capabilities.