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The refreshed 2025 Ford Explorer is closer to Lincoln in one conspicuous way: its Ford Digital Experience infotainment system first appeared in the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. But that shared technology does not make the Explorer a Lincoln. Car and Driver found a much-improved front cabin and an intuitive interface, yet judged that “You won’t mistake it for a Lincoln.” The Explorer’s strongest case is its mix of available V6 power, useful maximum cargo and towing figures, and modern technology; its weaker points include a cramped third row and less polished rear-seat comfort.
What changed in the 2025 Ford Explorer?
Ford redesigned the Explorer’s cabin and added the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system. Standard equipment includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa Built-in, and eight USB ports, according to Ford. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is available on ST-Line, ST and Platinum, subject to vehicle configuration and applicable terms.
Car and Driver describes the system as Android Automotive-based, with Google Maps-based navigation and Google Play apps. The reviewer found the interface intuitive and the cabin reasonably quiet, but noted that physical secondary controls are limited and small. Its test car registered 68 dBA at 70 mph; that is a measurement from Car and Driver’s test vehicle, not a guarantee for every configuration.
The Lincoln connection is specifically a technology lineage: Car and Driver reports that Ford Digital Experience debuted in the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus. It is not evidence that the Explorer and Lincoln Aviator share an interior, materials, sound insulation or ride tuning. Ford says it revised the Explorer’s materials and touchpoints, while Car and Driver found the most noticeable improvement up front.
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- official licensed
- 1:43 Scale Cars- 4 1/2 inches long
- Made of Diecast metal, rubber tires
Which 2025 Explorer trim should you choose?
The U.S. lineup has four trims: Active, ST-Line, ST and Platinum. Rear-wheel drive is standard on each, and intelligent four-wheel drive is available. The 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is standard on Active, ST-Line and Platinum; the ST gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, which is optional on Platinum. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic. Ford’s stated horsepower and torque ratings are based on premium fuel.
| Trim | Engine | Best fit |
| Active | 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder: 300 hp and 310 lb-ft | For buyers who want the standard powertrain and core Explorer experience. |
| ST-Line | 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder: 300 hp and 310 lb-ft | For shoppers who want an upper-trim technology option such as available BlueCruise without stepping up to the V6 ST. |
| ST | 3.0-liter turbo V6: 400 hp and 415 lb-ft | For buyers prioritizing the strongest standard engine and sportier character. |
| Platinum | 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder standard; 3.0-liter turbo V6 optional | For a more upscale trim, with the choice to add the V6. |
These are equipment and powertrain distinctions, not a claim that every feature is standard on every vehicle; verify the specific vehicle’s configuration before buying. Ford’s SelectShift automatic is standard, and it specifies paddle shifters for the ST.
Rank #2
- Brand new box. Real rubber tires. True-to-scale detail. Has opening front doors. Detailed interior, exterior. Officially licensed product. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-8, W-3.75, H-3 inches.
How much did it cost when reported?
Prices below are dated snapshots, not current dealer quotes. Ford announced an original 2025 Explorer starting MSRP of $41,220 including destination on January 2, 2024. In an AP-republished Edmunds comparison dated February 12, 2025, the Active was listed at $41,350 and the Platinum at $55,855. Car and Driver later described a starting price of $41,350 and an ST approaching $70,000 when loaded. These figures refer to different trims and publication snapshots; they should not be treated as today’s transaction prices.
How does the Explorer drive?
Car and Driver’s review, updated October 18, 2024, included instrumented results for an ST AWD. The publication praised the revised materials and infotainment but called the Explorer’s driving dynamics uninspired in its lowlights. That is the reviewer’s assessment, not a firsthand test by this article’s writer.
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Rank #3
- Brand new box. Real rubber tires. True-to-scale detail. Has opening front doors. Detailed interior, exterior. Officially licensed product. Manufacturer's original unopened packaging. Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts. Dimensions approximately L-8, W-3.75, H-3 inches.
Edmunds testing, as reported in the Associated Press comparison published February 12, 2025, recorded 0–60 mph in 7.0 seconds for a four-cylinder Explorer and 5.6 seconds for a V6 Explorer. Those are Edmunds test results for the configurations tested, not universal figures for every drivetrain or vehicle.
Edmunds also gives EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 24 mpg for a four-cylinder rear-wheel-drive Explorer and 23 mpg for a four-cylinder all-wheel-drive model. These estimates apply to those specified configurations, not the V6 or every Explorer.
Rank #4
Is the Explorer practical for passengers and cargo?
Ford quotes a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds and up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row with the second and third rows folded. These are manufacturer maximum figures; actual capacity can depend on vehicle configuration and equipment.
The main practicality compromise is the third row. Car and Driver found it uncomfortable for adults, citing low-mounted cushions and modest legroom. Its favorable cabin impressions were concentrated toward the front, with rear-seat refinement still a limitation. If adults will regularly sit in the back, make a real-world third-row check part of your decision rather than relying on the Explorer’s overall size.
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- Scale : 1:43 5 inches
- Builder Kit Includes: Light bar & push bar (installation required)
- Comes with acrylic display case
- Material: Diecast metal with some plastic parts.
- Dimensions approximately L-4.25, W-2.25, H-2 inches.
Explorer or Honda Pilot?
In Edmunds’ comparison, the Explorer came across as sportier and more technology-forward, while the Honda Pilot rode more smoothly over bumps and offered better storage and cabin utility. Edmunds’ acceleration tests also favored the Explorer’s tested engines, particularly the V6, but that does not settle the choice for families who value ride comfort or flexible interior storage more.
- Lean toward the Explorer if available V6 power, a sportier character, or its infotainment and hands-free driving technology are priorities.
- Consider the Pilot if smoother bump absorption, storage and cabin utility matter more in daily family use.
- For either SUV, assess how often adults use the third row, whether you need AWD, and which features are actually included on the specific trim and vehicle you are considering.
Verdict: Is Ford closing in on Lincoln?
In technology, yes: the Explorer gains a system with a Lincoln debut and a substantially updated front-cabin experience. In overall refinement, the evidence does not support calling it Lincoln-like. Car and Driver’s review found the interface and materials improved but still drew a clear distinction, especially given the Explorer’s third-row comfort and rear-cabin limitations. Choose the Explorer for its powertrain choices, technology and utility; choose a trim around the equipment and engine you want, not the assumption that a shared infotainment system makes it a luxury SUV.
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