By Mike, Automotive Reviewer at All Incarnations, Published: April 7, 2025

Hey, car enthusiasts! I’m Mike, your host at All Incarnations, and I have over a decade of experience reviewing vehicles, from sedans to SUVs. Today, I’m thrilled to dive into the 2025 Ford Explorer ST—a midsize, 3-row SUV that blends family-friendly practicality with high-performance flair. I recently got hands-on with this beast, and let me tell you, it’s a head-turner. Starting at $55,000, the ST trim promises 400 horsepower, bold styling, and tech-packed features. Is it worth the hype? In this detailed review, I’ll break down its design, performance, interior, and more—plus some pros and cons—to help you decide if this sporty family hauler belongs in your driveway. Let’s roll!

Overview: What’s the 2025 Ford Explorer ST All About?

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST is the performance pinnacle of Ford’s midsize SUV lineup. Refreshed for the new model year, it’s built for drivers who want utility and excitement. Key specs:

• Price: Starts at $55,000 (base Explorer at $39,000).
• Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6, 400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque.
• Seating: Up to 7 with 3 rows.
• Trim Highlights: Sport Technology package, quad exhaust, 21-inch wheels.

It’s not just a family hauler—it’s a sport-oriented SUV with a commanding presence. Let’s explore why it stands out.

Exterior Design: Bold and Aggressive

Ford sharpened the Explorer’s look for 2025, and the ST trim takes it up a notch:

• Front End: Dynamic grille (gloss black, camera-integrated), sleeker headlights—goodbye, “smiling whale” vibe of the old gen.
• ST Touches: Blackout details, muscular bumpers, red brake calipers peeking behind 21-inch wheels.
• Rear: LED taillights stretch horizontally, blending with the model name; quad exhaust tips add flair (though not as loud as they look).
• Options: Black roof (optional on higher trims) for sophistication.

At 4.9m long, it’s big but athletic—perfect for standing out in traffic. I love the serious, sporty stance—way more appealing than its predecessor.

Powertrain & Performance: 400 HP Family Hauler

Under the hood, the ST packs a punch:

• Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6—400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque.
• Acceleration: 0-60 mph in ~5 seconds—impressive for a 4,800-lb SUV.
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic, quick and precise, with paddle shifters (plastic, sadly—not metal).
• Sound: Quiet exhaust (mufflers at work), but speakers pipe in faux engine noise—adds drama, though it’s not the real deal.

I floored it—full throttle, hot brakes—and it’s a blast. Merging onto highways or towing a boat (up to 5,600 lbs)? This combo’s got you covered. Police might love it too—good luck outrunning this!

Interior: Sporty Meets Practical

Inside, the 2025 Explorer ST blends sportiness with family-friendly design:

• Dashboard: 13.2-inch horizontal touchscreen (Sync 4)—no more vertical monstrosity—plus a B&O soundbar.
• Seats: Sport seats with Alcantara centers, leather sides, orange stitching—heated, ventilated, massaging (but light on side support).
• Second Row: Captain’s chairs—comfy, adjustable, heated, with armrests and a massive panoramic roof overhead.
• Third Row: Decent for short trips (16 cubic feet behind), but at 6’ tall, my knees were high—hard plastic, not plush.
• Storage: Deep center console, hidden snack tray, wireless charging shelf—smart and useful.

The Sync 4 system’s intuitive wireless Android Auto/CarPlay, 360-camera views, and climate controls at your fingertips. Space-wise, it’s pirate-approved—“I’m the captain now!”—but third-row comfort takes a hit.

Cargo Space: Ready for Anything

The ST’s cargo versatility impressed me:

• Third Row Up: 16 cubic feet—fits a double stroller or two roller bags.
• Third Row Down: 46 cubic feet—massive underfloor storage included.
• Operation: Power-folding third row (manual headrests)—quick and easy.

It’s a practical hauler—weekend getaways or grocery runs, no problem. The button-activated third row is a parent’s dream.

Driving Experience: Sporty Yet Stiff

I took the ST for a spin, and here’s how it drives:

• Handling: Sport suspension cuts body roll in corners—great for an SUV—but it’s bouncy on daily drives.
• Ride: Stiff over bumps (those 21-inch wheels!), sacrificing some comfort for sportiness.
• Modes: Terrain Management System—Sport, Eco, Normal, Slippery, Trail, Tow—tweak it for any scenario.
• Visibility: High seating, but thick pillars limit rear views—360-camera saves the day.

It’s fun attacking corners, but the trade-off is a jumpy ride—fine for enthusiasts, less so for cushy commutes.

Tech & Safety: Packed and Protected

Ford loads the ST with tech:

• Infotainment: 13.2-inch Sync 4—fast, wireless, with a digital cluster.
• Safety: Lane-keeping, blind-spot monitors, emergency braking, BlueCruise (hands-free highway driving—not Tesla-level, but solid).
• Extras: Heated steering wheel, 110V outlet, USB-C ports galore.

It’s safe and tech-savvy—ideal for families or long hauls. BlueCruise felt reliable, though not revolutionary.

Fuel Economy: Thirsty but Fair

With 400 hp and 4,800 lbs, expect:

• City: 16 mpg—gas stations will know you.
• Highway: 24 mpg—decent for the power.
• Verdict: Fun comes at a cost, but it’s acceptable for this segment.

If you crave efficiency, skip the ST—ST-ST-ST-EcoBoost hybrids in lower trims that sip less.

Pricing: Worth the Sporty Upgrade?

• Base Explorer: $39,000—solid value.
• ST Trim: $55,000+—adds 400 hp, sport suspension, premium features.

For the fun factor—3-row seating with muscle—I’d say yes. It’s a unique blend at this price, outpacing rivals like the Kia Telluride in power.

Pros vs. Cons: The Full Scoop

• Pros:
  • 400 hp twin-turbo V6—rare in a 3-row SUV.
  • Bold, athletic styling stands out.
  • Tech-packed (Sync 4, BlueCruise, 360-camera).
  • Versatile cargo and seating options.
• Cons:
  • Stiff suspension—bouncy daily ride.
  • The third row is cramped for adults.
  • Plastic paddle shifters feel cheap.
  • Faux engine sound—not the real roar.

Who’s It For? Your Perfect Match

Ideal for:

• Sporty Families: Need 6-7 seats with a performance kick? This is it.
• Towing Fans: 5,600-lb capacity for boats or trailers.
• Tech Lovers: Sync 4 and BlueCruise keep you connected.

If comfort trumps sportiness, consider the Explorer Platinum instead.

Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Ford Explorer ST?

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST is a rare breed—a 3-row SUV with serious grunt (400 hp!), sharp looks, and family-ready features for $55,000+. It’s not perfect—stiff ride, tight third row—but it’s a blast to drive and packed with tech. I’d buy it for its unique mix of utility and excitement—would you? Drop your thoughts below, give this a thumbs up, and subscribe to All Incarnations for more reviews—I’m Mike, and I’ll catch you on the next ride!

Specs Snapshot

• Price: $55,000+ (ST)
• Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6, 400 hp
• MPG: 16 city / 24 highway
• Cargo: 16-46 cubic feet

Author Section

About the Author: Mike

Mike is a devout worshipper of the Car God and the driving force behind All In Car Nations. With a passion for classic cars, supercars, and detailed reviews, he’s your guide to the automotive world. Follow him on Instagram @allincarnations and join the car religion 🔥 for more high-octane insights!