By Mike, Automotive Reviewer at All In Car Nations, Published: April 7, 2025

Introduction: Why the 2025 Ford Explorer ST is a Must-Consider

Hey, gearheads! I’m Mike, your car-obsessed host at All In Car Nations, with over a decade of reviewing everything on wheels. Today, I’m pumped to spotlight the 2025 Ford Explorer ST—a 3-row midsize SUV that’s equal parts family hauler and high-performance beast. Starting at $55,000, this ST trim packs 400 horsepower, bold styling, and tech that turns heads. I’ve taken it for a spin, and it’s got serious cred. Ready to find out why you should buy it now? Here are my top 10 reasons—plus some drawbacks to keep it real. Let’s burn rubber and dive in!

1. Jaw-Dropping 400 Horsepower

The ST’s heart is a 3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6:

• Power: 400 hp, 415 lb-ft torque—rare for a 3-row SUV.
• Speed: 0-60 mph in ~5 seconds—crazy for 4,800 lbs.
• Versatility: Merges fast, tows up to 5,600 lbs.

I floored it—shifting paddles blazing—and it’s a thrill. Perfect for highway passes or chasing down weekend adventures.

2. Bold, Sporty Design

Ford sharpened the Explorer’s look for 2025, and the ST screams aggression:

• Front: Gloss-black grille, sleek headlights ditch the old “smiling whale” vibe.
• ST Flair: Blackout details, muscular bumpers, 21-inch wheels with red calipers.
• Rear: Horizontal LED taillights, quad exhaust tips (quiet but cool).

It’s big, athletic, and commands the road—I’d pick this over a tame Telluride any day.

3. Three Rows of Family-Friendly Seating

Need space for the crew? The ST delivers:

• Capacity: Seats 6-7 with captain’s chairs or a bench option.
• Second Row: Adjustable, heated, with armrests—pirate-captain comfy.
• Third Row: Power-folding, decent for kids or short trips.

At 6’ tall, I fit everywhere—third row’s tight, but the flexibility’s a win for growing families.

4. Impressive Cargo Versatility

Haul gear like a champ:

• Third Row Up: 16 cubic feet—stroller or bags, no sweat.
• Third Row Down: 46 cubic feet—massive underfloor storage.
• Ease: The Magic button folds the third row headrests manually, but quickly.

From groceries to camping gear, it’s got room—I’d load this up for a weekend getaway in a heartbeat.

5. Cutting-Edge Tech Suite

The ST’s tech is next-level:

• Screen: 13.2-inch Sync 4—horizontal, intuitive, with wireless Android Auto/CarPlay.
• Audio: Integrated Bang & Olufsen soundbar—crisp and clear.
• Extras: Wireless charging tray, 360-camera, digital cluster.

I navigated it effortlessly—Sync 4’s a breeze, and that phone shelf? Genius for road trips.

6. Sport Suspension for Fun Handling

The ST’s Sport Technology package means business:

• Setup: Stiff suspension, minimal body roll in corners.
• Wheels: 21-inchers with red calipers—looks and grips.
• Modes: Sport, Eco, Tow, Trail—tweak it for any vibe.

I attacked high-speed turns—no SUV wobble here. It’s a sporty compromise worth taking.

7. Packed Safety Features

Ford’s got your back:

• Systems: Lane-keeping, blind-spot monitors, emergency braking.
• BlueCruise: Hands-free highway driving—solid, not Tesla-grade.
• Visibility: 360-camera offsets thick pillars.

It’s safe for the fam—BlueCruise impressed me on long stretches, keeping stress low.

8. Luxe Interior Touches

The cabin’s sporty yet plush:

• Seats: Alcantara centers, leather sides, orange stitching—heated, ventilated, massaging.
• Steering: ST-emblazoned wheel—grippy leather, heated option.
• Storage: Deep console, hidden snack tray—practical and cool.

I sank into those seats—a massage saved the day after a long drive. It’s a comfy cockpit.

9. Towing Power for Weekend Warriors

Got a boat or trailer? The ST’s ready:

• Capacity: 5,600 lbs—tops many midsize rivals.
• Engine: 400 hp makes towing feel effortless.
• Modes: Two setting optimizes performance.

I’d hitch up and hit the lake—this power’s a game-changer for outdoor fans.

10. Value at $55,000+

The ST’s price-to-performance ratio rocks:

• Base: $39,000 for a standard Explorer—solid deal.
• ST Trim: $55,000+ for 400 hp, sport upgrades, tech.
• Rivals: Beats Kia Telluride ($50K, less power) on punch.

For a 3-row SUV with this much fun factor, it’s worth every penny—I’d pay the premium.

Drawbacks: What’s Not Perfect?

No ride’s flawless—here’s where the ST stumbles:

• Stiff Ride: Sport suspension’s bouncy daily comfort takes a hit.
• Third Row Space: Tight for adults—knees up, hard plastics only.
• Faux Sound: Engine noise from speakers, not exhaust—EcoBoost lacks roar.
• Paddle Shifters: Plastic, not metal—cheap feel for a $55K ride.
• Fuel Economy: 16 city / 24 highway mpg—thirsty for the power.

These quirks don’t kill the vibe, but they’re worth weighing, especially for daily drivers.

Why Buy Now? Timing’s Key

The 2025 Explorer ST is hitting dealers soon:

• Beat the rush—early buyers snag prime stock.
• Lock in before prices creep up (Ford’s known for it).
• Join the ST club—bragging rights for a rare 400-hp family SUV.

Check Ford dealers now—availability’s ramping up for 2025.

Verdict: Is the 2025 Ford Explorer ST Your Next Ride?

The 2025 Ford Explorer ST is a unicorn—400 hp, 3-row seating, and sporty flair for $55,000+. It’s bold, tech-packed, and hauls family or gear with ease. Sure, it’s stiff, the third row’s snug, and the sound’s fake—but the fun factor outweighs it all. I’d buy it for its unique edge—would you? Comment below, like this post, and subscribe to All In Car Nations for more—I’m Mike, revving off ‘til next time!

Quick Specs Recap

• Price: $55,000+ (ST)
• Power: 400 hp, 415 lb-ft
• MPG: 16 city / 24 highway
• Cargo: 16-46 cubic feet

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!