
Streamlined Luxury: The 2025 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
Meta: Compare the 2025 Ford Explorer trims with ease. From sleek design to top-tier features, find your perfect blend of luxury and performance
The Ford Explorer has a refreshed lineup, offering Canadian drivers a choice of four distinct trim levels: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. Each trim can meet the specific needs and preferences, from essential features to high-performance capabilities.

Active: The Foundation of Adventure
The Active trim is the entry point to the Explorer family. This base model offers robust features that promote comfort and capability.
Powertrain and Performance
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine
300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
10-speed automatic transmission
Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System
Exterior Features
LED headlamps and taillamps
18-inch aluminum wheels
Privacy glass on second and third-row windows
Power Liftgate
Interior and Comfort
Tri-zone automatic climate control
8-way power driver’s seat
Second-row 35/30/35 split-fold bench seat
Third-row 50/50 split-fold bench seat
Technology and Safety
13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 with Pre-Collision Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking
The Active trim provides an excellent balance of features, making it an attractive option for families and adventure seekers who want a capable SUV without breaking the bank.
ST-Line: Sporty Aesthetics Meet Everyday Practicality
The ST-Line trim builds upon the Active’s foundation, adding sporty styling cues and enhanced features for those who want a more dynamic look without the full performance upgrade of the ST.
Upgrades from Active
20-inch machined aluminum wheels with high-gloss black-painted pockets
Sport-styled front and rear bumpers
Black mesh grille insert with ST-Line badge
Unique lower bodyside cladding
Interior Enhancements
ActiveX seating material with red stitching
Heated front seats
Leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel with red stitching
Second-row captain’s chairs (reducing seating capacity to six)
Technology Boost
360-degree camera
Wireless charging pad
Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving system (available)
The ST-Line balances sporty aesthetics and practical features, appealing to drivers who want a more aggressive look without sacrificing everyday usability.
Platinum: The Pinnacle of Refinement
The Platinum trim delivers a premium experience with high-end materials and advanced features for those seeking luxury and technology.
Powertrain Options
Standard: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
Optional: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
Exterior Elegance
21-inch bright machined-face aluminum wheels with Luster Nickel-painted pockets
Satin aluminum finish grille
Satin aluminum finish roof rack side rails
Hands-free, foot-activated liftgate
Interior Luxury
Tri-Diamond perforated leather seating surfaces
Leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel with unique stitching
Real wood accents on the dashboard and door panels
Multi-contour front seats with Active Motion massage function
Advanced Technology
14-speaker B&O sound system by Bang & Olufsen
10.1-inch LCD capacitive portrait touchscreen in the center stack
Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving system (standard)
Active Park Assist 2.0
The Platinum trim transforms the Explorer into a true luxury SUV, offering a refined driving experience and top-tier amenities.
ST: Performance-Driven Excellence
The ST trim is for driving enthusiasts who demand high performance without sacrificing utility. It combines the luxury of the Platinum with sport-tuned components for an exhilarating driving experience.
High-Performance Powertrain
3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine
400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque
Sport-tuned suspension
Larger brake rotors with red-painted calipers
Exterior Sportiness
21-inch machined aluminum wheels with high-gloss black-painted pockets
Blackout treatment on exterior trim
Quad chrome exhaust tips
“ST” badging
Performance-Inspired Interior
Leather seating surfaces with micro-perforated inserts and City Silver accent stitching
Heated and ventilated front seats
Heated second-row seats
Flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters
ST-Exclusive Technology
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with ST-specific graphics
Selectable drive modes, including Sport and Track modes
Performance brakes with red-painted calipers
The Explorer ST trim is the ultimate expression of the performance capabilities. It offers a thrilling driving experience without compromising on luxury or practicality.
Compare Key Features Across Trims
To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare some key features across all four trim levels:
- Seating Capacity
Active: 7 passengers
ST-Line: 6 passengers (captain’s chairs)
Platinum: 6 passengers (captain’s chairs)
ST: 6 passengers (captain’s chairs)
- Towing Capacity
All trims: Up to 2,268 kg when properly equipped
- Fuel Efficiency (estimated)
2.3L EcoBoost: 11.5 L/100 km city, 8.7 L/100 km highway
3.0L EcoBoost: 13.3 L/100 km city, 9.8 L/100 km highway
- Cargo Space
Behind first row: 2,486 litres
Behind second row: 1,356 litres
Behind third row: 515 litres
- Infotainment Screen Size
Active, ST-Line: 13.2-inch touchscreen
Platinum, ST: 10.1-inch touchscreen + 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Drive Modes
Active, ST-Line, Platinum: Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery
ST: Adds Track mode
- Advanced Safety Features (standard across all trims)
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Lane-Keeping System
Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
Auto High-Beam Headlamps
Rear View Camera
Customization Options
Ford offers a range of options and packages to personalize your Explorer further, regardless of the trim level you choose:
Twin-Panel Moonroof: Available on all trims, this feature adds an open-air feeling to the cabin.
Cargo Management System: Includes a cargo net and organizers to secure your belongings.
Second-Row Console (when equipped with captain’s chairs): Adds additional storage and cup holders for rear passengers.
Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+: Enhances the standard safety features with Evasive Steering Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go.
Premium Technology Package: Available in higher trims, it includes features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 14-speaker B&O sound system.
Cold Weather Package: Adds heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and windshield wiper de-icer.
2025 Ford Explorer: Choosing Your Ideal Explorer
The Ford Explorer trim levels offer a wide range of options to suit various preferences and needs:
The Active trim provides a solid foundation with essential features and capabilities.
The ST-Line offers a sporty appearance without the full performance upgrade.
The Platinum trim delivers luxury and advanced technology for a premium experience.
The ST trim caters to performance enthusiasts without sacrificing utility.
When selecting your Explorer, consider your priorities:
If you need seating for seven, the Active trim is your only option.
For the best fuel efficiency, stick with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
If performance is a priority, the ST trim with its 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is the way to go.
For the most luxurious experience, the Platinum trim offers top-tier amenities.
Ultimately, the diverse trim levels of the Ford Explorer ensure a perfect match for every driver. Whether you prioritize practicality, performance, or luxury, the Explorer lineup has you covered. Visit your local Ford dealership to experience these trims in person and find the Explorer that best fits your lifestyle and needs.