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.

2025 Red Ford Explorer
2025 Red Ford Explorer

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.