If you are looking for a SUV that also has a 3rd row, then the 2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line may be an option to look at. There is quite a bit of competition when it comes to 3rd row seats, but might this Explorer have something better or more interesting than the others?
Engine/Transmission
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a choice between a 2.3L Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a twin turbo 3.0L V6, with the ST Line featuring the 2.3L I-4 engine. Both engines have a 10-speed automatic transmission with auto start/stop tech. The 2.3L engine delivers 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, while fuel efficiency is rated at 11.9 L/100km in the city and 8.7 L/100km on the highway. I managed to average 11.3 L/100km, which is not very fuel-efficient for a 4-cylinder.
Handling/Performance
From a stop I did find that the Explorer seemed to struggle to get moving and I do believe its because it is a large SUV with a smaller engine. I found it to have a sluggish transmission but, on the plus, it had smooth shifting. Once on the go however, there was no issue with speeding or trying to overtake another vehicle. It was just the initial start that sounded like it needed to be pushed to get going. I drove a mix of highway and city driving and it was a comfortable drive for both. For daily driving, it can be very smooth except for the auto start-stop. Now it could just be me, but I’m not a fan of these auto start-stops so I found it to take a while to start when at a stop light. I much prefer to disable this feature when driving. One thing to note is that it does not have a quiet cabin; you will hear tire noise intruding into the cabin especially while driving on the highway. Blue Cruise is ok to use but one thing I noticed was that it doesn’t always like to make lane changes, so it doesn’t always work its best. Something that could be refined a bit in the Explorer.
Comfort/Interior
The seats were comfortable as I drove for over an hour in one sitting and I did not feel super uncomfortable or my butt being numb. They are well cushioned and supportive. One unique feature is the massaging front seats which I found to be useful. The 2nd row was also comfortable with the captain’s chairs, but it is a bit flatter for the bum support so if the driver is zigzagging and driving enthusiastically, you will slide a bit. The 3rd row as we all know, are the least comfortable and spacious row. In this Explorer, it really isn’t that great as there is barely any space for adults or taller than average teens to sit. It is more comfortable for children to sit as it isn’t spacious. It is equipped with a 13.2-inch touchscreen which is straightforward to use. One thing to note is that it integrates the climate control on screen so for those who prefer more physical buttons, you don’t get that with the Explorer. One thing I did like about the Explorer ST Line was the amount of small storage space throughout the cabin. I found this to be family friendly. Also, the materials used throughout the upper portion of the cabin is nice to the touch and no rattling noises like some other vehicles. Another great thing was the surround view camera which is clear making it easier to park.
Exterior
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST Line is equipped with 20-inch aluminum wheels and has a great looking exterior. Nothing unique about it as police also use the Explorers. Great SUV to fool some people though.
Pros/Cons
Overall, the 2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line is a decent SUV. It’s comfortable for the front and 2nd row seats, it has enough storage space, it drives great, but it could have a bit more power especially since the fuel efficiency is a bit nonexistent. Unfortunately, it has less leg space compared to its competitors in the 3rd row. I think that the ST or Premium trims here in Canada would be the best option, as those have a bigger engine which means more power and sportier to drive which is more entertaining. The 2025 Ford Explorer ST Line price starts at $58,830 CAD ($44,615 USD).
2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line Gallery
