From Practical to Luxurious: Choosing the Best 2025 Ford Explorer Trim for Your Lifestyle

As a Minnesotan, you understand the need for a vehicle that can handle everything from snow-covered streets to summer road trips. The 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a range of trims designed to meet diverse driving needs. Let’s break down the key features of the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims to help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle.

Active: The Foundation of Capability

The Active trim provides a solid foundation, equipped with a 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine. This engine balances power and efficiency, making it perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures. The 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster keep you connected while exploring Minnesota’s scenic landscape.

Safety features are prioritized with Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ that includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centering. The standard Class III Trailer Tow Package offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it ideal for bringing along your boat or camper. Inside, the Active offers front-row heated seats and an 8-way power passenger seat, ensuring comfort during Minnesota's chilly winters. Additionally, the 5G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot keeps you connected on the go, while the remote start and universal garage door opener emphasize convenience.

Standout features for the Active trim include:

• 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine
• 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster
• Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control
• Class III Trailer Tow Package with 5,000 lb. max towing capacity
• Front-row heated seats

ST-Line: A Sportier Look and Enhanced Features

If you desire a more dynamic driving experience, the ST-Line trim could be your ideal choice. Building on the Active trim, the ST-Line introduces BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving, perfect for those long stretches on I-94 to the Twin Cities. The ST-Line also includes Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist 2.0 with a 360-degree camera for enhanced safety. The sporty 20-inch machined aluminum wheels and unique cloth inserts with red stitching give the ST-Line a distinctive flair.

The B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with ten speakers, including a subwoofer, ensures an impressive audio experience while navigating Minnesota’s winding roads. The available ST-Line Street Package and Premium Package allow for further customization, letting you tailor your Explorer to your personal style.

Standout features for the ST-Line trim include:

• BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving
• 20-inch machined aluminum wheels
• Unique cloth inserts with red stitching
• B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers
• Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist 2.0 with 360-degree camera

ST: Power and Performance

For those who crave performance, the ST trim is a standout option. Featuring a powerful 400 hp 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine and sport-tuned suspension, the ST promises an exhilarating driving experience. Whether navigating steep hills or winding roads, this SUV keeps you engaged behind the wheel.

The ST trim also boasts red-painted performance front- and rear-brake calipers and 21-inch magnetite-painted aluminum wheels, enhancing its aggressive look. Miko® seating surfaces with red accent stitching and ST logos add a refined touch, while the B&O® Sound System guarantees high-quality audio.The third-row PowerFold® seat offers versatility, allowing you to create extra cargo space when needed. A wireless charging pad keeps your devices powered up on the go, ensuring you're always connected.

Standout features for the ST trim include:

• 400 hp 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Red-painted performance front- and rear-brake calipers
• 21-inch magnetite-painted aluminum wheels
• Miko® seating surfaces with red accent stitching

Platinum: The Pinnacle of Luxury

Finally, the Platinum trim represents the height of luxury in the Explorer lineup. It features Platinum-branded ActiveX® trimmed seats with leather perforated inserts, offering pure elegance. The multicontour front-row seats come with Active Motion® massage, ensuring comfort during long journeys.

The Platinum trim also boasts a 980-watt B&O® Sound System with 14 speakers, providing an unparalleled audio experience as you cruise down Minnesota’s scenic byways. The Panoramic Vista Roof® with a power shade adds a unique open-air feel, perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

Standout features for the Platinum trim include:

• Platinum-branded ActiveX® trimmed seats with leather perforated inserts
• Heated and ventilated multicontour seats with Active Motion® massage
• 980-watt B&O® Sound System with 14 speakers
• Panoramic Vista Roof® with power shade
• Second-row heated seats