2025 Ford Explorer Interior Technology Refined

The 2025 Ford Explorer's interior has a fresh, new look with premium materials, advanced technology, and thoughtful design. If you're considering the sporty ST, luxurious Platinum, or versatile Active trim, the Explorer's cabin offers a modern driving experience that feels both intuitive and upscale. The starting MSRP of a new Explorer has jumped from around $38,500 for the 2024 model to $39,785 for 2025. This guide will explore some of the standout interior technologies of the 2025 Ford Explorer.

The Evolution of the Explorer's Interior

The Ford Explorer has come a long way since its rugged debut in 1991. Fast forward to 2025, and the interior is now all about innovation and a premium experience. This year's updates are more than just cosmetic, though — they're designed to change how drivers and passengers interact with the SUV. Key updates include:

• A redesigned dashboard that offers a spacious front row
• New soft-touch materials on door panels, center consoles, and dashboards
• New interior color schemes
• Standard Ford Digital Experience with upgraded software (the Explorer is the first to offer this)
• Standard 13.2-inch infotainment touch screen across all trims

Visit Stivers ORO Ford to experience the Ford Explorer in person or keep reading to learn more.

Key Interior Technology Upgrades

Below are some of the key tech upgrades in the 2025 Ford Explorer.

The Ford Digital Experience

Say goodbye to the old SYNC system — Ford has introduced its Google-based Ford Digital Experience platform. This new infotainment system is standard across all trims and features a larger 13.2-inch touch screen (an 8-inch screen was included on the base in 2024) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

A built-in Google Assistant provides voice commands, allowing you to access Google Maps, YouTube, and even games through the system. The interface is sleek, responsive, and user-friendly. For example, climate controls are now part of the screen itself, but there are still old-school physical volume knobs for those who prefer them.

Digital Driver Display

The 12.3-inch gauge cluster is fully digital and offers customizable layouts. You can choose between traditional speedometer displays and more dynamic options, such as navigation overlays. For example, when using Google Maps, you can view turn-by-turn directions directly in the cluster — a feature previously exclusive to luxury brands.

Seating Comfort

Ford has prioritized comfort in the 2025 Explorer. Lower trims feature easier-to-clean, stain-resistant, yet soft ActiveX upholstery. The Platinum trim has quilted leather seats with contrast stitching that wouldn't look out of place in a luxury SUV. Second-row captain's chairs are standard on most trims, but you can opt for a bench seat to accommodate up to seven passengers. Some models feature heated and cooling seats, with massaging options available on higher trims, such as the Platinum. Front-row legroom measures an impressive 43 inches, while second-row passengers enjoy 39 inches — plenty of space for taller adults or growing kids.

Clever Storage Solutions

Ford has added clever storage options throughout the cabin. A new tray beneath the touch screen houses a wireless charging pad on higher trims. Covered storage compartments in the center console keep your valuables hidden yet easily accessible. Rear rows feature USB ports for every passenger — a thoughtful touch for families juggling multiple devices. The Explorer offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46 cubic feet behind the second, and a total of 85 cubic feet with all rear seats folded flat.

Other Standout Features

The Explorer has an unintrusive driver monitor right above the steering wheel. It does the job without distracting you with false alerts. The rotary dial is another unusual but useful addition, giving more space in the front. Overall, the Explorer promises a quiet drive.

Climate Control Innovations

Three-zone climate control is standard across all trims, allowing all passengers to choose their own temperature settings. Higher trims include adaptive climate features that adjust the settings based on sunlight intensity or outside conditions — a particularly convenient feature if you live in an area with unpredictable weather. Higher trims get rear air vents on the roof and a panoramic sunroof, which is great for allowing more air into the cabin.

Audio System

A 10- or 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo is now standard on all trims except the base Active, which has six speakers placed throughout the cabin.

Driver-Assistance Technology

BlueCruise 1.2 is new for 2025 — this hands-free driving system is available on certain trims, including the Platinum and ST-Line. It works on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped highways across North America. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are standard. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts your speed based on the traffic around you, while lane-centering assist keeps you safely within your lane without requiring any manual intervention. Other driver-assistance technologies include optional self-parking.

Interior Colors

We mentioned before that Ford has given the new model a revamp with fresh interior colors. You can now choose from more sophisticated colors, including Light Space Gray, Black Onyx, Ultra Dark Space Gray, Salt Crystal Gray, and Mojave Dusk.

Test Drive the 2025 Ford Explorer at Stivers ORO Ford in Oracle, Arizona

The 2025 Ford Explorer's interior doesn't just look good; it feels good, too. From its Google-powered infotainment system to its plush seating options and hands-free driving tech, this SUV is built for modern families. Starting at $39,785 MSRP for the base model and climbing to over $52,000 for Platinum, there's an Explorer for every budget and lifestyle. If you're looking for a three-row SUV that blends comfort and technology without feeling overwhelming, the 2025 Ford Explorer should be at the top of your list. Contact Stivers ORO Ford for a test drive today.

Images by Car and Driver