Which 2025 Ford
Explorer should you park in your driveway, the Active or the Platinum? Our comparison guide takes a closer
look at these handsomely equipped midsize SUVs.
Key Takeaways
- When you’re shopping for a luxurious Explorer, nothing beats the Platinum. But if you’re after the best
price, the Active is the best possible choice!
- Both SUVs are handsomely equipped with comfort and tech features. Meanwhile, the Platinum adds upscale
items like leather seating.
- These trim models come standard with the Explorer’s 300-horsepower EcoBoost engine. But only the
top-tier Platinum is available with the 400-horsepower V6 upgrade!
- Get the lowest price on a 2025 Explorer when you choose the Active (from $40,050*) or enjoy maximum
luxury with the Platinum (from $52,525*)!
Which is better, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or Platinum?
Usually when people ask us this, we find they’re really asking, “Is the Platinum trim more
luxurious than the Active Explorer?” And the answer happens to be yes! While the Active is the Explorer’s
entry-level model, the Platinum is the most luxurious option.
Of course, there are plenty of reasons one might choose the Active over the Platinum —
starting with price. And as we’ll see, the Active’s wide-ranging standard lineup and powerful performance
are thoroughly impressive!
What comes standard on the 2025 Ford Explorer Active and Platinum trims?
The Active might be the entry-level Explorer, but it’s very handsomely equipped with comfort and tech
features. Tri-zone automatic climate control helps you manage humid summers, and smartphone-friendly
infotainment keeps you connected for the long haul. High-tech safety aids — including adaptive cruise
control and lane-keeping assist — help you navigate crowded city streets.
Active
- 18-inch Sparkle Silver wheels
- Cloth upholstery
- Heated, power-adjustable front-row seats
- Second-row captain’s seats
- Third-row 50/50 split-folding bench seat
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- 12.3-inch instrument panel cluster
- Ford Digital Experience infotainment with 13.2-inch touchscreen and Google-based software
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- LED headlamps and taillamps
- Power liftgate
- Class III Trailer Tow Package
- Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ suite of safety aids (including adaptive cruise control with Stop-and-Go and
Lane-Centering)
- Optional Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade
- Optional LED signature lighting
- Optional Active Comfort Package
Of course, upgrading to the more luxurious Explorer Platinum is not without its perks. Heated
and ventilated front seats make sure you’re always comfy, no matter the weather. Tech upgrades — including a
premium sound system and hands-free driving capabilities — help create a high-end cruise. And we can’t
forget the Platinum’s style upgrades, from its panoramic moonroof to its satin chrome trim!
Platinum
- 20-inch Luster Nickel wheels
- ActiveX seating with diamond-perforated leather inserts
- Heated and ventilated front seats with Active Motion massage and driver memory
- Heated second-row captain’s chairs
- Third-row PowerFold bench (folds flat)
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Leather-covered center console armrest
- Leather-wrapped door rollovers
- 14-speaker B&O sound system, including subwoofer
- Wireless charging pad
- Ambient interior lighting
- BlueCruise (one-year plan)
- Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade
- Satin chrome and Ebony grille
- Satin aluminum door handles and lower bodyside trim
- Adaptive LED headlamps and LED tail lamps with Amber turn signals
How much horsepower do the 2025 Ford Explorer Active and Platinum deliver?
These SUVs are as powerful as they are family-friendly, featuring a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine. Better
still, both trim models are available with sporty all-wheel drive, maximizing traction when it’s time to travel your
favorite off-road trails. However, there’s one big difference between these Explorer trim models — the more
luxurious Active is available with a twin-turbo V6 upgrade. With it, your Explorer Active delivers 400 horses!
2025 Ford Explorer Powertrain Options
- 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 311 lb-ft of torque)
- Optional for Platinum: 3.0L turbocharged V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Which is more affordable, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or Platinum?
As the base trim model, the 2025 Explorer Active offers the best price, starting at $40,050*. Then
again, the more luxurious 2025 Explorer Platinum delivers a wealth of upgrades at a great rate, with an MSRP of
$52,525*. No matter which of these family-friendly SUVs is more your style, however, you can visit us at Banner Ford to get
yours! We’re proud to serve Mandeville, LA, and beyond.
*MSRP as of 12/10/25. Subject to change.