If you’re looking for a three-row SUV that's affordable with features galore, and you don’t want to get lost in endless options, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active might be a trim to consider. Let’s break down what it offers and why it should be on your short list.
Key Takeaways
- BlueCruise hands-free driving now comes standard, along with Ford’s new Digital Experience system.
- Fuel economy is solid for a three-row SUV, especially with the standard 2.3L engine.
- As of August 1, 2025, the Ford Explorer Active starts at $41,745.
A Smarter Update for 2025, But Not a Full Redesign
Ford didn’t do a full overhaul for 2025. Instead, it refined the Explorer in ways that actually improve your day-to-day driving. The lineup is more focused this year, which means less confusion and fewer bloated packages to sift through. The front grille and lighting got a subtle refresh, but it still looks like an Explorer, just a little more dialed in.
The Active trim now includes standard BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving, plus Ford’s new Digital Experience system. That means you’ve got Google built right into the dash—Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to Google Play apps like Spotify or YouTube Music. Ford cleaned things up with softer materials, smarter storage, and front seats that feel noticeably more comfortable. You’ll also find simplified controls and a more intuitive infotainment layout.
Explorer Active Powertrain Options
The base engine in the Explorer Active is Ford’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. It delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for most daily drivers, even with a full load of passengers or gear.
If you want something with more muscle, the optional 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 cranks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Either engine comes with a 10-speed automatic, and you can choose between rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive.
Fuel Efficiency Without Sacrificing Power
If fuel economy matters to you, the 2.3L engine is your best bet. It gets up to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, which is impressive for a three-row SUV with this much power. Even the more powerful V6 isn’t bad, delivering 18 city/26 highway.
Interior Upgrades in the 2025 Explorer Active
The Active trim makes the Explorer feel premium without going full luxury. You get new color choices, soft-touch materials, and a more open, airy feel in the front row. Second-row seats now slide forward with the push of a button to make third-row access easier. That means there's no more wrestling with levers or awkward reach-arounds.
Tech-wise, you’re getting the good stuff. An 11.2-inch touchscreen comes standard, and the new infotainment system helps you stay updated thanks to cloud-based voice commands and over-the-air updates.
Is the Explorer Active the Right Trim for You?
If you want something that rides smooth, looks good, and doesn’t make you pay extra for features you’ll actually use, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active is worth a closer look. Come check it out for yourself and take it for a spin at Banner Ford in Mandeville. The Explorer Active might be exactly what you’ve been looking for!