The idea of the quintessential family vacation road trip is transforming. It used to be characterised by the stops at petrol stations and the rattle of a combustion engine, but now a new generation of electrically powered road trips is emerging. Ford, a name long associated with adventure and reliability, is leading the pack. The all-new 2025 Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD has been creating a constant positive buzz lately, and for good reason. It’s not just any other electric vehicle; it’s a purpose-built electric SUV that’s designed to become part of modern family life, integrated effortlessly.

The Explorer EV retains all the practical and premium elements of a conventional family SUV while also blending Ford’s rugged legacy with cutting-edge electric technology. This is not just a glorified version of an old classic; it’s a redefinition from the ground up of what a family automobile should be. With its exceptional long-range potential, state-of-the-art interior technology, and an exterior that is daring and aerodynamic, the Explorer Extended Range AWD offers so much more. It is said to do away with range anxiety while offering the room, comfort, and safety that families need, ultimately changing the way we think about the future of family travel.

This thorough review of the Explorer Extended Range AWD 2025 will cover all the angles of this thrilling new release. We’ll discuss the design concepts, analyse the on-road performance, and review the high-tech equipment. From its adaptable cabin to how it stacks up against the main rivals, we want to give you a clear idea of why this electric SUV is one of the most eagerly awaited launches of the year.

• Go the distance with confidence: The extended range battery is engineered for long journeys, turning ambitious family road trips into reality without constant charging stops.
• Cutting-edge cabin experience: A large, movable touchscreen and advanced driver aids transform the cabin into a connected and secure command centre for any journey.
• Distinctive and functional design: The Explorer’s bold, shield-like front end isn’t just for looks; it contributes to an aerodynamic profile that enhances efficiency and range.

Quick Recap: 2025 Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD

• Make: Ford
• Year: 2025
• Dimensions: five-door, five-seat SUV
• Trims: Explorer, Explorer Premium
• Interior and exterior design: Showcases a bold, closed grille paired with sharp LED lighting and an aero silhouette. The cabin is designed with a large, portrait-mode moving touchscreen and is pragmatic with a lot of storage.
• Motors and driving review: It’s two electric motors that deliver instantaneous torque and brisk acceleration. “The AWD system provides great grip, great poise, and the suspension is very compliant, so you can really cover long distances very well.”
• Engine Options: Extended Range RWD (with a 77kWh battery pack) and Extended Range AWD (with a 79kWh battery pack) are offered.
• Innovations & Features: Features include the 14.6-inch SYNC Move touchscreen, a private locker behind the screen, advanced driver-assistance technology, and a roomy ‘MegaConsole’ for storing.
• Comparison: It rivals the Volkswagen ID.4, its cousin the Skoda Enyaq iV and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with a US-inspired design and futuristic interior tech.
• Price Range: Pricing is expected to be competitive in the family electric SUV segment, with an RRP to be announced for the UK sale.

Explorer Extended Range AWD: Manufacturer Overview & Design Inspirations

Ford’s vehicle design ethos has always been deeply informed by a keen understanding of what its customers want, blending the practical and aspirational. With the new electric Explorer, that philosophy is turned up to the max. The ethos of building vehicles “for life’s adventurers” is at the heart of the brand, so it’s no surprise that it shows with every curve and function. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about building a reliable companion for everything from the everyday school run to the cross-country adventure. The electric Explorer performs a starring role in Ford’s global roadmap to electrify, with the themes of sustainability and technology innovation.

It’s a piece of engineering that combines Volkswagen’s well-proven MEB platform as a base with some truly Ford character, and as the whole development is a joint effort, this is unique in the industry. This strategic collaboration enables Ford to leverage a mature electric architecture and bring its expertise to the forefront in terms of design, driving dynamics and user experience.

The end result is a vehicle that feels both brawny and practical as well as up-to-date. Sustainability is a central theme, with the electric powertrain generating zero tailpipe emissions and the interior utilising more sustainable materials, in line with the values of a new breed of purchaser. This car is part of another milestone for Ford as it moves towards the electrification of all models in Europe. By calling it Explorer, Ford connects this new-age vehicle to a legacy of toughness and adventure, reminding customers that its electric future is just as capable as its storied past. The design and technology are deliberately bold and stylised, with the goal of making moving to electric driving not only easy but truly desirable.

• Built on a trusted foundation: Utilising the proven MEB platform ensures a reliable and efficient electric architecture, giving you peace of mind from the start.
• American spirit, European focus: The design merges bold American SUV styling with the dimensions and handling characteristics suited for European roads.
• A commitment to a cleaner future: As a zero-tailpipe-emission vehicle, the Explorer aligns with sustainable values without compromising on capability or style.

Design & Exterior

The 2025 Ford Explorer EV’s exterior design language is a lesson in balancing ruggedness with refinement. It swaps the familiar grille found on petrol-powered American versions of the Mustang for a clean, sealed-off ‘shield’ look. Elsewhere, this is an important signal for being an electric vehicle and, at least equally as important, for the aerodynamics. The bold Explorer script across the front edge of the bonnet is a firm nod to heritage, while the slim, horizontal light clusters provide a contemporary and focused look.

Its design is a long wheelbase, short overhang shape, which is typical for MEB-based vehicles. This roots out more boot space, and also helps in making the stance more stable and grounded on the road. The side profile is clean, simple, and minimalistic, boasting the ‘floating roof’ theme due to the blacked out A-, B- and C-pillars that lend a bit of class. The beautifully sculpted body sides play with light at every angle, creating the sense of movement in the vehicle even when it is parked. At the back, the tall tail-lights invoke traditional SUV styling by wrapping around the tailgate, and help the Explorer to stand out from the crowd.

Everything has been designed with the form and function of both in mind. Since the streamlined styling serves a function as well as form, it enables the Explorer Extended Range AWD performance numbers to be as efficient as possible so you can travel as far as possible on one charge. All of these thoughtful elements, down to the signature lighting and the wheel designs, add up to a vehicle that looks confident, capable, and that could take you on any adventure you might dream up.

• Aerodynamic shield design: The smooth front grille reduces drag, helping to extend your driving range on motorways.
• Distinctive LED lighting: Provides superior visibility at night while creating an unmistakable, modern look on the road.
• Floating roof effect: Blacked-out pillars give the Explorer a sleek, premium profile that stands out in any car park.

Explorer Extended Range AWD: Variants & Trims Breakdown

With the matter of value and features, Ford concentrates where it matters most: For 2022, Ford has streamlined the electric Explorer lineup. There are two main trims in the line-up: ‘Explorer,’ which is already quite well equipped, and ‘Explorer Premium,’ which is more luxurious. This means that deciding on the right grade is easy, as the difference is mainly in the specification and interior trim.

The Explorer trim on the base model is far from rudimentary. It also includes a number of comfort and convenience features such as the 14.6-inch SYNC Move touchscreen, heated front seats and steering wheel, driver seat with massage function, and keyless entry. It establishes a high bar for the entire lineup and helps make every driver feel like a premium one. This is the ideal choice for those families who require all the basic modern technology and comfort but don’t need the highest level of cosmetic and luxury enhancements.

The already remarkable Explorer Premium is made even better with a dash of high-end panache and a few extra upgrades. Options typically include lavish Sensico upholstery, ambient cabin lighting to create a more personalised interior atmosphere, distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels (in contrast with the 19-inch wheels found on the standard version), and a power tailgate that works hands-free. It is the Premium trim that is aimed at those who want that extra bit of refinement and visual excitement to take the Explorer into an area that could easily be confused for a premium European marque. Optional packages, including a wide panoramic glass roof and an advanced driver-assistance suite, will also be offered to tailor either trim down the road.

• Standard heated wheel and seats: Enjoy immediate warmth and comfort on cold winter mornings, right from the entry-level model.
• The driver massage function is standard: Helps reduce fatigue on long journeys, ensuring you arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed.
• Hands-free power tailgate (Premium): Allows you to open the boot with a simple foot gesture when your hands are full of shopping or luggage.

Spec Sheet Appendix

Performance & Driving Experience: Explorer Extended Range AWD

The 2025 Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD provides a driving experience both thrilling and comfortably confident. At the core is a dual-motor setup powered by a 79kWh (usable) battery that delivers a robust 340 PS (around 335 bhp). The result is immediate, linear acceleration so typical of new EVs, sending the SUV from 0-62 mph in a very respectable 5.3 secs. The maximum speed is electronically restricted to 112 mph, which is adequate for all public road conditions. Torque delivery is smooth and seamless , and it feels unobtrusive while you are throwing it to your four wheels through the single-speed automatic gearbox.

Powertrain & Acceleration

Out On the road, this means the driving experience is effortless and quick. The electric motors’ instant torque makes driving in the city a delight; entering traffic and pulling away from stop lights feels instant and decisive. You still never feel like you are short of power. Whether you’re on winding country roads or performing motorway overtakes, the Explorer reacts with an urgency that seems at odds with its family-friendly image. The all-wheel-drive system delivers superior traction, so you can feel confident in the rain or on ice.

Ford’s made the suspension and steering feel distinctly… Ford. It is very good over a rough surface, maintaining a good balance between comfort and control quality of the ride. It forges a path over bumps and broken bitumen with calm assurance on which passengers can hold comfortably for a long distance. Yet it isn’t soft or numb. Heavy enough to feel authoritative, light enough to be precise, the steering lets you feel connected to the tarmac. You can choose from several driving modes: Normal, Sport, Eco, and Individual, which adjust throttle response, steering feel, and even the ambient lighting of the cabin to match your mood or the weather outside.

• Instant torque on demand: Effortlessly merge onto motorways or accelerate away from traffic lights for a safer and more responsive drive.
• All-Wheel Drive security: The dual-motor system provides superior grip and stability in rain, snow, or on loose surfaces, giving you confidence in all seasons.
• Balanced suspension setup: Enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride that absorbs bumps without feeling disconnected from the road, perfect for UK B-roads.

First Drive Review

Our inaugural drive in the Explorer Extended Range AWD was truly impressive. The overall sensation is one of subtle polish. At the speed we were driving in town, the cabin was calm and quiet, muffling the sound of the world outside. The ease and immediacy with which you can drive is the most striking. One-pedal driving is well-tuned, and you can get most of the way through city driving by just whacking and letting up on the accelerator. It’s both relaxing and efficient.

The performance potential of the Explorer came shining through when we hit an open road. Sport mode makes the throttle response crisper, and that firm press on the pedal unleashes a surprising surge of acceleration that pushes your back in the Sensico seats that are so comfortable. The steering is confident and predictable. Through a series of sweeping bends, the Explorer concurred, aided by the low-slung battery, which helped create a stable centre of gravity. It may be a family SUV, but it has a bit of Ford’s famously fun-to-drive DNA. It’s a car that makes you feel confident, whether you’re steering through a cramped multi-storey car park or tearing down the motorway.

• Relaxing one-pedal driving: Simplifies stop-start city traffic by allowing you to accelerate and brake with a single pedal, reducing driver fatigue.
• Quiet and refined cabin: The electric powertrain and excellent sound insulation create a peaceful environment for conversations or enjoying the audio system.
• Confident and stable handling: The low centre of gravity and precise steering make the car feel planted and secure, even on challenging roads.

Explorer Extended Range AWD: Interior, Comfort & Technology

Step into the 2025 Ford Explorer and you’ll find a cabin that’s futuristic, roomy and incredibly practical. The headline feature is the large, 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen, which Ford calls the ‘SYNC Move’ display. It can be raised or lowered, so you can set it at the best height for you to see or to hide your belongings above or below it. A ‘Private Locker’ can be used to hide valuables. That one screen is used to perform nearly all the car’s functions, navigation, media, climate control, etc, which results in a neat, button-free dashboard look.

The cabin layout focuses on space and function. The front seats provide good support and comfort, and the driver has a standard massage feature (a wonderful luxury to have on long drives). Quality of the materials is high with the use of soft-touch materials, hard-wearing textiles and good-quality Sensico upholstery on the Premium trim. One of the best-designed storage spaces is the ‘MegaConsole’ in the centre. At 17 litres, it’s big enough to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, several large water bottles or a purse, while keeping essentials safe and out of sight.

Connectivity is a strong point. The infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy phone integration. A wireless charging plate is standard, and numerous USB-C ports are available for the front and rear passengers. The digital instrument cluster is crisp and fully configurable, allowing you to view all the important driving information at a glance. With high-tech features and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), the technology on board the Explorer brings not just convenience, but a safer, more relaxing driving experience.

• SYNC Move touchscreen: Adjust the screen to your preferred height for better ergonomics or to hide the screen for a minimalist look.
• Private Locker storage: Securely store your wallet, phone, or other small valuables out of sight behind the main screen.
• 17-litre MegaConsole: Provides an enormous, versatile storage space between the front seats, keeping your cabin tidy and organised.

Driving Modes & Personalisation Technology

Built to your needs: The Explorer’s engineering was all about customising the driving experience. Modes Normal, Sport, Eco, Individual and Traction (on AWD models) do more than just modify throttle response. They manipulate the steering feel, the regenerative braking level, and also the interior ambient light to produce an overall mood. In ‘Eco’ mode, the vehicle fine-tunes all the systems for maximum range, whereas in ‘Sport’ mode, it unleashes the full 340 PS for a dynamic drive. ‘Individual’ mode enables you to combine and customise settings to your ideal setup.

The advantages of the tech go well beyond performance. The SYNC Move system is revolutionary in terms of usability. It is easy to navigate with its large, clear interface, and because it can descend, it can give you a less distracting view when you just want to keep your eyes on the road. Behind the scenes, Ford’s advanced driver-assistance technologies operate like an attentive co-pilot. Features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centring greatly lessen the fatigue of motorway driving, while the new Assisted Lane Change allows the car to change lanes on your behalf at the press of the indicator stalk.

These are not gimmicks, but technologies that bring real benefits to driver and vehicle safety. For instance, the intelligent navigation system can plan routes that take into account charging stops, telling you how long you need to charge at each stop, effectively eliminating range anxiety. Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates. Your car can improve over time with more features and enhancements without a trip to the dealer. Having all of this smart integration at your fingertips makes the Explorer feel less like something you drive and more like a connected device, always on, and always getting better.

• Assisted Lane Change: Take the stress out of motorway driving by letting the car perform smooth, safe lane changes for you.
• Intelligent route planning: The navigation system automatically adds charging stops to long journeys, providing peace of mind and seamless travel.
• Over-the-air updates: Your car’s software and features will be continuously improved over time, ensuring it always feels fresh and up-to-date.

Safety & Reliability

Safe: it’s a non-negotiable in a family SUV, and Ford includes a full complement of modern safety equipment on the Explorer. No official Euro NCAP safety ratings will be available until then, but the car is built on a platform that has received five stars for other models. The Explorer is equipped with multiple airbags, a strong safety cell that shields passengers and sophisticated electronic stability control systems designed to prevent crashes from occurring.

The real surprise, though, comes in the form of a bundle of state-of-the-art driver-assistance features (ADAS). That is the part where the Explorer really feels like a new-generation vehicle. Bent over a desk in front of a computer, they can be seen laughing, gasping with surprise, and cheering for their characters on the screen when a Pre-Collision Assist with automatic emergency braking (which can sense vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

And the big winner for many will be the sophisticated adaptive cruise control system. It does more than maintain distance from the car in front: It can stop the car completely and then start it up again in traffic, all while making sure you are perfectly centred in your lane.

With this semi-autonomous feature, long motorway drives become so much less tiring. The inclusion of Assisted Lane Change is yet another big leap forward; a tap of the turn signal now prompts the car to check its blind spots and then smoothly move over to the next lane if there’s no obstacle. Moreover, Blind Spot Information System, a high‐resolution 360‐degree camera, and Exit Warning (warns you of cyclists coming from behind before you open your door) create an all-encompassing safety net. Here in this Explorer, you know that the technology is smart as well as having common sense, increasing your awareness and working overtime to protect your family.

• Semi-autonomous driving aids: Reduce fatigue on long trips with adaptive cruise control and lane centring, which manage speed and steering on motorways.
• 360-degree camera system: Makes parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces simple and stress-free by giving you a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings.
• Exit Warning system: Helps prevent ‘dooring’ accidents by alerting you to approaching cyclists or vehicles before you open your door into traffic.

Comparison Section: Explorer vs Competitors

The market for family electric SUVs is highly competitive. The Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD competes for space against such strong competition as the Volkswagen ID.4, Skoda Enyaq iV and Hyundai Ioniq 5. They each provide a different mix of looks, range and usefulness. Explorer is all about big, bold American styling and a technology-packed cabin that is equally bold.

The Volkswagen ID.4, based on the same MEB platform, has a more reserved and minimalist look. It’s a very capable and sensible pick, but its technology and interior layout aren’t as adventurous as Ford’s. With the explorer’s massive SYNC Move screen and large MEGAConsole storage, it also takes the cabin innovation and everyday utility honours. Practicality The Skoda Enyaq iV is the most practical car in this segment, with a huge boot and a roomy, refined cabin. It’s an exceptionally brilliant family car. But with a lot more power and a much quicker turn of pace, the Explorer AWD is definitely the more fun car to drive. Enyaq is supremely comfortable, and Explorer infuses the practical package with a bit of driving fun.

With its retro-futuristic looks and ultra-rapid 800V charging technology architecture, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the most eye-catching EVs on sale today. The speed with which it charges is its greatest selling point. But the Ford Explorer responds with an interior layout that is more traditional, and arguably easier to use, and a driving experience that is focused more on comfort and composure and which will likely appeal more to buyers of more traditional SUVs.

• Outperforms key rivals: The Explorer’s 5.3-second 0-62 mph time is faster than the equivalent VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq, offering a more dynamic drive.
• A cabin that stands apart: The SYNC Move screen and MegaConsole are unique features in this class, providing unmatched tech and storage.
• Competitive range: With an estimated 351-mile range, the Explorer is at the sharp end of the class, ensuring it’s ready for long family adventures.

Why Choose the Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD?

It’s not just buying an electric vehicle when you choose the Explorer Extended Range AWD, but a vehicle that gets modern family life and makes it easier. Ford has earned its reputation for building tough, capable vehicles for the masses, and the Explorer EV is that expertise translated to the electric era. It imparts an altogether American feeling of adventure and ruggedness into a European-sized format, resulting in a vehicle that is at once thrill-seeking and thoroughly practical.

What makes the Explorer so; appealing is its well-executed combination of value propositions. It has the range to cater for long haul holiday drives, the All Wheel Drive security for those slippery British winters and the performance to make everyday driving fun. The interior stands out by turning the cabin from a space for passengers into a connected, comfortable, and organised home for the family. This is a vehicle created for the mayhem of everyday life, with a place for everything, and technology that makes every trip easier and more pleasant . It’s this attention to user experience that makes Ford stand out from the crowd.”

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Stunning and innovative interior: The SYNC Move screen and MegaConsole are class-leading features.
• Strong performance and range: Quick acceleration and a long-range battery make it both fun and practical.
• Comprehensive safety technology: Advanced driver aids provide peace of mind and reduce driver fatigue.
• Bold and distinctive design: Stands out from the crowd of more conservatively styled rivals.

Cons

• Reliance on the touchscreen: Some drivers may miss having physical buttons for key controls.
• Boot space is good, but not class-leading: The Skoda Enyaq offers more luggage capacity.
• Final pricing is still to be confirmed: Its ultimate value proposition depends on the final Explorer Extended Range AWD price.

The Future of Family Adventure Is Here

2025 Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD Review: The 2025 Ford Explorer Extended Range AWD isn’t just another electric SUV; it’s a mark of how far Ford has come when it comes to making innovation real in everyday use. It achieves a rare harmony of forward-thinking design, clever technology, and the comfort and usability real-world families want and need. From its confident stance to its smooth, silent power delivery, this SUV elevates what it means to travel in style and efficiency.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. For families that want to make the transition to electric transportation without making the same compromises they have with other EVs on range, performance or room, the Explorer Extended Range AWD checks every one of those boxes. It is convincingly capable on long-distance journeys, but also refined and quiet in the city, a balance that’s rare in the burgeoning EV market.

This vehicle is a new generation of intelligent, family-first electric SUVs. If any vehicle is up to such a task, from school runs to road trips and does so with modern class and signature Ford ruggedness, it’s the Explorer Extended Range AWD. Ford hasn’t simply made the Explorer nameplate electric; it has taken it into the future of family travel.

Experience unmatched innovation and power with the Explorer Extended Range AWD Review. Reserve your test drive now at The.Car and feel the difference.