Is the 2025 Ford Explorer ST a BETTER midsize performance SUV than an Acura MDX Type S?
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- Опубликовано: 16 окт 2024
- FIRST DRIVE: The Explorer is getting some BIG updates from Ford for 2025. On the outside you will discover new 21in wheels, grill and front fascia. On the inside there is a standard 12in infotainment system, updated center console and 12in digital gauge cluster. Powering the Explorer ST is a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 that pumps out 400HP & is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2025 Ford Explorer ST a BETTER midsize performance SUV than an Acura MDX Type S?
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videography: Steven Flood 🎥
Good morning everyone! Let me know in the comments section what you are honestly thinking about the updated Ford Explorer ST.
@@wardellwardI like the way that you think
@@RaitisRides Bill always starts his videos with "Good morning!"🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
Had a 2020 Platinum for 2 years and a ST since 2022. Zero issue.
@@RaitisRides moving the air conditioning into a screen is a complete travesty. They should learn from other manufacturer’s mistakes and leave them as physical buttons
@RaitisRides I love the new 2025 Explorer ST, especially the interior! I'm probably partial however, because I currently own a 2020 Explorer ST. If there was a significant bump in HP I would trade my ST in on a new one. But since there's no change mechanically, it doesn't make any sense. I got rid of my 2019 Explorer Sport for all the new tech, HP and return to RWD in the 2020 ST. Fortunately I just took delivery of my 2024 Ranger Raptor that I should've had back in February. So I'll wait to see what happens with the next generation Explorer ST! Mine is a good truck, and has been trouble free in the past four years, so I'll recommend this new Explorer to anyone sitting on the fence!
I dont care what anyone says. This is a beautiful SUV. The exterior on the previous one was beautiful looking. It was the interior that had questions. But Ford went and redid the whole interior. They nailed it. Not only that. They added a little more flavor to the exterior. And you get the performance! I want this in all black!
I am so glad that you are liking this one.
Garbage
@@Cesar-b7n my opening sentence..
My sentiments exactly 💯👍
Black's not a color...BORING.
My wife’s 2022 Explorer ST with 50k miles has been in shop for a month now getting a whole new engine. Have had numerous issues literally from the day we bought it.
Had mine since 2020, 0 issues
EcoBoost can be a coin toss.
had mine since 2021 zero 0 issues. best suv I ever had
@@samarianosans me too that's why I'm watching this video. Had ordered a new st a few weeks ago
Is it still under warranty? I was so close to buying my wife an 2021 explorer ST or Durango RT but I'm glad she liked the Mazda CX-9
Honestly uploading in the morning is pretty great Joe! I get to eat breakfast and watch a brand new video!
That’s so fantastic to hear! I hope you have a great day!
@@RaitisRides Thank you! You too!
I agree, for us grown up men who love cars, this is like Saturday morning cartoons. Awesome
Joe thank you for bringing the first drive of this nice update Ford explorer 2025. I love this refresh, happy to see that they get rid of the old infotainment system style, this one looks way better.
Agree …. but I like the Platinum trim better.
I had a 2021 ST. The interior was my biggest complaint with the big awkward screen in the middle. The new interior re design looks 1000000X better
@@ralphpaglucca1399 iPads are popular so why not put a look alike in the middle of the dash? Tesla does it. Ram 🐏 trucks too.
I’m been waiting for YOU to review the 2025 Explorer ! Thank you
You are so very welcome!
Just picked up a brand new 2024 ST this month, and I've never been happier with a new car purchase in my life. THIS is the car I was waiting for! Yes, the upright infotainment screen without wireless Android Auto is a zonk, but a very minor zonk. I bought a Motorola wifi adapter that plugs into the USB port and presto! Wireless Android Auto! I actually prefer my 24's front end and grill design over the '25. That tiny LED fog lamp disappears, whereas my 24's Fog Lamp is a bold and sizeable that much better fits that commanding grill design. The dash and phone charger is nice, I have to admit, but I'm preferring my climate centers actual buttons, over the screen controls any day. Yes - Blue Cruise seems nice, but I'm not ready to relinquish control of my vehicle to a robot just yet :) And the 24's wheels? WAY better, IMHO... Love the all black design, over the grey spikey thing on the '25. The matte black fender accents don't bother me - in fact they help break up that sea of rapid red on my car :)
GREAT review though Mr. Raiti, as always!
@herkamer98 What kind of 24's do you have on your ST? I have a 2020 ST with brushed 24" Forgiato's
People talk so much crap and know nothing. My 22 ST gives me more and more joy each day of ownership
100% anytime I want to know more about a certain vehicle I check your page. You helped me go from 2019 f 150 fully loaded lariat to my 2022 ford explorer ST. I’ll be going to the 2025 aviator next. Great work !
The 🐐 finally reviewing the 2025 Explorer!
This guys is GLAZING Ford. I’m not seeing any complaints when. Easiest and most obvious is that the air conditioning is stuck in the screen. I thought the auto manufacturers learned from their mistake
American manufacturers are cooking in interior design lately ngl. Finally they are turning around!
10:08, that was law enforcement vehicles that complained of it, who also drilled holes into the body to attach things to. But there was no actual fault found on Ford.
Ford says it’s to keep the exhausts clean looking. Other manufacturers do two exhausts in one, similar idea. They know we are lazy when it comes to cleaning.
Thanks for that insight on that!
Joe and Lori and Steve keep up the good work real true and I love the video 👍
We can’t do it without you!
Keep up the great work my friend!
You got it man.
I LOVE the new refresh especially the interior looks AMAZING 💯👍
You are the JAMES BROWN of car reviews!!!!
👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏
My favorite part is getting on the freeway and having everyone move over in the fast lane. It’s hilarious. - It’s been the most bang for the buck car I’ve owned, and I’ve had all the European SUVs
Yes of course Joe & I can't wait to drive this.
I am so glad that you are digging this one.
You won't.
The design looks great, the performance is really good and it's something you can use as your daily driving.
You hit every nail on the head Omar!
I drove the 2023 ford explorer limited, it was pretty smooth Joe.
That is awesome to hear!
Interesting that Ford has ditched the rear amber turn signals on the Explorer for red turn signals. Same for the facelift Escape and all F150 trims. The same can be said with Toyota as most of their cars have red turn signals. I think amber is safer than red lights when it comes to turn signals.
That is so very true!
I gotta say Joe it sounds pretty good.
I’m glad that you are liking this one!
I'll be interesting to see if Ford brings back the Timberline or King Ranch trim of the Explorer.
There is zero word so far Chris. I guess we will have to wait and see!
Neither was coming back to make room for the ACTIVE line 😫😫😫
Ford said in a press release that they will be releasing other trims for later model years. This is it for 2025.
Absolutely one awesome vehicle! Thanks Joe for a other awesome review!!
Nice job. You do not go off-road or live in a snowy state or you would be happy about the fender trim not being body color. I live in a semi rural area and do not want the trim in a body color. Painted trim is for city slickers. Rocks and ice would destroy body colored trim.
Great video as usual, Joe!
A few after market upgrades with some E30 and these things are nasty fast.
I agree the fenders should be body colored, but it would be nicer if they budged out smoothly instead of that insetting the fender flares. It needs to be more menacing.
I like the way that you think!
I actually prefer the cladding. The way they make the steel and paint these days, it gets scratched and marred so easily. I got a lot of scrapes and marks on my 2020 above the wheels from parking lots or road rash but it kind of fades away on the cladding, which it wouldn’t do if they were painted.
@@watchreport For that kind of car, would put PPF and ceramic coating and that will protect the paint from scratches, etc.
OMG that drive down the curvy roads was great,I have watchhed it several times.I agree about the black fenders and raised Ex. badge on hood Your Great
Give me The outgoing explorer looks, this ones infotainment
Had a 2020 and nothing but electrical issues. Had the transmission replaced around 40k mi. Such a good performance suv if it worked😩! Lets hope theyve fixed the issues for the new gen🤞🏼
If i ever get a 3 row , this one would be on the list for sure. Its very nice.
Looks quite good. Exhaust could stand to sound more aggressive though. But, it would be even better if Ford could drop in the Dark Horse version of the Coyote V8, or maybe even the supercharged Predator V8. As for ice cream, I wasn't impressed with Baskin Robbins last time I was there. Braum's is my go-to place for ice cream, after a trip to Whataburger.
Very good points!
@@RaitisRidesruclips.net/video/ukcI-H_BRxY/видео.htmlsi=kAkWPrWdnTEtlUfr
Been waiting for this one.
I hope it was worth the wait for you!
Another great review, Joe...as usual. The wife and I have been looking for the right vehicle to smuggle Twinkies and you sold us on the ST. : )
Seriously though, one thing that confused me about the video is the fact that the ST you reviewed didn’t have a moon roof but Ford’s online “Build & Price” states that the moon roof is standard. We actually want one without a moon roof but now I’m not sure what the deal is.
Got my wife a 2021, this thing is a beast, it's a lot of fun to drive, just not long distances.
Why not long distances?
You don't need to manually lower the 3rd row headrests. They will release when you press the down button. Some models have a rease button also on the dash to lower them if they are in the up position.
I’ve been anxiously awaiting for your review Joe on this new Explorer!!! Best reviews!! I have a 2022 ST and simply love it. I am glad they redesigned the interior, it looks great. Are the seats real leather and alcantara inserts? Seriously considering trading mine for a 2025. Wish the wheels were still all gloss black.
It would be sweet if that game could be controlled with the steering wheel/ pedals in the car
YES, DIDN'T start the video yet! But i've been prepping to buy an ST for a few years now, and with the redesign I thought what a perfect present for myself for my 29th/30th bday! ESPECIALLY because there are NO dealer discounts for the 23/24 year model?!? SAME PRICE so why not?!? and with the MDX being 75k PSHH screw that !!
Oh wow! That is awesome! I’m so glad that I could bring it to you.
Joe, The Explorer is the vehicle that makes other cars move over or so down. Agree?
Agree 100% with the Fender Plastic needing to be colour matched!
As usual, great review; very clear and to the point. Thinking seriously about ordering one this Fall. It would be our 3rd car in a 2 person family with no grandkids living nearby, definitely NOT an every day car. I have previously owned (2) two Shelby GTE's, this will be more of a weekend cruiser to do 500 mile trips, etc with some performance joys thrown in. Questions for you, Joe:
1) Rear Wheel vs All wheel drive 2) moonroof vs none 3) anything I should NOT order on it 4) Do I need to add an after market exhaust or do you think the stock Ford Performance one is adequate? 5) if so, any exhaust system recommendations
Joe coming in clutch! Idk how to feel about front it looks like something honda would come up with. That engine bay looks tiny as heck I bet working on that is a pain. I'll never be a fan on the circle shift it just looks stupid a comlum shifter works better. I won't get over owning a suv but not getting a full size spare tire
You brung up very good points!
Well, I'm between this Ford and the Acura MDX Type S. Just watched your Acura review. I'll start by setting the stage, I'm a Ford Guy, I own a Boss 302 LS, had Shelby, F-150, Mustang GT, Taurus, and focus. Never had an Acura, although I have had a couple of Accords. I currently drive a 2019 X5 with the M package. After watching both reviews, I'm defiantly heading to the Acura dealer to place an order and trading the X5. The fit and finish looks tighter on the Acura versus the Explorer, love the blue leather on the Acura. The seats in the Acura look next level versus the Ford. It's just a preference but I trust the Honda motor more than I trust the Ford. The infotainment in the Acura versus the ford is a toss up for me. I do like the 2nd row seating option on the Acura better than the design on the Ford. I'm still a Ford guy and will always love my Mustangs but its time for me to give this Acura a try.
I wouldn’t mind gloss black on the fenders but color match would be better. Prop rod is a major zonk. No panoramic roof is a zonk. The interior is a big improvement from the previous gen.
Panoramic roofs add weight, and hail storms are their biggest enemy.
Panoramic roof will eventually leak.
I have a 2022 Explorer ST, in stone blue metallic. I love it.
Funny thing is the headlights look dated because so many automakers are going to a split daytime running light and lower mounted headlights setup.
Joe it’s called the Ford Digital Experience, it’s not the Sync 4 system, it’s an upgrade!
Thanks Michael of the intel!
I appreciate the video. I currently have the 2020 ST which I absolutely love however, I am picking up my 2025 tomorrow and I am looking forward to all of the new updates in the interior.
We are selling our 23” ST to get a 25”. After hearing the intake sucking air like a shop-vac the other day at the dealership, I have no choice 😂
And yes, the interior is the biggest improvement!!
I also like the older wheels better, but wish they weren’t 21’s. Should’ve went with 20’s or 22’s for more and better tire prices and options. There are only a few options for 21’s and they are expensive.
Oh, and you must do the ST experience if you buy a new one. It’s a blast!!
I disagree about the ride quality. It can be rough, but you’re buying a sport SUV, not a Yukon Denali.
I like the rails. Some of us like to throw a kayak on top but still like a performance ride. With you on the black fenders though. Ford should extend the body instead.
I own a 2008 explorer V8 love it more than the new unibody crossover explorer mine is body on frame rwd with the 4.6 3v engine love it
@premiumdiecast5674 I had a 2006 Eddie Bauer V8. Did you ever have that issue with the spark plugs separating? I did, and I traded her in as I didn't want to deal with the fix that Ford didn't recall.
if he dosent have cards or rehearse this then this dude seems like a cool person to grab a burger with
Hello joe have a nice rainy day 😊
The 2025 Ford Explorer ST Sports Utilty Vehicle!!! The 21 Inch Wheels 🛞 Are Absolutely Awesome!!! 2025 Ford Explorer ST Is More Aggressive Than The Acura MDX & 2025 Ford Explorer ST Is More Powerful Than The Acura MDX SUV!!! 2025 Ford Explorer ST Is Better Looking Than The Acura MDX!!! Joe Has A Awesome Ride On Raiti Rides Today!!!
@CharlieAndrew-wz2dq I like how you think!
Ford hit it out of the park on this redesign. Price is extremely competitive 👍
Your video reviews are great as always! Nice mid-cycle refresh. Would have been great if Ford kept the King Ranch Explorer as an option.
Thanks for the kind words and you are so very right!
I have to admit the new interior looks fantastic
Quality and reliability are concerns. Work by the plant that makes these and the way they drive them around is also a concern.
Thanks for letting us know where you live. Nobody cares. Also hate to break it to you but the Toyotas that I’m sure you are so high on, Highlander has a lower predicted reliability score. So you can fantasize all you want but the explorer is no more or no less reliable than any other car on the road. Know what you’re talking about. Try looking at stats. Not just repeating what social media tells you.
I like the front lights of the last body more
Well good news those are still available on dealer lots as we speak.
I wish automakers could get away from the infotainment screen looking like an I-Pad glued to the dashboard.
For example, compare this with a 2025 General Motors dash layout. Much nicer screen integration.
For this kind of money, style matters.
Great review as always. I'd have to fork out the additional dollars for the 4WD version though.
I want to like the Explorer because my late grandfather worked for Ford in the golden days. But man, every mid-size SUV Raiti shows us just lacks in comparison to the Honda Pilot (2023-2025) The Pilot just on the interior wins me every time. You have the interiors of a van inside a mid-size SUV, and the Explorer is just smaller when it comes to the interior, and the Pilot also offers a V6, while the Explorer is stuck on a 4-liter.
The explorer has a v6. It also has considerable more power than the Honda. It also does not have cylinder shutoff like the Honda also does. Not sure you know what you are talking about
@tmc4988 WHAT?! HUH!?
I wish they kept the previous wheels. They looked more aggressive then the new ones do/I had a 16 Explorer Platinum and these wheels are pretty much the same.
I don't know Joe. The Accura MDX is a pretty good vehicle. I can't see the FHP cruising around in the MDX, though.
Acura doesn't make police package SUV's.
Hey Joe, thanks for this review, the ST is on my shortlist for 2025. Always when you go "on throttle" I'm so afraid someone is going to pull out in front of you. Have you ever wrecked or came VERY close to wrecking?
Nice I love ford explorer st I have 2022 😻😻😻😻
This is a decent sporty SUV. If I was serious about buying something like this. I would go with the MDX Type S.
@rickjames6867 So you'd rather spend $75,000 for an (Acura) SUV that's lesser in almost every aspect than the Explorer ST?! Makes sense to me! I own a 2023 Acura TLX Type-S alongside my 2020 Explorer ST. The TLX isn't faster or more feature packed than the Explorer, and I can pretty much make the same claim about the MDX Type-S, which is about $15,000 more expensive!
@@DalHarpJr yeah I would pick the Acura but in actual reality I wouldn't buy either because I am a car guy. I would pick Integra Type S over the Mustang Ecoboost just as well.
‘22 ST had it since 26 miles and almost at 9,000 with no issues…… I had a 16 platinum with very minor issues that started at 160,00k,so all in all pretty reliable vehicles for me Unfortunately this is not everyone’s story.
They need to have the roof all black and I would like to see the Explorer name in black letters on the front doors. I agree they need to get rid of the prop rod for the hood.
I believe that a painted black roof is now an option but quite pricey. Vinyl wrap would be the way to go.
USA.......SHARP LOOKING VEHICLE.....nice improvements. Thanks Joe.
Looks good, but is it reliable?
I like this facelift mid cycle refresh! I always thought that the original 2020 front facia was designed (in 2018) to compliment the Taurus which was still in the ford lineup at the time the 6th gen explorer was developed. Pretty interesting. The 2020 is pretty dated. But the 2025 is much better. Now that the Taurus is gone, the explorer is in a world of its own. 🇺🇸🙂
When you were test driving, out on the road and hard accelerating after the parking lot was that all 100% engine sounds? part of the audio sounded like piped in audio via the stereo like they have done in prior Ford cars. Was just wondering if you can confirm/clarify what I heard.
I love the new design they did.
Love your car video
I seriously cannot do it without you!
@@RaitisRides Welcome
Oh Joe...... caught a blooper, LOL. You said color matched mirror caps while holding the door handles. I'll let it go, LOL
The really big one he missed and apparently you too is he called the infotainment system Sync 4. The new system is Google based and is the Ford Experience.
My heart skips a beat every time I see an Explorer on the road
I wish the led taillights and headlights where smoked grey like on all previous ST model. And the top roof carbin fiber black would look great..
Joe can that fender trim be painted the same as body color if wanted. I'd prefer to paint that fender trim myself to give more cohesiveness to the body color 💯
Fender trim is textured plastic. It can be painted.
You know, I see too many Fords broken down on the side of the highway where I live. I really do.
So much so that me and my friend bet it'll be a ford when we see it.
I've known people with similar issues. While it is my opinion, I feel their engineering is poor outside of the most exotic (mustang ect)
This isn't a definitive statement, I don't know what years ect. But I just see that allot.
The interior is ok. Honestly, nothing about this one is talkin to me.
For the people that love Ford, and love these things I'm happy they got a refresh and I wish them happiness and joy in it!!
Well statistics would disagree. Let me guess you like Toyotas. Well your Highlander from a statistic standpoint point is less reliable and breaks down more. I call BS.
@@JAKtheRipper333 NO, in fact I bash toyotas constantly and question not only their interior, but also how reliable are they "Actually"
Statistics show that every brand is reliable. I don't trust any of that. I trust what I see, and what i see the most with people I've run into.
this is just my experience. I stay away from Ford.
Not for me.
I don't buy any new cars actually. I work on JDM projects. The new stuff is junk, they're not built to last.
I take old school, make it look new and rebuild low milage engines and replace engine parts with high performance.
They are bullet proof and will both the trans, and engine last 400k.
new cars are junk.
I don't trust ANY of the brands today.
If I had to get a new car, only one I'd trust the most is whichever one is known to not try and scam you out of your warranty clame if the engine goes up.
We have a 2022 Mustang GT, my 4th Mustang. We also have a 2022 Explorer Platinum with more than 30k miles already. All I have ever done is change the oil and let the cars warm up before they are driven
ZERO Issues
I think you see FORD’s broken down because you are looking for them…
Great review Joe. I was hoping for much more from Ford on this 2025 update. My overall thoughts are.....meh. Underwhelming to say the least. And the Chicago build quality issues are still a problem from what I hear from my Ford buddies. I still looks cheap on the inside in terms of a lot of plastics still in use. And what the hell, Ford....a hood prop??? Still??? I have a 2023 Ford Edge ST and was thinking that when my Lease is up, I might look at the Explorer ST. Nope, not now. . I did like your Acura MDX Type S review, however. Its much more refined, classy and quality instilled. Probably going to look really seriously at a Genesis GV-80 Coupe when its time, although if I were looking at Acura, the RDX and MDX would be candidates. And as always, welcome back to Michigan!!!! Great to have you back. Enjoy. B😮
I know how you feel! Thanks for being so supportive Brian!
It does drive real well
Massaging seats ? Great video!
No massaging seats unfortunately
There may be massaging seats in the platinum but not in the ST.
@@RaitisRidesMassaging seats (which are great) on the Platinum trim.
my wife's should arrive this weekend - after we had the 2018 Explorer Sport and the 2021 Explorer ST, I CAN'T WAIT to be done with Sync 3. What a POS!
One thing I can't get over: why can't they come up with a nice-looking cover for the tow hitch like they used to in our 2018 Explorer? Why does it need to be visible at all times, actually getting rusty and showing orange spots over time? Makes no sense to me.
Agreed also on the fenders; would be great in high-gloss paint in the color of the car!
Love the new st! Wish infinti would tune this engine and put it in the redsports
For me it's the Explorer ST all the way. I currently own the 2016 sport model and I will be upgrading to the 2025 nxt yr for sure. The only thing I'm not sure of is the exterior color. I now have a pearl white but im still on the fence with color.
Good review.
Playback Speed 1.75X is perfect
Yea the ST would dust the MDX lol …. I need it 😍
Only when it's not broken down.
I can agree with that!
@@zarbon700 Haters gonna keep hating!
@@DalHarpJr Ignorance is bliss. You clearly aren't aware of all the unreliability complaints from Explorer owners.
@@zarbon700 I've read the comments just like you did! Do you think FORD is the only auto manufacturer with issues?! I have ZERO issues on my Explorer ST. So I'm supposed to feel bad that I didn't get a bad one? Didn't BMW just recall 291,000 vehicles?! Yes, ignorance is bliss buddy!
My 2022 ST has been a lemon: always some issues beginning with the first day I brought it home. Both turbos had to be replaced.
Not Sync 4. The software is FDE, Ford Digital Experience. The 2025 Explorer is the first vehicle to have this system. FYI.
Don't like this new styling at all, prefer previous, that said I'd no WAY in hell would buy one after witnessing the massive amount of problems between the 2018's and single 2020 explorer campus security patrol vehicle fleet we have. Massive problems, shift system issues, broken power seat (up and down function) busted power mirror buttons, literally broken window button on drivers side, coolant leaked, torque converter and or engine mount got broken on one, all of these vehicles have less than 60k miles on them, it's insane.
Would never buy one, I'd maybe take one if you gave it away to me without issues, otherwise F no.
And this is someone that truly loves how they look and drive.
Stay away from these.
Edit - HELL I even forgot to mention infotainment issues and lag/freezing, it's bananas.
Cop models of the explorer are the only ones that dont have roof rails. Easiest way to tell if its an undercover cop.
You can order the ST without roof rails too.
These vehicles look and drive great. I almost bought one until I read about the lawsuits and the recalls.
I mean besides my hate of suv's this is looking great
I’m glad that you think it looks good!
I noticed in another video on the Quad Tips that instead of the exhaust coming out straight, the end is fake, and it fires downward before it gets to the end of the tips. What kind of engineer would think of doing this and making it fake? Also is this a true 4-wheel drive like most or does it have a mechanical clutch at the end that puts it in 4-wheel drive or is this all-wheel drive. Does it even have a full frame? I mean, they never really tell you about these features. You never see under the body. I would love to see the engine before they even put it inside the vehicle. You look at the V6 and you almost don't even recognized this as an engine. I am thinking about buying an ST 2025 but would like to know just a little more of this vehicle. The start and stop engine feature that no one wants yet, I'm sure there is a button to override it. So I enjoy your videos. But could we see just a little more of things we can't see.
Hey Joe, do you think we might see a Coyote 5.0 go into some kind of limited edition Explorer?
I think that would be wishful thinking!
@@RaitisRides You're probably right. That 400 horsepower 3.0 liter is more than adequate anyway