The New 2025 Ford Explorer Models for Canadian Drivers

The Ford Explorer arrives in Canada with a refreshed design, featuring a revised grille unique to each trim level and a more chiselled body line that gives it a sportier appearance. The interior has received a complete makeover, offering Canadian drivers improved comfort and technology. The latest lineup consists of four distinct trim levels: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST, each catering to different driving preferences and lifestyle needs.

2025 Ford Explorer Active: Entry-Level Excellence for Canadian Roads

As the base model in the lineup, the Active trim offers Canadian drivers impressive value without sacrificing capability. Powered by a robust 2.3-litre EcoBoost inline-four-cylinder engine generating 300 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque, this trim delivers ample power for Canadian driving conditions. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google integration, tri-zone automatic climate control, rear-view camera, and unique cloth seating. The Active trim comes equipped with rear-wheel drive and six selectable drive modes to handle various Canadian terrains and weather conditions.

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Sporty Styling with Enhanced Technology

Building on the Active trim’s foundation, the ST-Line adds sporty design elements that appeal to Canadian drivers seeking a more dynamic appearance. This trim maintains the same 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine but upgrades to 20-inch wheels for improved handling. Canadian drivers will appreciate the added technology features, including a 360-degree camera with split view, a heated steering wheel with distinctive red stitching, and a premium 10-speaker B&O sound system. The ST-Line also features heated first- and second-row seats—a welcome addition for Canadian winters—along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities for seamless connectivity.

2025 Ford Explorer Platinum: Premium Luxury for Canadian Families

The Platinum trim represents the luxury option in the lineup for Canadian consumers. This model elevates comfort with a panoramic Vista roof with power shade, ambient interior lighting, and multi-contour front seats with Active Motion technology. The interior has leather seating surfaces featuring Miko micro-perforated inserts. Canadian families will appreciate the heated and ventilated front-row seats, heated second-row seats, and a convenient power-folding third row. The Platinum can have the standard 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine or an optional twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 Nm of torque.

2025 Ford Explorer ST: Performance-Focused SUV for Canadian Enthusiasts

At the top of the Explorer lineup sits the ST trim, designed for Canadian driving enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on performance. This model comes standard with the twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 Nm of torque. The ST features sport-tuned suspension, providing responsive handling on Canadian highways and byways. This performance-oriented model features many of the luxury appointments found in the Platinum trim, while also incorporating ST-specific styling elements and performance enhancements.

Safety and Technology Features Across 2025 Ford Explorer Canadian Models

All models sold in Canada come equipped with the Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ suite of driver-assistance technologies. This comprehensive safety package provides Canadian drivers with peace of mind through features such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping System, and Blind Spot Information System. Higher trims add additional safety features such as a 360-degree camera and Ford BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving on the Platinum model.

Passenger and Cargo Capacity in the 2025 Ford Explorer for Canadian Families

The Explorer offers flexible seating configurations for Canadian families. Depending on the trim and configuration, it can accommodate either six or seven passengers. With the third-row seats folded down, this family SUV provides ample cargo space for family gear, groceries, or luggage. When you use the third row, cargo space shrinks to about two small suitcases, so larger Canadian families planning long road trips benefit from adding a roof-mounted cargo box.

5 Facts About the Ford Explorer

• Canadian Heritage: The Ford Explorer has been a popular choice among Canadian drivers since its introduction in 1990, weathering harsh Canadian winters and proving its durability on diverse Canadian terrains.

• Evolution from Truck to Crossover: The Explorer started as a truck-based SUV but evolved into a more refined crossover in its fifth generation (2011), enhancing comfort and handling for Canadian drivers while maintaining its capability.

• Canadian-Friendly Design: The refreshed design features a forward-facing nose and chiselled body lines that aren’t just for aesthetics—they help improve aerodynamics for better fuel efficiency on long Canadian highway drives.

• Terrain Management System: The Explorer Terrain Management System was designed with various driving conditions in mind, including those commonly encountered in Canada, ranging from snow-covered roads to rocky trails.

• Sport Mode Transformation: When placed in Sport drive mode, the Explorer—even in family-friendly trims—transforms its driving dynamics significantly, providing what one Canadian reviewer described as driving “like an overweight sports car.”

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Ford Explorer Canadian Models

Which Ford Explorer trim levels are available in Canada?

• This SUV is available in four trim levels in Canada: Active (base model), ST-Line, Platinum, and ST.

What engine options are available for the Ford Explorer in Canada?

• Canadian models offer a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (300 hp) as standard on Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims. The Platinum can optionally be equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 (400 hp), which comes standard on the ST trim.

How many passengers can the Ford Explorer accommodate?

• Depending on the configuration, it can seat either six (with second-row captain’s chairs) or seven passengers (with a second-row bench seat).

Which Explorer trim is best suited for Canadian winters?

• All trims handle light snow and moderate weather conditions well, thanks to the standard Terrain Management System. For optimal winter performance, any trim can be equipped with all-weather tires.

What is the towing capacity of the Ford Explorer in Canada?

• When properly equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package (standard on all models), all trims can tow up to 2,268 kg.

Does the Explorer come with all-wheel drive in Canada?

• While the base Active trim comes with rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive is available across all trim levels for improved traction on Canadian roads.

Which Explorer trim offers the most luxury features for Canadian drivers?

• The Platinum trim offers the most luxury features, including leather seating, panoramic roof, ambient lighting, and multi-contour seats with Active Motion.

What safety features come standard on the Explorer in Canada?

• All Canadian models come standard with Ford CoPilot360 Assist+, which includes Pre-Collision Assist, Lane-Keeping System, and Blind Spot Information System.

Is the Explorer fuel-efficient for driving in Canadian conditions?

• The 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine strikes a good balance between power and efficiency, making it well-suited for Canadian driving conditions in both urban and highway environments.

Which Explorer trim is best for Canadian families?

• The Platinum trim is often considered best for families due to its combination of comfort features, including heated first and second-row seats and a power-folding third row.