The Ford Explorer has long been a familiar presence in the midsize SUV market, commonly seen on suburban streets, highways, and family vacations. Yet familiarity doesn’t always mean admiration. Over the years, the Explorer often found itself caught between rugged off-road ambition and upscale refinement, never quite mastering either. That’s beginning to change. The latest Ford Explorer Platinum AWD doesn’t just correct past missteps—it feels like a total reinvention. Quietly confident, this new model makes you take a second look at that Ford badge on the grille.
The first time I got behind the wheel of the 2025 Explorer Platinum AWD, I had just returned from a road trip in a luxury crossover. I expected a noticeable downgrade. After all, previous Explorers were often criticized for their plasticky interiors and lack of sophistication. But this time, I was greeted by quilted leather seats that felt like a warm winter coat, a freshly redesigned interior exuding modern elegance, and a driving experience that made me forget I wasn’t in a European brand.
What struck me first was the silence—not an eerie stillness, but the refined quiet you only find in high-end vehicles. As I eased out of my peaceful neighborhood, my 8-year-old in the backseat asked, “Is this the same car we had last year?” That spoke volumes. The old Explorer had presence, yes, but lacked a sense of luxury. The Platinum edition not only upgrades materials and finish, it builds a whole new identity.
The powertrain is no longer underwhelming. The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 doesn’t roar for attention—it doesn’t need to. With 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, it moves like a disciplined sprinter, ready at a moment’s notice. The all-wheel-drive system provides steadfast traction in all kinds of weather. I experienced it firsthand during an unexpected April snowstorm in the Colorado foothills. Not once did I feel that slippery, uncertain skid. What I felt was control, command, and confidence.
Inside, the Explorer finally feels worth its price tag, especially in a market where full-size SUVs easily cross the sixty-thousand-dollar line. The digital instrument cluster and large touchscreen are sharp and intuitive, the Bang & Olufsen sound system makes long-drive playlists sing, and the panoramic sunroof gives the cabin an open, airy feel, even in bumper-to-bumper traffic. On a family weekend trip to Lake Tahoe, every passenger had enough space to stretch out, charge their devices, and nap in comfort. These real-life moments matter far more than any spec sheet—they’re where the SUV truly proves its worth. Comfort isn’t just about seat design, it’s about delivering peace of mind across seven-hour journeys with kids.
What’s impressive is how effortlessly the Platinum handles itself. It doesn’t try to be overly sporty. There are no loud exhaust notes or rigid racing seats here. Instead, it focuses on what real people need—reliability with refinement. That balance makes it stand out in a market full of flashy tech and gimmicks.
One evening, my neighbor—a long-time Acura MDX owner—sat in the Explorer for the first time. His eyebrows went up. He asked about the tech, the leather, and whether the third row was actually functional or just there for show. After fiddling with the seat controls and checking the legroom himself, he was pleasantly surprised. That kind of reaction is rare today, where many new cars feel like minor updates of the previous model. The Platinum doesn’t just refresh—it evolves.
Despite all the luxury, practicality hasn’t been sacrificed. I’m the kind of person who often fills the rear cargo area with Costco hauls, soccer gear, and the occasional flat-pack furniture box. The cargo space is flexible, the power-folding seats easy to manage, and the hands-free liftgate is a quiet lifesaver when your arms are full of groceries and toddlers. To me, real luxury isn’t just in the leather—it’s in the thoughtful design that works with your life.
Fuel economy also holds its own. I averaged just under 24 miles per gallon over a week of mixed driving. While not a hybrid, it doesn’t drink fuel like a thirsty beast either. In an era of fluctuating gas prices and increasing environmental awareness, having an efficient engine in a powerful SUV feels like a double win.
Technology is another strong point. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are smooth and never intrusive. You feel supported—not nagged. During a late-night interstate drive, the automatic high beams worked exactly as needed, and the navigation system rerouted me seamlessly when road closures popped up. These little things make a big difference over time, especially on long trips.
Of course, it’s not flawless. The rotary gear shifter isn’t for everyone, and while the ride is smooth, some might wish for sharper cornering. But these are nitpicks in an otherwise well-rounded package.
After a week with the Explorer Platinum AWD, I was genuinely reluctant to return the keys. It didn’t dazzle like a sports car, but it earned my trust. From morning school drop-offs to spontaneous mountain detours, from traffic-clogged city streets to open highways, it never missed a beat.
In a world dominated by marketing hype, it’s rare to find a vehicle that speaks through performance rather than noise. The Explorer Platinum AWD doesn’t scream for attention—it earns it. It’s for those who value substance over flash, comfort over gimmicks, and reliability over trends.
Sometimes, the most surprising changes are the quiet ones. The Ford Explorer Platinum AWD doesn’t clamor for the spotlight—but it deserves it. And if you're like me, juggling work, family, and the occasional road trip, it just might be the most improved vehicle you never expected.