2025 Ford Explorer Active vs ST-Line
Which midsize SUV is right for your family adventures — the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or ST-Line? Our comparison guide is here to help you select the perfect trim model!
Key Takeaways
- If you’re looking for sporty style, you’ll love the ST-Line. But if you prefer the best deal, stick with the entry-level Active trim!
- These Explorer trims are surprisingly quick, courtesy of their 300-horsepower EcoBoost powertrain.
- Where the Active delivers all the comforts and conveniences an energetic family could want, the ST-Line adds unique styling and tech features.
- Shop for the family-friendly Explorer Active, starting at $40,050*, or opt for the Explorer ST-Line, from $45,020*.
What’s better, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or ST-Line?
If “better” means the Explorer that comes standard with more features, you’re probably going to gravitate toward the ST-Line. On the other hand, if you think paying a lower price is “better,” then you’re going to love the handsomely equipped Active! No matter what you’re after in a family-friendly SUV, though, both trim models have a lot to offer!
What are the 2025 Ford Explorer Active and ST-Line engine options?
In other words, how does performance compare between the Active and ST-Line Explorer? When it comes to action, these trim models have everything in common. Both come standard with the sporty base engine, with 300 horses to get you up to speed in a snap. And both models are available with all-wheel drive to help you navigate the rainy season with maximum traction. This performance gear is also a good choice for adventurous families — especially if you’re looking to explore off-road terrain!
2025 Ford Explorer Powertrain Specs
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
Which is more handsomely equipped, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or ST-Line?
The ST-Line sits a little higher on the Explorer trim ladder, making it the most handsomely equipped option. This SUV adds to the base Active features with special styling, premium audio, BlueCruise hands-free driving technology, and more!
Then again, the Active is so loaded with comfort and tech features that you might find yourself gravitating toward the entry-level model and its budget-friendly MSRP! This new Explorer trim model treats you to Ford’s latest infotainment system, high-tech safety aids, and three-zone automatic climate control!
Active Highlights
The all-new base Explorer is very handsomely equipped!
- 18-inch Sparkle Silver aluminum wheels
- Cloth upholstery
- Heated, power-adjustable front-row seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- 12.3-inch instrument panel cluster
- Second-row captain’s seats
- Third-row 50/50 split-folding bench seat
- Ford Digital Experience infotainment with 13.2-inch touchscreen and Google-based software
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- LED headlamps
- Power liftgate
- Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ suite of safety aids (including adaptive cruise control with Stop-and-Go and Lane-Centering)
- Class III Trailer Tow Package
- Optional ActiveX seating material
- Optional Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade
- Optional LED fog lights
ST-Line Highlights
The ST-Line adds to the above features with sporty styling, enhanced safety aids, and tech upgrades!
- 20-inch Ebony aluminum wheels
- Unique cloth seating with Red accent stitching
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with Red accent stitching
- Ebony door panels with Red accent stitching
- 10-speaker B&O sound system, including subwoofer
- BlueCruise (90-day trial)
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 (includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assist)
Which has the lowest MSRP, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active or ST-Line?
The new entry-level 2025 Explorer Active starts at $40,050* — a great price for such an accommodating SUV! The sportier Explorer ST-Line, on the other hand, only costs slightly more, with an MSRP of $45,020*. In any case, you can take these family-friendly SUVs for a spin right here at Banner Ford! Call or text us to set up a test-drive.
*MSRP as of 12/10/25. Subject to change.
