What Makes the 2025 Ford Explorer Active Special
At Sarasota Ford, we help customers discover what sets the 2025 Ford Explorer Active apart from other SUVs. This vehicle combines the best of both worlds – the comfort of a family SUV with the capability of an adventure-ready vehicle.
The Explorer Active trim level sits perfectly between the base model and the high-performance ST variant. It offers enhanced ground clearance, rugged styling, and advanced all-wheel drive technology that makes it ideal for Florida’s varied terrain.
Enhanced Ground Clearance
8.7 inches of ground clearance for better off-road capability and obstacle navigation
Intelligent AWD
Advanced all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts power distribution for optimal traction
Terrain Management System
Multiple drive modes including Sand, Slippery, and Trail for different driving conditions
The 2025 Ford Explorer features a bold exterior design with unique Active styling elements. These include distinctive front and rear skid plates, side cladding, and special 20-inch wheels that give it a more adventurous appearance.
Inside, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active interior features premium materials and thoughtful design. The cabin offers seating for up to seven passengers with flexible configurations. The second-row captain’s chairs in higher trims provide easy access to the third row, making it perfect for families.
Ford Co-Pilot360 technology comes standard, providing a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features. This technology helps make every drive safer and more confident, whether you’re commuting in Sarasota or taking a family road trip across Florida.

The 2025 Ford Explorer Active showcasing its premium interior design and advanced technology features
2025 Ford Explorer Active Performance and Engine Specifications
The heart of the 2025 Ford Explorer Active is its impressive 2.3L EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant delivers excellent performance while maintaining good fuel efficiency for daily driving.
We’ve seen how this engine performs in real-world conditions here in Florida. The EcoBoost technology provides strong acceleration when you need it, whether merging onto I-75 or climbing highway overpasses with a full load of passengers and cargo.
Engine Performance Details
The 2.3L EcoBoost engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This power is delivered through a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission that optimizes gear selection for both performance and fuel economy.
The 2025 Ford Explorer Active fuel efficiency ratings are competitive in the three-row SUV segment. The EPA estimates show approximately 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it practical for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.
| Performance Metric | Specification | Benefit |
|---|
| Horsepower | 300 hp | Strong acceleration and highway performance |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | Excellent low-end power for towing and hauling |
| Towing Capacity | 5,600 lbs | Can handle boats, trailers, and recreational equipment |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 24 mpg | Efficient for daily driving and long trips |
All-Wheel Drive System
The 2025 Ford Explorer Active comes standard with Ford’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. This advanced system continuously monitors road conditions and automatically sends power where it’s needed most.
The system includes multiple terrain management modes that adjust the vehicle’s behavior for different driving conditions. Whether you’re driving on wet Florida roads during summer storms or exploring sandy beach access roads, the Explorer Active adapts to provide optimal traction and control.
Towing Capability
The 2025 Ford Explorer Active towing capacity reaches up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it capable of towing most boats, travel trailers, and recreational equipment that Florida families enjoy.
Ford includes helpful towing features like Trailer Sway Control and a Tow/Haul mode that adjusts transmission shift points for better control when pulling heavy loads. These features make towing safer and more confident for drivers of all experience levels.
Interior Features and Technology Options
The 2025 Ford Explorer Active interior features showcase Ford’s attention to comfort and convenience. We help our Sarasota customers understand how these features enhance their daily driving experience and long-distance travel comfort.
The cabin design focuses on both functionality and style. High-quality materials throughout the interior create a premium feel, while thoughtful storage solutions help keep the cabin organized for busy families.
Seating and Comfort
The Explorer Active offers flexible seating arrangements to accommodate different passenger and cargo needs. The standard configuration includes second-row bench seating for eight passengers, while available captain’s chairs reduce capacity to seven but provide easier third-row access.
Front seats feature power adjustment with available heating and cooling functions. The driver’s seat includes memory settings, making it easy for multiple drivers to find their preferred position quickly.
Third-row seating is designed for real-world use, not just emergency situations. Adults can sit comfortably in the back row for shorter trips, while children have plenty of space for longer journeys.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2025 Ford Explorer Active technology options center around the SYNC 4A infotainment system. This advanced system features a large touchscreen display that’s easy to use while driving.
SYNC 4A System
12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Premium Audio
Available Bang & Olufsen sound system with 12 speakers for concert-quality audio
Connectivity
FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices
The system includes voice recognition that understands natural speech patterns. You can control navigation, music, and climate settings without taking your hands off the wheel or eyes off the road.
Available features include a panoramic sunroof that makes the cabin feel more spacious and airy. Tri-zone automatic climate control ensures all passengers stay comfortable regardless of seating position.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Ford Explorer Active, and we’re proud to share the comprehensive 2025 Ford Explorer Active safety ratings with our customers. Ford has equipped this SUV with advanced safety technologies that help protect you and your family.
The Ford Co-Pilot360 technology suite comes standard on every Explorer Active. This comprehensive package includes multiple safety systems that work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants when they occur.
Standard Safety Features
Every 2025 Ford Explorer Active includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. This system can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn’t respond in time.
Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert helps you change lanes safely and back out of parking spaces with confidence. The system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alert you with visual and audible warnings.
| Safety Feature | Function | Benefit |
|---|
| Pre-Collision Assist | Automatic emergency braking | Helps prevent or reduce collision severity |
| Lane Keeping System | Steering assistance to stay in lane | Reduces driver fatigue on long trips |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Maintains safe following distance | Makes highway driving less stressful |
| 360-Degree Camera | Surround view for parking | Makes parking in tight spaces easier |
Advanced Driver Assistance
The Explorer Active includes lane centering assist that helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane during highway driving. This feature works with adaptive cruise control to reduce driver fatigue on long trips.
Available features include a 360-degree camera system that provides a bird’s-eye view around the vehicle. This makes parking in tight spaces much easier and helps you avoid obstacles when maneuvering in crowded areas.
The vehicle also includes post-collision braking that automatically applies the brakes after an initial impact to help prevent secondary collisions. This feature can be crucial in multi-vehicle accidents.

The 2025 Ford Explorer Active displaying its rugged exterior design and adventure-ready styling
How the Explorer Active Compares to Competitors
When we help customers with 2025 Ford Explorer Active comparison with competitors, we focus on the unique advantages that set this SUV apart. The Explorer Active offers a compelling combination of capability, comfort, and value in the competitive three-row SUV market.
The Explorer Active’s ground clearance and all-wheel drive system give it advantages over many competitors in off-road capability. While maintaining the comfort and refinement expected in a family SUV, it offers more adventure capability than most rivals.
Competitive Advantages
The 2.3L EcoBoost engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Many competitors either offer less power or significantly worse fuel economy, making the Explorer Active a smart choice for practical buyers.
| Vehicle | Horsepower | Towing Capacity | Ground Clearance | Starting MSRP |
|---|
| 2025 Ford Explorer Active | 300 hp | 5,600 lbs | 8.7 inches | $40,000 (est.) |
| Honda Pilot TrailSport | 280 hp | 5,000 lbs | 8.2 inches | $42,000 (est.) |
| Toyota Highlander | 295 hp | 5,000 lbs | 8.0 inches | $38,000 (est.) |
| Chevrolet Traverse | 310 hp | 5,000 lbs | 7.9 inches | $39,000 (est.) |
The Explorer Active’s technology package is more comprehensive than many competitors at similar price points. The SYNC 4A system with its large touchscreen and wireless connectivity features provides a more modern experience than older infotainment systems found in some rival SUVs.
Value Proposition
Ford’s approach with the Explorer Active creates excellent value for buyers who want capability without paying premium prices. The vehicle offers many features that are optional or unavailable on competitors, making it an attractive choice for practical buyers.
The standard all-wheel drive system is a significant advantage over competitors that charge extra for this feature. In Florida, where sudden weather changes are common, having all-wheel drive standard provides peace of mind and better resale value.
Experience the 2025 Ford Explorer Active at Sarasota Ford
We invite you to visit Sarasota Ford and discover why the 2025 Ford Explorer Active is the perfect SUV for Florida families. Our knowledgeable team understands the unique needs of drivers in our area, from daily commuting to weekend adventures.
At our Sarasota dealership, you can explore all the 2025 Ford Explorer Active trim levels and see how the features we’ve discussed work in real life. We’ll help you understand which options best fit your lifestyle and budget.
Our service team is ready to help you maintain your Explorer Active for years of reliable performance. We use genuine Ford parts and have factory-trained technicians who understand your vehicle inside and out.
Contact us today at 888-349-4989 to schedule a test drive or learn more about current incentives and financing options. We’re here to help you find the perfect 2025 Ford Explorer Active for your family’s needs.