When the 2025 Ford Explorer Electric caught my eye. I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting much—a new electric crossover in a sea of options sounded routine. But this one’s got a story. Built on a VW platform yet dressed in Ford’s unique style, it’s aiming to win over families looking for something practical yet distinct. I’ve always enjoyed spotting cars that blend heritage with innovation, and this Explorer, rolling out of Ford’s Cologne plant, feels like a fresh chapter. Let’s dig into what makes it tick.
What’s the Deal with This Electric Explorer?
At its core, the 2025 Ford Explorer Electric is a mid-size electric crossover that borrows some bones from the Volkswagen ID.4 but wraps them in a rugged, boxy shell that screams adventure—think of it as Ford nodding to its American SUV roots, even if this version’s tailored for European roads. The market’s crowded with rivals like the Tesla Model X, Skoda Enyaq, and Kia EV6, all vying for the same family-car crown. Ford’s play? A design that stands out from the sleek, rounded shapes of its competitors, offering a tougher, more outdoorsy vibe.
Ford’s team insists it’s not just a rebadged ID.4—there’s custom suspension tuning and input into VW’s latest motors and batteries, giving it a Ford soul. I like that they’re not just slapping a logo on someone else’s work; it’s a collaboration with Ford’s fingerprint. And with production in Germany, it’s clear they’re serious about making this a global contender.
Style That Turns Heads
The styling’s where this car starts to shine. Unlike the smooth, coupe-like lines of many rivals, the Explorer goes for a blocky, adventurous look—echoing the chunky petrol Explorers of old but shrunk to fit modern streets. Ford’s design boss, Amko Leenarts, says it’s not about aggression but confidence, which I get—it feels sturdy without being in-your-face. They’ve also tweaked the aerodynamics to keep drag low, ensuring the range doesn’t take a hit, and the wind noise is hushed enough for long drives. It doesn’t mimic other Fords either; each model now gets its own identity, a smart move to avoid blending into the lineup.
Inside: Space and Smart Touches
Step inside, and you’re greeted with a roomy cabin that holds its own. The dash sports a cloth-covered soundbar and light grey accents, adding a nice texture that breaks the monotony. The star, though, is the sliding center screen—you can push it forward for a low, angled view or pull it up for easier access to the top controls. I tried the upright setting and loved how it cut down on glare. Between the seats, there’s a massive console box, big enough for a laptop bag, which is a godsend for organizing family gear.
It’s practical without feeling bland, and that’s a win for anyone juggling kids or cargo.
Does It Drive Like a Ford?
Here’s where it gets interesting. Ford’s dialed in the suspension to feel firm yet forgiving, and the steering’s spot-on, letting you glide through twisty roads with confidence. At 2.1 tonnes, it’s no lightweight, but it handles like something leaner—impressive for its size. Performance-wise, the base rear-wheel-drive model hits 0-62 mph in 8.7 seconds, the mid-spec RWD drops to 6.4 seconds, and the all-wheel-drive version zips there in 5.3 seconds. No fake engine noises here like the Mustang Mach-E—just quiet, refined power that suits its family focus.
Power and Range: A Solid Package
Battery options give you flexibility. The entry-level single-motor setup pairs with a 52kWh battery for a 233-mile WLTP range—decent for city hops. Step up to the 77kWh version, and you’re looking at 374 miles WLTP, which could mean 275 miles on UK motorways or 325 in mixed driving—pretty solid! The dual-motor model gets a 79kWh pack with newer chemistry, shaving charging time to 26 minutes for 10-80% versus 28 minutes for the RWD. That’s a nice edge, especially with VW’s recent tech boost in the Born VZ.
My Take: A Likeable Family Ride
The 2025 Ford Explorer Electric faces stiff competition, but it carves its niche. Why do so many brands push these mid-size electric crossovers? Simple—families love them. This one delivers: a striking look inside and out, plenty of space, and an easy drive that won’t tire you out. It’s not a car to fall head over heels for if you’re a driving purist, but it’s got a warm, approachable charm that rivals like the Renault Scenic or BMW iX1 can’t quite match.
Ford’s shifting gears, aiming upmarket with bigger profit margins instead of cheap petrol hatchbacks. This move, delayed nine months by software tweaks, might mean some have already picked a rival, but the Explorer’s ready to prove itself. For families seeking a practical, electric option with a bit of character, it’s a solid bet.
Could the Explorer win you over for your next family car? Drop a comment below!
Source- topgear.com
