Ultimately, choosing between the 2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line and ST comes down to whether you’re after a strong performance and sporty styling or an extra-strong performance and even sportier styling! Let’s dive into the particulars of these midsize SUVs.
Key Takeaways
- Where the Explorer ST-Line features sporty styling, the Explorer ST also delivers the performance gear to match.
- While both trim models are handsomely equipped, the Explorer ST builds on the ST-Line features with comfort and tech upgrades.
- The Explorer ST-Line gets going with an impressive 300 horsepower, but the Explorer ST is even faster, boosting output to 400 horses!
- Shop for the 2025 Explorer ST-Line from $45,020*, or check out the high-performance Explorer ST, starting at $54,770*.
2025 Ford Explorer ST vs. ST-Line: What’s the difference?
In other words, what makes each 2025 Explorer trim appealing overall? In the Explorer trim model lineup, the ST-Line builds on the base Active features with sporty styling (including Black exterior trim and flashy Red interior accent stitching) and tech upgrades (with a 10-speaker B&O sound system and BlueCruise hands-free driving). The Explorer ST is the next level up, adding to the ST-Line features with exclusive performance upgrades (like its 400-horsepower turbocharged V6) and extra luxury features (check out its heated and ventilated front seats)!
Which is more luxurious, the 2025 Ford Explorer ST or ST-Line?
As we mentioned above, the Explorer ST is higher in the trim lineup, making it the best choice for Colorado drivers shopping for maximum luxury. Of course, the Explorer ST-Line also has plenty to offer, from its cutting-edge infotainment system to its comfort-inducing tri-zone automatic climate control system. Scroll down for highlights from each of these Explorer trim models!
Explorer ST-Line Highlights
- 20-inch Ebony wheels
- Unique cloth seating with Red accent stitching
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with Red accent stitching
- Ebony door panels with Red accent stitching
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Ford Digital Experience with 13.2-inch central touchscreen
- Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 10-speaker B&O sound system, including subwoofer
- BlueCruise (90-day trial)
- LED headlamps
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 (includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and lane-keeping assist)
Explorer ST Highlights
- 21-inch Magnetite wheels
- Miko upholstery with Red accent stitching
- Heated and ventilated front sport seats
- Driver’s seat memory
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Heated, sport-style steering wheel
- Heated second-row captain’s chairs
- PowerFold third-row bench (folds flat)
- Wireless charging pad
- 110V/150W AC power outlet
- Ambient interior lighting
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
How powerful are the 2025 Ford Explorer ST and ST-Line?
While both three-row SUVs pack major muscle, the high-performance Explorer ST (with 400 horsepower) packs a bigger punch than the Explorer ST-Line (generating up to 300 horses). Compared to other Explorer trim models, the extra-quick ST also features an exclusive sport-tuned suspension, making it feel sharper around tight turns.
With standard rear-wheel drive, every Explorer treats you to an especially balanced ride. And if you’re looking for an SUV that can handle your rugged Colorado adventures, you’ll be pleased to note that both trim models are available with traction-boosting all-wheel drive.
2025 Explorer ST-Line Performance Specs
- 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 311 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
2025 Explorer ST Performance Specs
- 3.0L turbocharged V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
- Sport-tuned suspension
Which costs more, the 2025 Ford Explorer ST or ST-Line?
If you’ve come this far, you’ll probably guess (correctly) that the Explorer ST (from $54,770*) is the more expensive option. After all, it’s packed with more luxury features — not to mention its exclusive performance gear. Meanwhile, if you’re shopping for the best deal on a stylish family hauler, you can nab the 2025 Explorer ST-Line starting at $45,020*. That’s a great price for such a handsomely equipped three-row SUV!
*MSRP as of 11/19/25.
Make Your Choice
Got an inkling as to which trim model suits you best? Visit us at Brighton Ford to give it a test-drive! Whether you’re shopping for a great price on a powerful, stylish family SUV or the sportiest possible version of the 2025 Ford Explorer, we’re always happy to make introductions.