2025 Ford Explorer vs. the Competition

The Ford Explorer wasn’t the first SUV in the world, but it certainly popularized the vehicle type as a mainstream option. Excellent versatility and car-like handling made the Explorer a hit from the beginning, and it continues this tradition today. But one consequence of popularizing the midsize SUV so much is that the Explorer now has quite a few competitors. How do these competitors measure up? Let’s take a look at this informative midsize SUV comparison guide assembled by our team at Sarchione Ford of Randolph.

First up to challenge the Ford Explorer, we have the Nissan Murano. Which, like the Explorer, was a big hit when it first debuted. But years have gone by, and the Murano hasn’t exactly evolved to keep pace. For example, the Murano is still absolutely no match for the power and efficiency of the Explorer. The Explorer has the edge in terms of capability, boasting greater horsepower, torque, towing capacity, and fuel economy than the Murano. If you want more power, Ford offers a twin-turbo V6 that pushes horsepower to 400, while there is no optional engine for the Murano.

Both SUVs have the option of all-wheel drive, but if you don’t opt for it, the Explorer comes with rear-wheel drive that provides a more balanced and engaging driving experience than the front-wheel drive Murano. Similarly, the 10-speed automatic in the Explorer is going to feel more engaging as well. You can carry more inside the Explorer as well, be it people or cargo, as the Explorer is notably more spacious. In addition to more space, your passengers will also appreciate premium amenities like a larger touchscreen display, reclining second-row seats, and even a mobile 5G Wi-Fi hotspot.

Next up we have the Volkswagen Atlas, a newer nameplate and VW’s SUV flagship. It’s bigger and more modern than the Murano, but it shares a number of the same drawbacks including less horsepower, a FWD drivetrain, and a less engaging transmission. Although there used to be a V6 option, there isn’t anymore. Of course, that option was still less powerful than the engine in the Explorer, but it was a bit closer than the only option that’s left. The Atlas can have the same towing capacity as the Explorer, but not this price point. That requires you to option up to the next trim up, which adds more than $4,000 to the price. 

The Atlas has just over an inch more third-row legroom than the Explorer. But Ford decided to prioritize the rows that people are much more likely to actually use, the first and second. Both of these rows offer a bigger legroom advantage than the third-row advantage in the Atlas as well. The Ford Explorer boasts a much larger digital gauge cluster for easier access to key drive information. A power liftgate is something a lot of SUV buyers look for, which is why Ford made it standard equipment. VW has yet to catch on to this strategy. Last but not least, Volkswagen cannot match the superior powertrain warranty coverage provided by Ford. 

Last up to challenge the Ford Explorer, we have the Dodge Durango. Since, as we’ve seen, there aren’t too many mainstream midsize SUVs that make a performance version to compete with the Explorer ST.  Since there is one for the Durango, that’s what we’re focusing on. Right from the start, we can see that the Explorer ST still has quite a noticeable power advantage. Add to that the more advanced 10-speed transmission and the fact that the Explorer is more than 500 pounds lighter, and it’s clear that you’ll receive a more performance-oriented experience with the Explorer. Even though fuel economy might not be the first priority when people shop for a performance vehicle, the difference here is quite dramatic. It accomplishes this feat even though the Explorer offers better performance and interior dimensions that are nearly identical. 

While the difference in performance is probably more than enough to justify the slight price difference between these two vehicles, there is a difference when it comes to equipment as well. The Explorer has a larger infotainment touchscreen, larger wheels, and comes with LED foglights. Seating is definitely another win for the Explorer, with the ST coming with unique sport seats. These are something reserved for the near-six-figure limited editions of the Durango. The Explorer ST also comes with heated 2nd-row seats as standard equipment. A symptom of the aging platform underpinning the Dodge Durango is that this isn’t even an option.

*Current Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for base vehicle. Excludes destination/delivery fee plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Optional equipment not included. Starting A, Z and X Plan price is for qualified, eligible customers and excludes document fee, destination/delivery charge, taxes, title and registration. Not all vehicles qualify for A, Z or X Plan.

**EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage will vary based on a variety of factors.