The Ford lineup has something for just about everyone; whether you're looking for a powerful sports car like the Mustang or a hard-working pickup like the F-150, Ford has you covered. This includes, of course, a gorgeous selection of SUVs designed to meet a wide range of needs, including the three-row Explorer, which is perfect for growing families. When you visit us looking for a Ford Explorer for sale near Jackson, however, you'll quickly discover that you have four remarkable trim levels to choose from. What's nice is that you can't go wrong with any of them since every Explorer is a joy to drive and packed with great features inside and out. But choosing the right one is still important because you want to make sure you don't miss out on something you are looking for. So, let's take a look at all four of these Explorer trims and figure out which one is perfect for you.
2025 Ford Explorer Active – Starting Trim and Features
The Active trim is the standard Ford Explorer model, and it establishes the foundation that these other models build upon. The Explorer Active comes with the standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine that provides 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This is plenty of power for a three-row SUV like this, though if you want a massive boost to performance, then check out the ST trim (more on that in a bit). Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard on the Active model, with Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) available if you're looking for enhanced traction and handling. The Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs, which is great for hauling a camper behind you, and 18-inch wheels are standard.
Inside the Explorer Active model, you get three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, which is perfect if you have a growing family or big friend group who want to come along with you. Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control is standard to help keep everyone comfortable, and you get 4-Door Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start that makes it easy to get in and get going. The 2025 Explorer features the new Ford Digital Experience, including a gorgeous 13.2-inch infotainment display, which is standard even in the starting Active trim. You also get a 12.3-inch Productivity Display in the instrument panel and a six-speaker sound system. A 10-way power driver's seat and a four-way power front-passenger seat are both standard with comfortable cloth seating.
2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line – Sporty Styling and Enhancements
If you like a lot of what the standard Active model delivers but want some distinct styling inside and out, then you should check out the ST-Line trim. Not to be confused with the ST (we'll get to that later, promise), the ST-Line shares some style with it, although this trim has the standard 300-hp engine. Much like the Active, RWD is standard with Intelligent 4WD available, though this model comes with stunning 20-inch wheels and even has 21-inch wheels available. Further distinguishing this model from the standard trim, you'll find a black mesh grille and an available Vapor Blue Metallic exterior color that's not offered on the non-ST models.
Inside, you get the same impressive displays found in the Active model, although the ST-Line comes with a stunning 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Ebony upholstery inside the ST-Line makes an immediate impression every time you get inside, accented with Red stitching for an added touch of sleek sophistication. You also get unique cloth seating with the same Red stitching to create a cohesive interior—plus an eight-way power seat for your front copilot. Finally, the ST-Line comes equipped with the BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system, which you can choose to activate as an available option.
2025 Ford Explorer Platinum – Gorgeous Upgrades and Bold Technology
If you like the performance of the standard engine for the 2025 Explorer but want the most sophisticated and luxurious features available, then the Platinum trim is for you. Just like the previous two models, the Platinum comes with the same 300-hp engine that makes it enjoyable to drive every time you hit the road. A more powerful engine is available for this model, but we'll get to that more in a moment since it comes standard on the ST. Once again, RWD is standard with Intelligent 4WD available; this model also comes with 20-inch wheels and has a couple of different options for available 21-inch wheels. Exterior details for the Platinum include a Satin Chrome and Ebony front grille that looks stunning, plus additional Satin elements.
Moving inside, the Platinum has a gorgeously arranged and generously appointed cabin with three rows of seating for up to seven people. You get the same large displays found in other models, plus a stunning 14-speaker B&O sound system, including a subwoofer that helps transform your Explorer into a mobile concert hall that you'll enjoy driving around Jackson each day. You get leather seating inside the Platinum with Tri-Diamond Micro-Perforated inserts and accent stitching, as well as ventilated front seating that's perfect for hot summer days. All of this comes together beautifully to create a remarkable driving experience. Plus, the Platinum model comes with one year of BlueCruise hands-free driving service for you to enjoy and get the most from while driving each day or going on long road trips.
2025 Ford Explorer ST – Enhanced Power and Performance
Now for something quite different: if you're looking for an Explorer that delivers remarkable performance beyond what we've seen with the previous models, then you need to check out the ST trim. This beast is powered by a 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers an impressive 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic for a very responsive drive. You can see this is significantly more powerful than the standard engine, and it makes the ST a joy to drive around Jackson. RWD is still standard with Intelligent 4WD available, though the ST comes with massive 21-inch wheels for a bold and aggressive stance on the road. You'll also find performance front and rear brakes with red calipers, plus similar exterior details to the ST-Line to further set this trim apart from other models.
Inside, the ST has ebony upholstery with red stitching, much like the ST-Line, giving it a bold and dramatic interior that surrounds you with reminders of how much power is under your control. You get a sport-style steering wheel, ambient lighting to create a warm and welcoming environment, and the 10-speaker B&O sound system (though the 14-speaker version is available). The ST comes with a wireless charging pad to keep compatible devices powered up, and ActiveX seating with Red stitching that looks and feels stunning while being remarkably durable. One thing to note: while this is still a three-row SUV, the ST trim only has seating for six passengers, not seven, so keep that in mind while choosing the right trim.
Get the Perfect SUV to Explore Jackson
As you can see, there are plenty of distinct differences between these four trim levels that can help you compare them and decide on the right one. The starting Active model is fantastic if you're not looking for a lot of extras but still want a comfortable SUV that you'll enjoy driving each day. Go for the Platinum model if you're looking for a lot of enhancements and upgrades on your vehicle. The ST-Line is ideal if you like the styling of the ST trims but are happy with the standard engine, while the ST gives you those same stunning visual details while enhancing performance to another level entirely. You should have a pretty good sense of which of these models is right for you, though we're happy to help here at Steve Marsh Ford if you're still not sure or ready to see for yourself what the Explorer can do.