Ford Explorer EV Review 2025: As the global automotive industry accelerates its shift towards electrification, the Ford Explorer EV emerges as Ford’s strategic entry into the competitive mid-size electric family SUV segment. This latest offering is not merely a repurposed Volkswagen ID.4 wearing Ford badges—it represents a distinct step toward upmarket ambitions with unique suspension tuning, design philosophy, and user-focused innovations. But does it have what it takes to stand out amid a sea of electric competitors?
The Ford Explorer EV blends the practicality of a family SUV with contemporary electric vehicle technology. Its foundation is shared with the Volkswagen ID.4 platform, but Ford engineers have infused it with their proprietary suspension setup, driving dynamics, and design elements that aim to offer a more adventurous yet refined experience. Positioned against rivals like Tesla Model X, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Explorer aims to strike a balance between utility, style, and driving ease, making it an appealing choice for families who value efficiency without sacrificing form.
From a design perspective, the Explorer stands apart with a boxier and more rugged appearance, evoking a sense of freedom and adventure reminiscent of its American SUV lineage. Inside, it offers competitive space, innovative storage solutions, and a highly adaptable digital interface. Performance-wise, multiple battery and motor configurations provide solid range and adequate acceleration, but the real value lies in its well-rounded approach to the practical electric SUV experience.
Specifications of Ford Explorer EV
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery Options | 52 kWh / 77 kWh (RWD), 79 kWh (AWD Dual Motor) |
| Range (WLTP) | 233 miles (52 kWh), 374 miles (77 kWh) |
| Acceleration (0-62 mph) | 8.7s (Entry RWD), 6.4s (Mid-spec RWD), 5.3s (AWD) |
| Top Speed | Approx. 160 km/h (Est.) |
| Charging Time (10-80%) | 26-28 minutes (Fast Charge) |
| Drive Type | RWD / AWD |
| Production Location | Cologne, Germany |
| Price Range | Approx. ₹60 – ₹85 Lakhs (Expected for India) |
Performance
The Ford Explorer EV offers a refined and balanced driving experience. Thanks to its taut yet compliant suspension and precise steering calibration, the vehicle maneuvers well around bends without feeling cumbersome. Despite its 2.1-ton weight, the Explorer feels lighter on the road, creating a comfortable and reassuring driving environment. The electric powertrain is quiet and efficient, with the dual-motor AWD version delivering the quickest acceleration (0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds). Charging capabilities are competitive, with a rapid charge enabling 10-80% in as little as 26 minutes.
Design: Bold and Functional
Exterior
Ford takes an unapologetically rugged approach in designing the Explorer EV. The blocky silhouette invokes a spirit of adventure and freedom, departing from the typical sleek and rounded shapes dominating the electric SUV space. Attention to aerodynamics ensures a low drag coefficient, helping maintain range and reducing wind noise for a quieter ride.
Interior
The cabin is spacious and well thought-out. Key features include:
- A cloth-covered soundbar integrated into the dashboard.
- Light grey trim enhancing the cabin’s premium feel.
- An innovative center touchscreen that slides fore and aft for optimal usability.
- Ample storage space, including a large, divisible console box between the seats.
Price Details and Launch
Although an exact price for the Indian market is yet to be confirmed, estimates suggest a range between ₹60 Lakhs to ₹85 Lakhs depending on the variant and features. Production begins in Cologne, Germany, with expectations that the Explorer EV will hit global markets by late 2025. Its price positioning reflects Ford’s strategy to target a more upmarket customer segment.
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Other Notable Features
- Advanced driver assistance systems.
- No synthetic sound effects, preserving a clean and quiet EV experience.
- Software updates expected to further enhance functionality and performance post-launch.
Conclusion
The Ford Explorer EV stands as a calculated, strategic entry into the increasingly competitive electric SUV market. It may not ignite passion in driving enthusiasts, but it performs its primary role—serving families in need of a dependable, stylish, and efficient electric vehicle—very well.
This model exemplifies Ford’s shift towards a more upmarket focus, moving away from entry-level petrol hatchbacks. The spacious interior, practical design, and strong electric range position it as a pragmatic yet stylish choice. Given the large number of similar competitors, the Explorer’s unique design language and thoughtful engineering offer just enough differentiation to grab the consumer’s attention.
Charging infrastructure and software updates will remain critical to its long-term success. Ford’s decision to delay the launch suggests they are prioritizing quality and competitiveness over a rushed market entry.
While it may not be the most exciting EV in terms of pure performance, its solid build and family-oriented functionality make it an appealing option for buyers seeking a well-rounded electric crossover.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the expected launch date of the Ford Explorer EV in India?
The Ford Explorer EV is expected to launch in India in late 2025. Given the complexities of homologation, market readiness, and charging infrastructure development, this timeline reflects Ford’s strategic, measured approach to enter the competitive Indian EV market.
2. What are the battery and range options available for the Ford Explorer EV?
There are three battery configurations:
- 52 kWh with a 233-mile WLTP range (approx. 275 motorway miles).
- 77 kWh with a 374-mile WLTP range (approx. 325 miles in mixed driving).
- Dual-motor AWD with a 79 kWh battery, enabling slightly faster charging and superior acceleration.
3. How does the Ford Explorer EV compare to competitors like Tesla Model X and Hyundai Ioniq 5?
While not as performance-focused as the Tesla Model X or as stylishly futuristic as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Explorer EV offers a more practical, family-focused approach. Its rugged design and usable interior space make it stand out in terms of real-world usability, especially for Indian road conditions.
4. What is the price range of the Ford Explorer EV in India?
Although exact pricing is yet to be announced, industry estimates place the Ford Explorer EV in the range of ₹60 Lakhs to ₹85 Lakhs, depending on the variant and configuration. This positions it in the premium mid-size electric SUV segment.
5. What are the key features that make the Ford Explorer EV stand out?
- Rugged, adventure-inspired design.
- Adjustable center touchscreen for better ergonomics.
- Competitive electric range and rapid charging capability.
- Spacious, functional cabin with innovative storage solutions.
- Well-tuned suspension and steering providing a light and comfortable drive.