A POPULAR Ford SUV will see a major interior upgrade in 2025 to incorporate Google and Zoom options as part of a new tech package.
The carmaker has managed to pack in all the extra features while maintaining a “hard cap” on the price.
The 2025 Ford Explorer is set for a design refresh[/caption]
Most of the changes will come in the interior[/caption]
The model will be equipped with Google Assitant, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto[/caption]
The Explorer has been on the market since 1991 and is consistently one of Ford’s best-sellers in North America.
Produced at the brand’s Chicago factory, it is even sold to law enforcement departments across the country as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility.
The model was renewed for a sixth generation in 2022, while a hybrid version was introduced in 2022.
But the 2025 model year will see a mid-generation design refresh, with particular focus on the interior.
The most significant addition is a completely digital dashboard, with everything controlled from a 13.2″ touchscreen coupled with a 12.3″ LED gauge panel.
This also incorporates Google Assistant, which brings with it the full range of apps from the platform.
The voice control software can handle most driver commands, while there’s also Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for those who prefer to do it manually.
There’s even Zoom video conferencing software folded into the package.
However, as you might expect, this does come with some restrictions, with drivers only able to use the video call feature while parked safely.
That’s not to say there have been no exterior tweaks, though, as Ford seeks to freshen up the model’s look.
Customers can now pick from some new paint job options, while the grille has been enlarged and the head and tail lights redesigned.
One of the most unexpected changes is the removal of the locking differential, which reduces the Explorer’s off-road abilities quite substantially.
The all-wheel-drive system and V6 engine options mean it’s still suited to the occasional dirt track, but the more hardcore stuff is best left to others.
On the bright side, Ford have managed to keep a “hard cap” on the model’s price, with the Explorer famously described as the “fastest SUV under $60,000”.
The base level Active trim is priced from $39,755, while the ST version is $44,515 and the range-topping Platinum variant clocks in at $52,150.
It comes after Google unveiled a free feature which could help drivers avoid speeding tickets.
Drivers can even access Zoom[/caption]
Ford has kept the $60,000 ‘hard cap’ on the model’s price[/caption]
But a key off-road feature has been removed[/caption]
