2025 Ford Explorer vs. Mustang Mach-E

Choosing between the 2025 Ford Explorer and the 2025 Mustang Mach-E is tough. These two SUVs bring unique strengths to the table — balancing traditional combustion power with innovative electric performance. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of both SUVs' design, performance, technology, comfort, and utility to help you determine which vehicle best suits your needs. Whether you're looking for classic versatility or electrified innovation, this ultimate showdown has you covered.

Overview of Both Models: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Explorer remains one of America's favorite midsize SUVs. Combining rugged capability, family-friendly features, and modern design, it offers versatility for drivers who value adventure and everyday practicality. Available in four trims, its base MSRP starts at $39,755 and goes up to $54,260, offering options for a wide range of buyers.

The 2025 Mustang Mach-E represents Ford's future-forward approach to electric vehicles (EVs). This all-electric SUV delivers impressive performance, advanced technology, and a sleek, futuristic aesthetic. Available in five trims, pricing ranges from $38,490 to $57,990. Offering up to 320 miles of range and sports-car-level acceleration, the Mach-E sets new standards for EV performance.

Design and Aesthetics: Exterior and Interior

While both vehicles are SUVs, the 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E feature distinct exterior and interior design languages.

The Explorer's Design Evolution

The 2025 Ford Explorer builds on its bold, rugged design with sharp lines, strong proportions, and signature SUV styling. Standard LED headlights, fog lamps, and an updated grille add a touch of refinement while maintaining its tough, family-friendly persona. Inside, the Explorer offers a spacious, functional cabin with quality materials, intuitive controls, and seating for up to seven passengers. Key features include:

• Standard LED low and high beams and fog lamps
• Leather seating and panoramic sunroofs on higher trims
• Versatile three-row layout with ample cargo space

The Mustang Mach-E's Futuristic Appeal

The Mustang Mach-E brings a fresh, modern aesthetic to the SUV segment. Its aerodynamic design — marked by a coupe-like roofline — pays homage to Mustang's performance heritage. Inside, the minimalist cabin features a sleek dashboard with a massive vertically oriented 15.5-inch touchscreen and premium materials that exude high-tech sophistication. Key features include:

• Distinct Mustang-inspired styling with a sporty silhouette
• Premium interior with heated seats and panoramic glass roof
• A 117.5-inch wheelbase for a spacious, stable ride

For families, the Explorer's classic SUV appeal shines. For tech enthusiasts and EV fans, the Mach-E's futuristic design steals the spotlight.

Performance Metrics: Engine, Power, and Efficiency

Below, we discuss the performance metrics of the 2025 Explorer and Mustang Mach-E.

Engine Specifications of the Ford Explorer

The Explorer offers traditional gas-powered performance with robust engine options:

• 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine: 300 hp and decent fuel efficiency, ideal for everyday driving
• 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine: 400 hp for thrilling performance

Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer provides smooth acceleration and impressive towing capabilities for adventure enthusiasts.

Electric Prowess of the Mustang Mach-E

The Mustang Mach-E delivers outstanding performance thanks to its all-electric powertrain:

• Standard range (70 kWh) battery: Base models produce 266 hp with rear-wheel drive.
• Extended range (91 kWh) battery: All-wheel-drive versions produce up to 346 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque.
• GT Performance package: This upgrade offers 480 hp and a 0-to-60 mph sprint time of under 4 seconds.

Efficiency-wise, the Mach-E offers an EPA-estimated 320 miles of range and ratings of up to 110 MPGe city and 96 MPGe highway in its most efficient setup.

For traditional power and towing, the Explorer wins. For speed, efficiency, and sustainability, the Mach-E leads the pack.

Tech Features and Innovations

Both SUVs have a long list of tech features, but the Mach-E has a more advanced cabin and driver-assistance system.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Both vehicles prioritize connectivity and entertainment with Ford's SYNC technology. The 2025 Ford Explorer features a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen (B&O) sound system on all trims except the base model. Higher trims include a Wi-Fi hotspot and rear entertainment systems for passengers.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Mustang Mach-E stands out with its 15.5-inch vertical touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air software updates, mobile Wi-Fi hot spot, and a B&O audio system on select trims.

Safety Technologies and Ratings

Both SUVs come with safety features to keep drivers confident and secure, including Ford Co-Pilot360 technology with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Mustang Mach-E offers additional features, such as BlueCruise hands-free driving on mapped highways. In terms of tech and innovation, the Mustang Mach-E offers a more futuristic and advanced tech experience, particularly with its massive touch screen and over-the-air updates.

Comfort and Utility

Comfort is a strong suit of both vehicles, but the Explorer is the more practical choice for everyday driving.

Interior Space Comparison

The Explorer is designed for families with its spacious three-row configuration that seats up to seven passengers. Cargo capacity is generous. You get 16.3 cubic feet behind the third-row seats and a maximum cargo capacity of 84.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Mustang Mach-E, while a two-row SUV, offers exceptional space for an EV. It has 29.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 59.7 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Ride Quality and Driving Experience

The Explorer provides a balanced ride with a focus on comfort. Its suspension soaks up bumps while offering confident handling.

The Mach-E delivers a sportier, more dynamic driving experience with instant electric torque, precise steering, and a smooth, quiet ride. Its suspension is tuned to deliver improved stability without compromising comfort.

For families needing space and versatility, the Explorer wins. For an engaging driving experience, the Mach-E delivers.

Test-Drive the 2025 Ford Explorer and Mustang Mach-E at Chalmers Ford Today

The Explorer is ideal for people who need a spacious, traditional SUV for families, road trips, and towing. Its versatile layout, powerful engines, and rugged styling make it a practical choice for families and adventurers. Choose the Mustang Mach-E if you want an all-electric SUV that delivers speed, efficiency, and industry-leading technology. Its impressive range, sporty performance, and futuristic features make it perfect for tech-savvy, eco-conscious drivers. Contact our dealership in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, today to explore both models and take them for a test drive to see which one is the perfect match for you.