2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless style, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, enhancing its look despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with options for Sport and M Sport trims. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a full suite of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. Updates for 2024 included a BMW Curved Display and reduced physical controls, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials.

The 2025 Ford Explorer, refreshed with a sleeker design, featured a restyled front end that enhanced its rugged appearance. New LED taillights and wheel designs added to its appeal. Interior updates significantly improved the Explorer's ambiance, making it competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the trim levels from eight to four, including the new Active base trim, sporty ST-Line, luxurious Platinum, and performance-tuned ST. Prices ranged from $39,755 to $55,505. During a driving event in Michigan, the ST-Line with RWD and additional packages was tested, priced at $50,340. The Explorer's updates made it a more attractive option for families.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid engines and enhanced the xDrive50e PHEV's electric range and power. The PHEV offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode, with a total output of 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing excellent ride quality and handling. During testing, it achieved 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, showcasing its efficiency and performance.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. All models featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with RWD, and 4WD was optional. The ST-Line test vehicle averaged 23.8 mpg with the turbo four-cylinder. The Explorer's powertrain provided quick acceleration, and the ST-Line's larger wheels enhanced its handling. The ST version, with a sport-tuned suspension, demonstrated its performance capabilities on a short autocross course. The Platinum model's V6 offered fast acceleration and a pleasant sound, achieving 22.9 mpg on the highway.

The 2024 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers with a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided seating but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather, sport seats, and a Climate Comfort Package with heated and ventilated front seats. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, unlike the larger X7.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench for seven. The ST-Line test vehicle included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a Premium Package with ambient lighting and massage seats. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, and manual rear window shades were included. The third row was less comfortable for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space measured 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.8 cubic feet, competitive in its segment.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen running iDrive 8.5. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon sound system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, affecting navigation and media requests. The head-up display and augmented video function were highlights, though the assistant's performance was disappointing.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with effective Google Maps integration. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line featuring 10 speakers and higher trims offering 14 speakers. The system's simplicity and functionality were praised, though the ST-Line's audio quality was average.

The 2024 BMW X5 added Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in specific conditions but occasionally causing abrupt braking. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked well, though the system's behavior in traffic could be frustrating. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS but missed an award due to headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims featured BlueCruise for hands-free driving, performing well in testing but inconsistently when accommodating large trucks. The NHTSA had not fully rated the 2025 Explorer, but it received five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings. The IIHS had not published ratings at the time of review.