Top 5 Ford SUVs You Should Consider in 2025: Your Complete Buyer’s Guide
Picture this: You’re loading up gear for a weekend camping trip, kids are fighting over who gets the better seat, and you need enough room for everyone plus the dog. Sound familiar? The right SUV makes all the difference between stress and smooth sailing.
Why Ford SUVs Dominate the American Road
Ford builds SUVs the way they build everything else — tough, practical, and packed with smart technology. Whether you need three rows for the family, serious off-road capability, or just a reliable daily driver that won’t quit, Ford’s 2025 lineup has something that fits.
The versatile SUV market keeps growing because these vehicles do it all. They handle school runs and road trips equally well. They offer car-like comfort with truck-like capability. And in 2025, Ford’s offering some of the best options on the market.
Let’s break down the top five Ford SUVs you should seriously consider this year. Each one excels in different areas, so you’ll find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
The Best Ford SUVs for 2025
1. Ford Explorer: The Family Adventure Machine
The Explorer has been Ford’s mid-size SUV champion for over three decades, and the 2025 model shows exactly why it’s still a best-seller.
What makes it special? Three rows of seating, available turbocharged power, and enough tech to keep everyone happy on long drives. The Explorer strikes that perfect balance between size and maneuverability.
The base 2.3L EcoBoost engine delivers 300 horsepower — plenty for highway merging and mountain passes. Want more? The available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 cranks out 400 horses, giving you serious passing power.
Inside, you get SYNC 4 with a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen. Wireless charging keeps phones ready. Available Co-Pilot360 includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, making long trips way less exhausting.
The Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped — perfect for hauling a boat or camper!
Families love the second-row captain’s chairs option. Kids get their own space, and that middle aisle makes reaching the third row much easier. The cargo area swallows 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87.8 cubes with everything folded.
“The Explorer delivers exactly what modern families need — space, power, and technology that actually works.”
Best for: Growing families, suburban commuters, road trip enthusiasts
2. Ford Bronco Sport: Adventure in a Compact Package
Don’t confuse this with its bigger Bronco sibling. The Bronco Sport is built on a different platform, but it’s no less capable when the pavement ends.
This compact SUV brings genuine off-road ability without the bulk. The Badlands trim features terrain management with seven G.O.A.T. modes (Goes Over Any Terrain), including Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl settings.
Under the hood, the base 1.5L EcoBoost produces 181 horsepower — adequate for daily driving. But the serious fun starts with the available 2.0L EcoBoost making 250 hp. Pair that with intelligent four-wheel drive, and you’ve got weekend warrior capability.
The interior surprises with its ruggedness. Rubberized floors, water-resistant seats, and easy-clean surfaces mean you don’t stress about muddy boots or sandy gear. The rear cargo area includes zippered storage under the floor — perfect for recovery straps and tools.
Ford designed the Bronco Sport with washable interior materials specifically for outdoor enthusiasts!
At just 172 inches long, it fits in city parking spots and tight trails equally well. The short wheelbase and tight turning radius make it nimble in ways larger SUVs can’t match.
Best for: Outdoor adventurers, city dwellers who escape on weekends, first-time SUV buyers
3. Ford Expedition: The Full-Size Powerhouse
When you need maximum space and capability, the Expedition delivers without compromise. This is Ford’s largest SUV, and it’s designed for people who refuse to choose between comfort and capability.
The standard 3.5L twin-turbo V6 produces 380 horsepower. Upgrade to the Platinum or Timberline trims, and you get 440 hp with 510 lb-ft of torque. That’s serious power for a vehicle this size.
Towing capacity reaches an impressive 9,300 pounds with the max tow package. You can haul large travel trailers, multiple ATVs, or even a small boat without breaking a sweat. The independent rear suspension maintains ride comfort even when towing heavy loads.
Inside, the Expedition feels more luxury sedan than truck. Available massaging seats, a premium 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and tri-zone climate control make every passenger comfortable. The optional 15.5-inch touchscreen is one of the largest in any vehicle.
Third-row legroom actually accommodates adults comfortably — not always true in this segment. Behind the third row, you get 19.3 cubic feet. Fold everything down, and you have a massive 104.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
Always ensure proper weight distribution and follow towing guidelines for safe operation.
The Expedition Max offers even more space with an extended wheelbase. If you regularly haul eight people and their gear, this is your vehicle.
Best for: Large families, frequent towers, luxury seekers who need space
4. Ford Edge: The Stylish Crossover Alternative
The Edge offers a sportier, more car-like alternative to traditional SUVs. It sits lower than the Explorer, making entry and exit easier while maintaining strong road presence.
Ford’s 2.0L EcoBoost turbo-four powers the base model with 250 horsepower. The Edge ST performance model upgrades to a 2.7L twin-turbo V6 producing 335 hp — making it one of the quickest two-row crossovers available.
The Edge ST isn’t just about straight-line speed. Ford tuned the suspension for spirited driving, added sport-tuned steering, and included paddle shifters for manual control. It delivers surprising fun for a family vehicle.
Standard features include Ford’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a hands-free liftgate. The interior materials feel upscale, especially in Titanium and ST trims.
Cargo space measures 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 73.4 cubes with seats folded. That’s perfect for big shopping trips or sports equipment without going full-size.
The Edge delivers excellent fuel economy for its class. The base EcoBoost achieves up to 26 mpg combined — impressive for a vehicle with this much power and space.
Best for: Empty nesters, couples, drivers who want SUV practicality with car-like handling
5. Ford Escape: The Efficient Daily Driver
The Escape is Ford’s compact entry, and it’s packed with smart choices for practical buyers. Available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains make it one of the most fuel-efficient options in Ford’s lineup.
The base 1.5L EcoBoost produces 180 horsepower — adequate for commuting and errands. But the real star is the hybrid powertrain delivering 200 combined horsepower and an EPA-estimated 41 mpg in the city. That’s serious fuel savings.
Want even better efficiency? The Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers 37 miles of pure electric range. For many daily commuters, that means driving on electricity alone and using zero gasoline.
Inside, the Escape feels surprisingly spacious despite its compact dimensions. The cargo area provides 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Fold those down, and you get 65.4 cubes — enough for Ikea runs and Home Depot hauls.
Ford’s hybrid system seamlessly switches between gas and electric power — most drivers never notice the transitions!
The Escape includes standard FordPass Connect with built-in WiFi hotspot capability. You can also use your smartphone as a key, eliminating the need for traditional key fobs.
City parking becomes easy thanks to the Escape’s compact size and excellent visibility. It fits where larger SUVs struggle, making it ideal for urban living.
Best for: Commuters, eco-conscious buyers, urban dwellers, budget-conscious families
2025 Ford SUV Comparison: Key Specifications
| Model | Engine Options | Horsepower | Seating | MPG (City/Hwy) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Escape | 1.5L Turbo / 2.0L Turbo / Hybrid | 180-250 hp | 5 | 28/34 (turbo) | $30,245 |
| Bronco Sport | 1.5L Turbo / 2.0L Turbo | 181-250 hp | 5 | 25/28 (base) | $33,920 |
| Edge | 2.0L Turbo / 2.7L Twin-Turbo | 250-335 hp | 5 | 21/28 (base) | $39,995 |
| Explorer | 2.3L Turbo / 3.0L Twin-Turbo | 300-400 hp | 6-7 | 20/28 (base) | $39,710 |
| Expedition | 3.5L Twin-Turbo | 380-440 hp | 8 | 17/23 | $60,130 |
Ford SUV Popularity Trends: What Buyers Choose
Frequently Asked Questions About Ford SUVs
Q: Which Ford SUV is best for gas mileage?
The Ford Escape Hybrid delivers the best fuel economy in Ford’s SUV lineup, achieving up to 41 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers even better efficiency with 37 miles of electric-only range. For non-hybrid options, the standard Escape with the 1.5L EcoBoost achieves up to 28 city / 34 highway mpg.
Q: Can the Ford Bronco Sport handle serious off-roading?
Yes, especially in Badlands or First Edition trims. The Bronco Sport features genuine off-road hardware including terrain management modes, increased ground clearance (8.8 inches on Badlands), and available front and rear locking differentials. It handles trails, mud, and sand surprisingly well for a compact SUV. However, for extreme rock crawling, the full-size Bronco is the better choice.
Q: How does the Ford Explorer compare to the Chevy Traverse?
Both are excellent three-row SUVs. The Explorer offers more powerful engine options (up to 400 hp versus Traverse’s 310 hp) and better towing capacity (5,600 lbs versus 5,000 lbs). The Traverse provides slightly more third-row legroom and a lower starting price. Explorer’s turbocharged engines deliver better acceleration, while the Traverse’s V6 is simpler mechanically.
Q: Is the Ford Expedition worth the extra cost over the Explorer?
If you regularly need maximum towing (9,300 lbs versus 5,600 lbs), haul eight passengers with their gear, or want true luxury features, yes. The Expedition offers significantly more cargo space and feels more substantial. However, the Explorer is easier to park, gets better fuel economy, and costs $20,000+ less. Consider your actual needs versus wants.
Q: What’s the difference between Edge ST and regular Edge models?
The Edge ST features a more powerful 2.7L twin-turbo V6 (335 hp versus 250 hp), sport-tuned suspension, enhanced braking, unique exterior styling, and upgraded interior appointments. It accelerates to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds — legitimately quick for a two-row crossover. Regular Edge models prioritize comfort and efficiency over performance.
Q: Do Ford SUVs require premium fuel?
Most Ford SUVs run perfectly on regular 87-octane fuel. However, the Explorer ST, Edge ST, and Expedition Platinum/Timberline with the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost recommend premium fuel for maximum performance. You can use regular fuel in these models, but you’ll experience reduced power and slightly lower fuel economy.
Q: Which Ford SUV has the best technology features?
The 2025 Explorer and Expedition lead with technology. Both offer the massive 13.2-inch or larger touchscreens, SYNC 4 with cloud-connected navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and comprehensive Co-Pilot360 driver assistance. The Expedition adds available features like BlueCruise hands-free highway driving. All Ford SUVs now include standard WiFi hotspot capability.
Q: How reliable are Ford’s turbocharged EcoBoost engines?
Ford’s EcoBoost engines have proven reliable when properly maintained. The key is following maintenance schedules, using quality synthetic oil, and avoiding extended idle periods. Many owners report driving EcoBoost-powered vehicles past 150,000 miles with minimal issues. The technology has matured significantly since its 2011 introduction, with improved turbochargers and engine management systems.
Making Your Choice: Which Ford SUV Fits Your Life?
Choosing the right SUV comes down to honest assessment of your needs. Here’s a quick decision guide:
Need maximum fuel efficiency? → Escape Hybrid or Plug-In Hybrid
Want off-road adventure capability? → Bronco Sport Badlands
Hauling three rows regularly? → Explorer or Expedition
Seeking sporty driving dynamics? → Edge ST
Prioritizing affordability and practicality? → Standard Escape
Maximum towing and space? → Expedition with max tow package
Remember, every Ford SUV includes standard safety features, smartphone integration, and Ford’s reputation for dependable engineering. You’re getting solid value regardless of which model you choose.
Final Thoughts: Ford SUVs Continue to Deliver
Ford’s 2025 SUV lineup shows the company’s commitment to building vehicles that handle real-world needs. Whether you’re navigating city streets, tackling weekend trails, or hauling the family cross-country, there’s a Ford SUV engineered for your lifestyle.
The blend of turbocharged efficiency, advanced technology, and practical design makes these vehicles smart choices for modern buyers. They work hard when you need them to, play hard when adventure calls, and deliver reliable transportation day after day.
Always test drive multiple models before deciding. What looks perfect on paper might not feel right behind the wheel, and vice versa. Visit your local Ford dealer, experience these SUVs firsthand, and find the one that makes you smile.
Which of these five Ford SUVs matches your needs? Are you team compact efficiency, mid-size family hauler, or full-size powerhouse? Drop a comment and let us know what features matter most to you!
References:
- Ford Motor Company Official Specifications: ford.com
- EPA Fuel Economy Estimates: fueleconomy.gov
- Automotive Sales Data: Automotive News & Ford Media Center
- Safety Ratings: IIHS and NHTSA Testing Results
