Acura MDX vs Ford Explorer

2026 Acura MDX
2026 Acura MDX
$51,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2025 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Acura MDX
$51,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced

2001-2020

Years produced

1991-Present

MSRP

$51,800

MSRP

$40,050

Listings

925

Listings

2975

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Comfortable

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option

  • No off-road trim level

  • Cramped third-row

Reviews Summary

Reviews Summary

Thanks to numerous changes for 2025, the Ford Explorer is a more appealing alternative to the seemingly countless choices in the midsize three-row SUV segment. Highlights include sophisticated new infotainment and safety technologies, improved interior quality, bolder styling, and a simplified lineup offering Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trim levels. Also, as the prices of rivals have risen, the 2025 Ford Explorer seems properly priced in comparison.

Verdict: Ford’s updates to the Explorer for the 2025 model year have a positive effect on the SUV’s desirability. It looks tougher, it feels nicer inside, and the family-friendly SUV leaps forward technologically. Turbocharged power and a rear-drive platform add driving enjoyment. All that’s missing is a more comfortable third-row seat, an electrified powertrain option, and an off-road trim level.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 290 hp V6

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

290 hp @ 6200 rpm

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

29
2026 Acura MDX
2026 Acura MDX
$51,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Ford Explorer
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Acura MDX
$51,800MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Ford Explorer
$40,050MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

Years produced
2001-2020
1991-Present
MSRP
$51,800
$40,050
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.5

4.2

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Fun to drive

  • Comfortable

  • Easy-to-use technology

Cons

  • No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option

  • No off-road trim level

  • Cramped third-row

Summary

Thanks to numerous changes for 2025, the Ford Explorer is a more appealing alternative to the seemingly countless choices in the midsize three-row SUV segment. Highlights include sophisticated new infotainment and safety technologies, improved interior quality, bolder styling, and a simplified lineup offering Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trim levels. Also, as the prices of rivals have risen, the 2025 Ford Explorer seems properly priced in comparison.

Verdict: Ford’s updates to the Explorer for the 2025 model year have a positive effect on the SUV’s desirability. It looks tougher, it feels nicer inside, and the family-friendly SUV leaps forward technologically. Turbocharged power and a rear-drive platform add driving enjoyment. All that’s missing is a more comfortable third-row seat, an electrified powertrain option, and an off-road trim level.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 290 hp V6
2.3L 300 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
7
7
Horsepower
290 hp @ 6200 rpm
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
19
20
MPG Highway
26
29
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