2025 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between the 2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.5T twin-turbocharged V6 models, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Prices varied from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. The Prestige Signature trim, priced at $84,600 with destination, featured exclusive exterior colors and a luxurious interior with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display. Despite its luxury, the exterior design was understated, and the wheel design was criticized for being too subtle.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Explorer continued its sleek design with a refreshed front end, giving it a wider and more rugged appearance. The rear featured new LED taillights and a trim strip with the SUV’s name. Interior updates improved the overall feel, making it competitive in its segment. Ford reduced the trim levels to four, including the new base Active trim and the sporty ST-Line. Prices ranged from $39,755 to $55,505, excluding a $1,595 destination charge. The ST-Line model, priced at $50,340, offered a stylish appearance with optional packages enhancing its look.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 2.5T featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, outperforming some rivals' larger V6 engines. The 3.5T model, with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, delivered 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, though it was less fuel-efficient, achieving 17.2 mpg in real-world testing. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, offering five driving modes. The GV80 3.5T excelled in performance with upgraded brakes and adaptive suspension, providing a sporty yet luxurious driving experience.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque for the ST model. All Explorers featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive, and optional four-wheel drive. The ST-Line model averaged 23.8 mpg during testing. The Explorer’s turbo four provided quick acceleration, while the ST-Line Street Package added performance brakes and larger wheels, enhancing its handling on winding roads.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature seated four with luxurious second-row captain’s chairs. The interior featured premium materials and advanced comfort features, though seat comfort was criticized on long trips. Cargo space was ample, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 84 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line model included heated front seats and a Premium Package with additional comfort features. The third row was less comfortable for adults, but storage space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial for ease of use. It included navigation, satellite radio, and wired smartphone integration. The Prestige trims added a head-up display and a digital key system. The infotainment system was praised for its intuitive interface and connectivity options.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrumentation. It offered Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with Google Maps and app downloads available. The Explorer also featured B&O sound systems, with higher trims offering enhanced audio quality.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came with advanced safety features, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings were slightly lower.

The 2025 Ford Explorer included Ford CoPilot 360+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims featured BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings from the NHTSA, with IIHS ratings pending.