Land Rover Range Rover Sport vs Ford Explorer

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.

Now in its third generation, the Range Rover Sport is a smaller alternative to the traditional Range Rover, and a more stylish alternative to the utilitarian Land Rover Defender and Discovery. Competitors include two-row midsize luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE Class, and Porsche Cayenne. This generation was introduced for the 2023 model year, so the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Sport sees minimal changes.

Verdict: Blending traditional Land Rover looks and luxury with sportier on-road driving dynamics, the Range Rover Sport justifies its place in the automaker’s convoluted lineup, but not in the larger luxury SUV market.