
In head-to-head competition for the best SUV for your family, the top contenders are the 2025 Ford Expedition and the 2025 Ford Explorer.
The biggest difference between the Expedition and the Explorer is size. In general, the Expedition is a larger SUV that packs more power, making it ideal if your family enjoys off-road travel and camping trips. The Explorer can also handle off-road driving, but this model also performs well in suburban areas with its slightly smaller size.
The Explorer has a minimum ground clearance of 7.6 inches, while the Expedition has a taller ride height of 8.7 inches, which gives drivers more confidence traveling over rocks and deep puddles. Some Expedition models, like the Tremor, have a ground clearance of 10.6 inches for even greater off-roading performance.
Expedition
The Expedition has a maximum towing capacity of 9,600 lbs, so it’s easy to haul fully loaded campers, horse trailers, and large boats. The Expedition has a base 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. For this motor, the estimated gas mileage is 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG combined. The Tremor model has a high-output powertrain that produces 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque.
This full-size SUV can seat eight passengers. This model has a three-zone automatic climate control system with auxiliary controls for the manual third-row climate control system. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go is also standard for this trim, so the SUV can keep pace with traffic while maintaining a safe following distance. This advanced system even has technology to predict speed changes and keep the SUV centered.
Explorer
In terms of performance, the Explorer can haul up to 5,000 lbs, which is an ideal towing capacity for moderately sized trailers and campers. The Explorer is equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged IV motor that’s perfect for eco-friendly suburban travel. On models like the Platinum, drivers can upgrade to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine for enhanced acceleration and power.
The Explorer has a maximum seating capacity of six passengers on the base model, and up to seven passengers on models like the ST-Lin, which comes with a second-row bench seat that can split with a 35/30/35 split.
Each of these Ford SUVs is a great match for families with active lifestyles. Test out each of these models when you drop by Conway Ford in Conway, SC today.


