2025 Ford Explorer ST Track Test at Road America

Ford Explorer ST on Track

• 🚗 The 2025 Ford Explorer ST was driven on the Road America racetrack as part of the Mama Spring Rally.
• 🌧️ The track conditions were described as wet and greasy, offering a challenging environment to test the vehicle's limits.
• 💨 The ST trim features a 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine producing approximately 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and 4WD.

Driving Impressions

• 💡 The vehicle is equipped with ST sport-tuned suspension, ST performance brakes with red calipers, and paddle shifters for manual mode.
• 🚀 Initial impressions on track noted good tire grip, fantastic power delivery, and strong brakes, with the 10-speed automatic shifting quickly.
• ⚠️ The driver found the vehicle rotated nicely and felt relatively relaxed with traction control off, though noted the potential for auto upshifts at redline.

Performance and Limitations

• ⚡ The 3.0L twin-turbo engine provides significant torque, making it a capable performance crossover for its price point.
• 🛑 Acknowledged limitations included the brakes potentially lacking endurance for multiple laps and the vehicle not being primarily designed for track use.
• 💨 The throttle response in sport mode was noted as aggressive, contrasting with the more subdued experience in normal and eco modes during a previous street drive.

Overall Experience

• 🏁 Despite not being a dedicated track vehicle, the Explorer ST performed well all things considered, offering a fun experience on Road America.
• 👃 The scent of hot brakes was noticeable after the track session, reinforcing the idea that it's not intended for sustained track abuse.
• ✅ The vehicle was deemed well-balanced for a two-row family SUV, even when pushed to its limits on the racetrack.