Ford Explorer Review: The bold and practical SUV EV

Join us as we take a closer look at the Ford Explorer, a bold, fully-electric SUV that isn’t minimalistic or futuristic.

Bigger, bolder, boxier.

Meet the Ford Explorer, a fully electric SUV that dares to be different.

No ultra-futuristic, minimalistic nonsense here — just a proper, practical, and well-equipped EV with a strong Ford identity.

The moment you step inside, you just know it’s a Ford.

The chunky, rugged design, the reassuringly solid build, and — wait for it — buttons! Yes, actual, physical buttons, a rarity in modern EVs.

What we drove:

• Model: Ford Explorer Premium BEV EXT Range 77kwh / 286ps RWD Auto 1SP
• Transmission: Automatic
• Power: Electric
• Colour: Rapid Red
• OTR Price: £50,775
• Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 6.4 sec
• Max Torque (2000-4000rpm): 545 NM
• OTR Price Range: £39,875-£53,975

*Prices correct at the time of publication

With the average cost of an electric car in the UK being £46,000, according to NimbleFins, this sits pretty much smack bang in the middle.

Before driving it, opinions at Carparison HQ were pretty neutral—but by the end of the day, it had won over many hearts.

Or watch our video review over on YouTube:

Buttons, build quality and that Ford feeling

Step inside the Ford Explorer, and you’re met with a cabin that prioritises both comfort and usability.

Ford has nailed the balance between modern tech and traditional functionality — yes, there are actual buttons.

Not too many, not too few, just enough to keep things intuitive.

The window controls are interesting — just two buttons with a selector for the rear windows — while even the child lock is within easy reach.

Usability is up, making it so much easier to use and more user friendly. Even if it does sacrifice the aesthetics a tad, we still love it.

Smart storage, MegaConsole and a 14.6” surprise

Go in the boot and you have 470 litres of space. While this is less than rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.4 and SKODA Enyaq, it’s still plenty of space for all of life’s bits and bobs.

Look between the seats and you have the MegaConsole storage space. This bad boy has 17 litres of storage, meaning you can fit a large handbag, a laptop and even a couple 1.5L bottles in it.

It even has a little hammer in case of emergency.

The 14.6” infotainment system is impressive. It uses Ford's SYNC® system and even has a smart, lockable behind-screen storage compartment called My Private Locker.

Need to carry something big? You can load up to 75kg onto the roof rack.

Cupholders, charging and concert-ready sound

The centre console: something so simple, yet Ford have designed it so well.

Right next to the cupholders (a very important feature for our Tori), there’s a little slot that not only fits your phone, but charges it too — without the hassle of wires.

Want great sound? The B&O immersive 10-speaker audio system with a subwoofer and an integrated soundbar turns your car into party central.

This car is packed with tech to make your life easier (and safer) when driving. Here are just a few highlights:

• EV trip planner – Provides live updates and optimises your route
• Head-up display – Shows key driving information without taking your eyes off the road
• Adaptive Cruise Control & Assisted Lane Change – Enhances long-distance driving
• Active Park Assist & 360-degree camera – Makes parking effortless

Smooth roads, tight spots and a trip to the beach

Leaving Carparison HQ, I quickly noticed that the Explorer takes a little more oomph to get going compared to other EVs we’ve driven.

But this actually made it feel more natural — no sudden, jarring acceleration, just a smooth and controlled ride.

Once on the open road, the drive was buttery smooth.

One thing that stood out? It’s a little louder than other EVs — not in an annoying way, but with a subtle whirring sound.

Honestly, I didn’t mind. It just faded into the background.

With five drive modes — Normal, ECO, Sport, Individual, and Traction (AWD only) — you can adjust the drive to suit your journey.

The sun even made an appearance (a rare sight in the UK), so we took it down to Exmouth beach, then headed through country lanes to Woodbury Common.

A perfect test for an everyday family SUV — smooth roads, tight parking spots, and a bit of fun along the way.

Miles, minutes and mega charging networks

The Explorer has a combined range of up to 374 miles, depending on the model you choose.

Plenty for the school run, daily life, and even a cheeky spontaneous road trip.

Need a quick top-up? You can gain approximately 107 miles in 10 minutes of charging.

You’ll also be spoiled for choice with the Ford BlueOval Charge Network. With over 33,000 charging points in the UK and over 800,000 in Europe, staying topped up is easier than ever.

And with Tesla expanding the reach of their Supercharger Network, you’ll even have access to these rapid charging beasts.

Steel, sensors and safety sorted

Ford has gone all out with safety, earning a 5-Star Euro NCAP rating thanks to features such as:

• Reinforced boron steel structure for extra strength
• Enhanced airbags
• Seats and belts designed to keep passengers in optimal position in the event of a collision
• Driver alert system monitoring your driving and prompting you to take a break when needed
• Add on the Driver Assistance Technology Pack to get 12 ultrasonic sensors, five cameras, and three radar sensors working together to keep you safe

Plus, features like the 360-degree camera and Active Park Assist make parking as easy as pie—no matter how tight the space is.

The verdict: Rugged, roomy and ready for anything

Ford has done what it does best — created a practical, well-equipped, and no-nonsense SUV, now with an electric twist.

Pros: Spacious, smart storage, button-friendly interior, great tech, solid safety features. 

Cons: Slightly smaller boot than rivals, noisier than some EVs.

Would we recommend it? Absolutely. If you’re after an EV that still feels like a “proper” car, rather than a tech experiment on wheels, the Ford Explorer is a fantastic choice — especially for families.

Practicality meets modern tech, all wrapped up in that classic Ford ruggedness.

What’s not to love?