Help with Purchase

[cgspff]

Hello Everyone,

I have been lurking for a while doing research. I Am going to buy one. I am not in a hurry to get one and I have some questions I was hoping you could help me out with it. I drove a new one last night. I like the slate blue color. The one I drove is $60k out the door. I looked at a used 2025 with 3100 miles that is $55K out the door. Which to me is a little ridiculous. I was looking at 2023 and 2024's used. Is there any advantage to a new one over one of those years? I did notice they seem to be hard to find.

One big question I had is what is the difference in features between those years. Also, I have not bought or shopped for a vehicle since 2015 and the prices are like getting hit by a brick. Is anyone seeing any better pricing on the new ones or know of any rebates coming up sooner than later? My wife and I also thought about ordering a 2026 if the prices stay the same with no rebates. You all have a ton of experience with this. Any help is appreciated.

Oh, never thought I would like massaging seats, but, WOW!!! They are pretty awesome. Hope you all have a great day and if you are in the DMV area watch out for the storms.

 

[KCM]

Here is a post I made a while back on differences which should get you started. The entire thread should be helpful.

Was ready to buy 2022 ST but had issue with perimeter sensors…..year ?? | Explorer ST Forum

One change to note for 2026 is it sounds like they are getting rid of the opening sunroof and it will only be a fixed glass panel.

 

[cgspff]

Thank you!! I appreciate the help. There is a ton of knowledge on this forum so I am trying to take in everything. I will read thru that.

 

[KCM]

One other change: Active Park Assist was deleted in 2025 as either standard or an option. Was available from 2020-2024.

 

[2020FordRaptor]

Hello Everyone,

I have been lurking for a while doing research. I Am going to buy one. I am not in a hurry to get one and I have some questions I was hoping you could help me out with it. I drove a new one last night. I like the slate blue color. The one I drove is $60k out the door. I looked at a used 2025 with 3100 miles that is $55K out the door. Which to me is a little ridiculous. I was looking at 2023 and 2024's used. Is there any advantage to a new one over one of those years? I did notice they seem to be hard to find.

One big question I had is what is the difference in features between those years. Also, I have not bought or shopped for a vehicle since 2015 and the prices are like getting hit by a brick. Is anyone seeing any better pricing on the new ones or know of any rebates coming up sooner than later? My wife and I also thought about ordering a 2026 if the prices stay the same with no rebates. You all have a ton of experience with this. Any help is appreciated.

Oh, never thought I would like massaging seats, but, WOW!!! They are pretty awesome. Hope you all have a great day and if you are in the DMV area watch out for the storms.

Most people have been able to get a new ST down to like $58k out the door. The 2025s have improved technology, but to me aren’t worth the price compared to used 2020-24 cars. I like how the older ones can be tuned, have real leather, and better interior and exterior design IMO. If you want a new one, I’d stick with the 2025s, the 2026 have a few deleted items and changes. Here’s the two buyers guide articles I did for this platform, which should help you with finding what is best for your needs.

http://explorerstenthusiasts.com/buyers-guide/

 

[cgspff]

Thank you!!! That has been a ton of help.