Cargazing
By Derek Price

The 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning demonstrates how far electric vehicles have come.

This electric pickup successfully translates America’s best-selling vehicle into a capable EV that brings both impressive innovations and inevitable compromises to the segment.

Under its conventional-looking aluminum bodywork, the Lightning packs serious performance credentials. The Extended Range version combines dual electric motors producing 580 horsepower with a 131-kWh battery pack, delivering effortless acceleration that surpasses its gas-powered siblings.

From a stop, the instant torque pins passengers to their seats with a quietness that seems impossible from such a substantial vehicle.

The truck’s battery pack, mounted low in the frame, contributes to notably stable handling. Ford’s independent rear suspension provides a smoother ride than traditional leaf springs, though the truck’s considerable weight remains apparent in corners.

The Lightning retains traditional F-150 proportions while adding distinctive LED lighting elements and aerodynamic wheel designs.

Steering provides good feedback for a full-size pickup, and brake response blends regenerative and friction braking seamlessly.

Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. The 14.1 cubic-foot front trunk offers secure, weatherproof storage where an engine would normally sit.

The optional 9.6-kW Pro Power Onboard system can power job sites or serve as emergency home backup, adding genuine utility beyond regular truck duties. Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Smart Hitch features help manage towing duties.

The interior follows standard F-150 design, with a spacious crew cab accommodating five adults comfortably. Upper trims feature a 15.5-inch portrait touchscreen that manages most functions effectively, though some interior materials feel inconsistent with our test truck’s $80,490 price point.

Range and charging present the most significant challenges. While the EPA estimates 320 miles per charge for Extended Range models, that number decreases substantially when towing or hauling near the 1,952-pound payload capacity.

Ford’s native navigation system helps locate charging stations, but long-distance travel requires careful planning around DC fast-charging availability. The new vapor injection heat pump system helps maintain range in cold weather conditions.

A vertical 15.5-inch touchscreen anchors the dashboard in higher trims, while familiar controls maintain easy operation.

Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network through Ford’s new charging adapter should help address some range anxiety concerns.

Recent price reductions make the Lightning more accessible, with the new Flash trim offering extended range capability under $70,000. Standard equipment includes Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, LED lighting, and power-adjustable seats.

Our test vehicle added the Pro Power upgrade, BlueCruise capability, and max trailer tow package, pushing the final price to $80,490 with destination.

The Lightning’s dual-motor powertrain configuration provides standard four-wheel drive, with ground clearance matching regular F-150s.

While it won’t replace purpose-built off-road models, the instant torque proves useful on loose surfaces. The independent suspension balances capability with comfort better than traditional truck setups.

Ford’s decision to maintain familiar F-150 dimensions means the Lightning works with existing truck accessories and storage solutions. The 5.5-foot bed offers the same functionality as gas models, including built-in scales to monitor payload weight.

Overall, the Lightning proves most compelling as a daily-use truck that occasionally handles heavier duties.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Ford F-150 Lightning ($74,495). Options: Pro Power onboard 9.6 kW ($1,200), BlueCruise with three-year plan ($2,100), max trailer tow package ($1,100), mobile power cord ($500). Price as tested (including $2,095 destination charge): $80,490

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 145.5 in.
Length: 232.7 in.
Width: 96 in.
Height: 78.3 in.
Battery: 131 kWh
Power: Dual electric motors (580 combined hp)
Range: 320 miles
MPGe: 70 city, 63 highway

RATINGS

Style: 7
Performance: 8
Price: 6
Handling: 8
Ride: 9
Comfort: 9
Quality: 8
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?
Ford’s advanced electric pickup delivers strong performance and innovative features while maintaining core F-150 functionality.

Cargazing
By Derek Price

Family SUVs don’t have to be boring, and the refreshed 2025 Ford Explorer proves it.

With muscular styling outside and thoughtful updates inside, this latest version of America’s best-selling SUV shows why it’s managed to stay popular for nearly 35 years.

The most dramatic changes for 2025 happen in the cabin, where a new 12.3-inch touchscreen runs Google’s intuitive interface. It’s a massive improvement over Ford’s previous system, with crisp graphics and quick responses.

Even better, the Explorer is expanding the availability of BlueCruise, Ford’s impressive hands-free driving system that works on most major highways.

Refreshed styling keeps the Explorer’s muscular presence intact while adding modern LED lighting elements for 2025.

After extensive testing, BlueCruise proves to be more than just marketing hype. The system confidently handles highway driving, including lane changes initiated simply by using the turn signal. While the 90-day trial period feels short, the subscription cost — $49.99 monthly or $495 annually — seems reasonable given how much stress it removes from long trips.

The Explorer’s comfort credentials extend beyond its tech. Our ST-Line tester’s optional massaging seats provide welcome relief during extended drives, while the hushed cabin rivals luxury SUVs costing thousands more.

The first two rows offer abundant space, though the third row remains best suited for occasional use.
Power comes from a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission.

While adequate for most situations, the engine’s drone under hard acceleration lacks refinement.
Those seeking more grunt can opt for the 400-horsepower V6 in ST and Platinum models.

A new Google-based infotainment system brings welcome improvements to the Explorer’s technology interface.

The Explorer’s broad-shouldered styling has aged well, and the 2025 updates — including a revised grille and new LED lighting — keep it looking fresh.

Interior quality remains a mixed bag, with some materials feeling less premium than key rivals offer. Ford’s reliability ratings also continue to trail segment leaders.

Yet the Explorer’s fundamental appeal endures because it nails the basics that matter most to families: space, comfort, capability and style.

The addition of cutting-edge tech like BlueCruise and Google integration only strengthens its position as a segment leader.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line ($44,615). Options: Premium paint ($495), premium package ($1,360) Price as tested (including $1,595 destination charge): $48,065

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 119.1 in.
Length: 198.7 in.
Width: 78.9 in.
Height: 69.6 in.
Engine: 2.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder (300 hp, 310 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
MPG: 18 city, 25 highway

RATINGS

Style: 8
Performance: 8
Price: 9
Handling: 7
Ride: 9
Comfort: 8
Quality: 7
Overall: 7

WHY BUY IT?

If you want a three-row SUV that does everything well while offering some of the most advanced driver assistance features available, the Explorer deserves a spot on your shopping list.