12/1 Test Review

I love my 2025 Ford Explorer Active! Being a lower trim model, there are not as many techy features (like sunroof, seat position memory buttons, etc.), but we knew that going in, and it doesn't bother us! The remote start features on both the Ford app and the key fob are great, especially with the Texas heat. The screen is very large, and having Apple CarPlay is a game-changer after driving an older car for many years. With our first baby on the way, we opted for captain's seats to allow for easier access to the third row. We're enjoying this so far! The trunk is spacious with the third row up or down. We tend to use it down for more room for grocery bags, etc., just because we rarely need the third row right now. The car drives so smoothly and has great safety features like lane assist and adaptive cruise control. A "base model luxury" that I am loving is that the lights are automatic, so I've never had to adjust my lights! :) Overall, the 2025 Ford Explorer Active is a great base model with many features that still impress me after driving an older vehicle for many years. We love this car, and it will be perfect for our family for many years to come!

Purchased this car after how much Kelly and Lizz rave about it as well as the sister model - the Nissan Pathfinder. Test drove the Pathfinder first and felt it was a little small. Also have read lots of reviews about brake issues with the Pathfinder but I really loved all the features/design so I dug into the QX60. This car has not disappointed! My only complaint is it's a gas guzzler (V6/premium gasoline) so this has not been fun with rising gas prices. However, it's a beautiful "mom" car and so fun to drive. I had a Rav4 previously and this doesn't feel much bigger when driving it but definitely has roomier 2nd row, 3rd row, and lots of cargo space with 3rd row down. Had added under floor storage too in the cargo area which is great. Decent size for 2 kids + husband + dog who don't travel very much. We did go to the beach for a week about 2 hours away and it was definitely not big enough to pack for all 4 humans + dog + beach essentials. However, for day to day activities and occasional weekend excursions it's perfect. Has lots of good kid features - car seat tilt, bench seat, ceiling vents, sun shads, and lots of cup holders. I purchased a bench seat which has been great. Mostly drive with 3rd row down. 3rd row is a little cramped when up but doable for relatively short distances w/ adults. Would be perfectly fine for older kids/teens. The App is great and love the remote start feature. Base model comes with lots of bonus features heated and ventilated front seats. This is my first time purchasing Infiniti and would definitely consider purchasing again in the future. Kelly and Lizz's reviews for this car has been spot on! Trust the professionals! :)

Pros Kid logistics are smooth I have a 2, 5, and 7-year-old. Two year old is rear facing in the second row (bucket seats), 5 and 7 year olds are front facing in the third row. • Wide second row with wide aisle • Third-row access is easy via car seat tilt or aisle • Car seat anchors are plentiful and accessible • High ride height makes buckling easy Platinum comfort features • Heated/ventilated front seats • Soft-close doors feel luxe • Quiet cabin for long drives to rinks, gymnastics, and school Excellent winter handling New Jersey winters + hockey practices = icy parking lots. • 4WD modes are intuitive • Snow mode is genuinely helpful • Big, stable platform for bad weather SYNC 4 • Rear passengers can control climate • Wireless CarPlay Cons SYNC 4 I HATE the giant iPad screen and climate control. Super clunky. Fuel economy is rough Real-world: 14–17 mpg around NJ. Between hockey, school, errands, and work, I feel it. It’s big Parking at crowded rinks, school pickup lines, and tight NJ lots can be annoying. • Long wheelbase • Wide turning radius • I rely on cameras constantly 2022 model-year quirks Because of supply chain issues, I didn’t get massaging seats or hands-free trunk opening Third row and trunk are are good, not great Because I use the third row daily, my trunk space is limited. I *can* fit my UppaBaby Vista double stroller, but I have to put the actual stroller seats in the cabin. TLDR; I love it but wish I got the max.