2026 Ford Explorer

The Explorer lineup begins with Active, which is equipped with a 13.2-in touchscreen, a 12.3-in digital instrument cluster, Ford Digital Experience, tri-zone climate control, and Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+. Other available features include heated front seats, a power liftgate, Active Noise Cancellation, and additional comfort features. ST-Line adds black exterior accents, unique styling details, red interior stitching, a heated steering wheel, and a 10-speaker B&O® audio system. Its sport-inspired appearance gives the Explorer a more dynamic presence while preserving everyday practicality. New for 2026, Tremor expands the Explorer's capabilities off-road. Standard all-terrain tires, unique suspension tuning, tow hooks, underbody protection, and a TORSEN® limited-slip rear differential make it the most adventure-focused Explorer in the lineup. ST delivers performance credentials with aggressive styling and Ford's powerful twin-turbocharged V6 engine. At the top of the range, Platinum adds premium materials, sophisticated interior finishes, advanced driver-assistance technologies, and available multicontour seating.

Most Explorer models are powered by a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine producing 300 hp and 310 lbs.-ft. of torque. Paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, it provides strong acceleration and confident highway performance. ST® and select Tremor models upgrade to a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 generating 400 hp and 415 lbs.-ft. of torque. Properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs., making it capable of hauling boats, campers, and utility trailers with ease.

Built on a rear-wheel-drive-based architecture, the Explorer delivers balanced handling and composed road manners. Available Intelligent 4WD enhances traction during rain, snow, and changing road conditions. The new Tremor trim adds off-road capability, while ST models provide sharper responses and stronger acceleration. Combined with selectable drive modes and advanced chassis tuning, the Explorer adapts to any driving situation.

Inside, the Explorer combines practicality with comfort. Three rows provide seating for up to 7 passengers, while available second-row captain's chairs improve accessibility and comfort. Behind the first row, cargo capacity reaches up to 85.8 cu. ft., providing substantial room for luggage, sporting equipment, and family gear. Higher trims introduce ActiveX® and leather-trimmed seating surfaces, multicontour front seats with Active Motion®, heated second-row seating, ambient lighting, and enhanced sound insulation.

A standard 13.2-in touchscreen serves as the hub for Ford Digital Experience, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, wireless Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ functionality. A 12.3-in digital instrument cluster provides customizable vehicle information directly within the driver's view. Available BlueCruise® hands-free highway driving, a 360-degree camera system, premium B&O® audio, 5G connectivity, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability makes the Explorer among the most technologically advanced SUVs in its segment.

Every 2026 Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+. Standard technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Coverage, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Intersection Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, and Speed Sign Recognition. Higher trims add Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0 features such as a 360-degree camera, Reverse Brake Assist, Predictive Speed Assist, front parking sensors, and additional driver-assistance systems that help increase confidence during daily commuting, road trips, and towing.