Performance and Powertrain Options

The 2026 Ford Explorer has two turbocharged EcoBoost engine options offering great power and efficiency. The standard 2.3-liter inline-four Turbocharged EcoBoost engine generates 300 horsepower, providing strong acceleration for daily use and achieving up to 29 MPG on the highway with rear-wheel drive. For improved performance, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost engine produces 400 horsepower, available on the Tremor and ST trims. Both engines include Auto Start-Stop Technology and are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting. Drivers can select between rear-wheel drive and full-time automatic four-wheel drive, with the Tremor trim adding a mechanical limited-slip differential for better off-road performance. The Explorer's 119.1-inch wheelbase ensures a stable, confident ride whether you're commuting through Williamsville or exploring tough terrain.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

Step into the 2026 Ford Explorer and you'll find a well-crafted cabin designed for passenger comfort and ease. It seats six or seven people, depending on the configuration, making it suitable for families of various sizes. The interior features multiple seat options, including cloth, ActiveX, Miko Suede, and premium leather surfaces across different trims. Most trims include heated front seats as standard, with heated and ventilated options available for year-round comfort. The second row can be configured with captain's chairs or a 35/30/35 split-bench, while the third row offers a 50-50 split-bench that folds flat for versatile cargo space. Some trims are equipped with multicontour seats featuring Active Motion technology, delivering outstanding support on long drives throughout Williamsville and beyond.

Exterior Design and Styling

The 2026 Ford Explorer commands attention on the road with its bold, athletic exterior design. Measuring 198.8 inches in length and 78.9 inches in width, this midsize SUV offers substantial proportions that convey strength and capability. LED headlamps with Auto High-Beam and Daytime Running Lights come standard, providing excellent visibility at night. Front fog lamps are available to enhance visibility in inclement weather. Wheel options range from 18-inch Sparkle Silver-Painted Aluminum on the Active trim to striking 21-inch Magnetite-Painted Aluminum wheels on performance-focused models. The Tremor trim features distinctive styling elements, including body-colored front bumpers with black inserts and dual tow hooks. Power-heated side mirrors with available power-folding functionality add convenience to the Explorer's impressive exterior package.

Advanced Safety Technologies

The 2026 Ford Explorer is equipped with a wide range of safety features aimed at safeguarding occupants and ensuring peace of mind during every trip. Standard safety systems include Collision Mitigation-Front, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), Lane-Keeping System with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go capabilities. The Safety Canopy System offers curtain airbags across the first, second, and third rows, complemented by dual-stage front airbags and seat-mounted side airbags for extra protection. Rear Cross-Traffic Braking helps avoid collisions when reversing out of parking spots, while Evasion Assist offers steering support in emergency situations. Additional safety features include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, driver monitoring alerts, and Emergency SOS Capability, ensuring thorough occupant safety in Williamsville.

Technology and Connectivity Features

The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a superior technology experience with its advanced infotainment and connectivity features. The dashboard features a 13.2-inch color LCD touchscreen with pinch-to-zoom and user-friendly controls. It comes standard with Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone integration. The available Bang & Olufsen B&O Sound System provides high-quality audio, with setups from 10 to 14 speakers, including a subwoofer. Ford Connect 5G Mobile Hotspot keeps passengers connected on the move, while the Integrated Navigation System with Voice Activation assists drivers in unfamiliar areas. Some trims include BlueCruise, a hands-free driving technology, available with a 90-day free trial, enabling relaxed highway driving in Williamsville and beyond.

Active

• 2.3-liter inline-four Turbocharged EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower
• 18-inch Sparkle Silver-Painted Aluminum wheels
• Heated cloth captain's chairs with 10-way power driver seat
• 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google integration
• Lane Centering and rear parking sensors

Tremor

• Available 3.0-liter inline-four Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost with 400 horsepower
• 18-inch High Gloss Black-Painted Aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires
• Mechanical limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel drive
• Heated/ventilated Miko Suede captain's chairs
• Aerial View Camera System and B&O Sound System

Platinum

• 2.3-liter inline-four Turbocharged EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower
• 20-inch Luster Nickel-Painted Aluminum wheels
• ActiveX heated/ventilated captain's chairs with multicontour and Active Motion
• BlueCruise 90-day free trial and directionally adaptive headlamps
• B&O Sound System with 980 watts and 14 speakers

ST-Line

• 2.3-liter inline-four Turbocharged EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower
• 20-inch Ebony-Painted Machined Aluminum wheels
• Heated leather steering wheel and heated cloth captain's chairs
• Aerial View Camera System and front/rear parking sensors
• B&O Sound System with 10 speakers including subwoofer

ST

• 3.0-liter six-cylinder Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost with 400 horsepower
• 21-inch Magnetite-Painted Aluminum wheels
• 10-speed automatic with SelectShift and paddle shifters
• Heated/ventilated Miko Suede captain's chairs with ST logo
• BlueCruise 90-day free trial and power-folding mirrors