- Comfy and ergonomically-sound cabin
- Available with a full-bodied V-6
- Praiseworthy tech
- Claustrophobic third row
- Nothing special to drive
- Not as polished as many competitors
2026 Ford Explorer – Overview
A long-standing staple in the mid-size SUV segment, the 2026 Ford Explorer remains a familiar choice for three-row family hauling. Following a much-needed mid-cycle refresh last year, its cabin now feels modern and spacious in the first two rows. The rear seats are suitable for children and fold flat when not in use, opening up a competitive amount of cargo space. Buyers can choose between a turbocharged four-cylinder or a twin-turbo V6, paired with either rear- or all-wheel drive, offering plenty of versatility. That said, the Explorer still falls short of the well-rounded appeal of competitors like the Mazda CX-90 and Kia Telluride, which feel more upscale while often costing less.
When Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Coming Out?
Ford has confirmed the 2026 Explorer will debut in late summer 2025, with deliveries expected shortly after. Early previews suggest Ford is keeping the SUV’s familiar styling but adding subtle refinements, new trims, and more technology features.
What’s New for 2026 Ford Explorer?
For 2026, the Explorer lineup welcomes a new Tremor trim. This off-road–focused model features a lifted suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, all-terrain tires, and unique 18-inch wheels. The rest of the lineup carries over last year’s mid-cycle refresh, which brought subtle exterior tweaks, upgraded interior design, and a revamped tech suite, leaving those models largely unchanged for 2026.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2026 Ford Explorer starts at $40,025 and climbs to $56,465, depending on trim and options.
| Trim | Starting MSRP (est.) |
|---|---|
| Active |
$40,025
|
| ST-Line |
$46,715
|
|
Tremor
|
$50,025
|
| Platinum |
$52,525
|
| ST |
$56,465
|
For most buyers, the ST-Line strikes the best balance. It offers the sporty styling cues of the ST while keeping the standard 300-hp turbo four-cylinder, all at a significantly lower price. The ST-Line comes with 20-inch painted alloy wheels (versus 18-inch on the Active), 5000-pound towing capacity, and access to features like BlueCruise and a black-painted roof, which aren’t available on the base Active. Inside, it includes a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, flat-bottom ST steering wheel, heated second-row seats, and power folding mirrors. Adding all-wheel drive for $2,000 is also recommended for better traction and handling.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The base Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims are powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The ST trim comes with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft, which is also optional on the Platinum. (All figures assume premium fuel.)
A 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard across the lineup, with all-wheel drive available. In our test drive, the Explorer felt much like its predecessor: composed and predictable, with confident handling. The ST’s V6 adds serious punch, making it genuinely quick and fun to drive.
0–60-MPH Times
The 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four provides the Explorer with adequate power for everyday driving. In our 2022 test of the now-discontinued Timberline trim, it reached 60 mph in 6.0 seconds.
For those seeking more excitement, the ST model delivers. Its 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, offering a noticeably quicker and more exhilarating driving experience.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The 2026 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. All trims come equipped with the Class III Towing Package, which includes a hitch, trailer wiring harness, and trailer sway control system for safer, easier towing.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy ratings for the 2026 Ford Explorer yet, but with minimal changes from last year, figures should remain similar. The most efficient 2025 model, a rear-wheel-drive turbo four, earned 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway; adding all-wheel drive reduces highway mileage by 2 mpg. The twin-turbo V6 version was rated at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, regardless of drivetrain.
In real-world testing, a 400-hp Explorer ST returned 25 mpg on our 75-mph highway route, while a four-cylinder AWD Explorer managed 28 mpg, slightly exceeding its EPA estimate. For the latest fuel economy details, check the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2026 Ford Explorer interior has long prioritized function over flair, but last year’s updates brought a more refined and comfortable cabin, with new color schemes and additional soft-touch materials on the dashboard, center console, and door panels.
Access to the standard third row is easy thanks to a power-assisted mechanism that moves the second-row seats with the push of a button. Once seated, however, taller children and adults may find the space cramped, as the seats sit relatively low. Competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas offer more comfortable third-row accommodations.
Cargo capacity is competitive: the Explorer fits four carry-on suitcases behind the third row and up to 31 carry-ons with both rear rows folded flat.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes standard with a 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen running Ford Digital Experience, which provides access to apps and services from Google and Amazon, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible devices. When the vehicle is parked, users can stream videos from platforms like YouTube, browse the internet, or play games via Google Play.
Connectivity is abundant, with eight USB ports (including two for third-row passengers) and three 12-volt power outlets. A 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system is standard on all trims except the base Active, delivering a premium listening experience throughout the cabin.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Every 2026 Ford Explorer comes equipped with a robust suite of standard driver-assistance technologies, with optional upgrades like self-parking assist. For detailed crash-test results, visit the (NHTSA) and (IIHS) websites.
Key safety features include:
-
Forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking
-
Blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross-traffic alert
-
Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
These features combine to provide confident, secure driving for families and daily commuters alike.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes with standard limited and powertrain warranties that are in line with most competitors, though complimentary scheduled maintenance is not included, unlike some Toyota and Chevrolet models.
-
Limited warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
-
Powertrain warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
-
Scheduled maintenance: Not included
2026 Ford Explorer Specifications
| Specification | 2026 Ford Explorer Base | Limited | ST | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L Turbo I4 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | Hybrid V6 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 400 hp | 400 hp | 318 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft | 322 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD / AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 21/28 mpg | 18/24 mpg | 18/24 mpg | 27/30 mpg |
| Seating | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Cargo Space | 18.2–87.8 cu ft | 18.2–87.8 cu ft | 18.2–87.8 cu ft | 18.2–87.8 cu ft |
| Towing | 5,300–7,300 lbs | 5,300–7,300 lbs | 5,300–7,300 lbs | 5,300–6,000 lbs |
Final Verdict
The 2026 Ford Explorer remains a solid choice in the midsize SUV segment. With updated styling, hybrid options, and a full suite of technology and safety features, it appeals to families, adventure seekers, and daily commuters alike. For those seeking reliability, comfort, and versatility, the Explorer continues to set the standard.
2026 Ford Explorer Videos
