2026 Ford Explorer Review
2026 Explorer Snapshot
| MSRP | Ranging from $38,465–$54,905 |
| Seating | 6–7 seats |
| Powertrain | Gas, Hybrid |
| Drivetrain | Four- or Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Max Horsepower | 400 horsepower |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Basic Warranty | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
What's New for the Explorer in 2026?
Following the 2025 mid-year refresh with subtle exterior and cabin updates, the main addition for 2026 is the off-road-ready Tremor trim.
The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is built for the back roads, featuring an off-road-tuned suspension and a Torsen Limited-Slip Rear Axle to improve traction and stability. The off-road model comes equipped with all-terrain tires and an available 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Trim Levels
The new Ford Explorer for 2026 is available in six trim levels, ranging from the base Active 100A to the top-of-the-line Ford Explorer ST. Each trim level offers different standard features, ranging from exterior paint color options to advanced technology like BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
Below, we've outlined the 2026 Explorer trims and their starting price points.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A | Starting at $38,465 |
| 2026 Ford Explorer Active | Starting at $40,585 |
| 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line | Starting at $45,155 |
| 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor | Starting at $48,965 |
| 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum | Starting at $50,965 |
| 2026 Ford Explorer ST | Starting at $54,905 |
Engine Options & Performance
When it comes to power, the new Ford Explorer for sale offers two choices: the 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 and the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6.
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4
- Standard on Active 100A, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum
- More than enough power for everyday driving
3.0L EcoBoost® V6
- Standard on the Explorer ST
- Available on the off-road Tremor model
- Turbocharged V6 for maximum performance
The new Ford Explorer can deliver off-road performance and haul heavy loads with ease. Stay in control on any terrain with six available drive modes:
The 2026 Ford Explorer towing capacity is an impressive 5,000 pounds, thanks to the standard Class III Tow Package. Standard across all models, the Tow Package includes a hitch, trailer wiring harness, and a trailer sway control system.
Ready to get behind the wheel of the 2026 Explorer?
Shop Explorer InventoryExterior Design
The exterior design of the new Ford Explorer seeks to accomplish two tasks: stand out in a crowd and offer luxury features. Needless to say, both tasks have been checked off the list.
LED headlamps and taillamps light your way while simultaneously giving the SUV's exterior a high-class feel. Each grille is designed specifically for its model, providing a unique personal touch to every trim. Take your own personal style even further by customizing your Explorer's exterior paint color and wheels.
The 2026 Ford Explorer colors are subdued in tone, but easily stand out amongst a crowd. Exterior paint colors include:
Wheel options will vary in look and feel, with options including:
Other exterior features that take the Explorer to the next level include the power liftgate and panoramic fixed-glass roof with power sunshade.
Cabin Interior
The Ford Explorer interior has mastered the art of practicality and poise, designed for both an evening out and the annual family road trip.
- Seating for up to 7 — comfort within every row, from durable cloth in Dark Space Gray to massaging leather-trimmed seats in Mojave Dusk or Salt Crystal Gray
- Flexible second-row configuration — choose between 35/30/35 bench seats or captain's chairs with E-Z Entry and armrest (captain's chairs reduce capacity by one seat)
- PowerFold third-row seats — available on select models for easy access to 85 cu-ft of maximum cargo space — enough to store 31 carry-on suitcases
Technology
Ford technology was built for the road ahead, as well as for the moments of reflection and pause.
- 10- or 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system — with subwoofer and available Sound Stage to amplify your in-cabin experience
- 8 USB ports scattered throughout the cabin, plus three 12-volt power sockets to keep everyone powered up
- 13.2-inch LCD center touchscreen — featuring Ford Digital Experience software for streaming YouTube, browsing the internet, and playing games while parked
Test Drive the All-New 2026 Ford Explorer for Sale Near You Today!
Whether you're drawn to the rugged capability of the new Tremor trim or the high-performance thrills of the Ford Explorer ST, the 2026 lineup offers a perfect balance of power, luxury, and advanced technology.
Visit Santee Ford to explore our inventory of new Ford Explorer models, and take the SUV for a test drive today!