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What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer

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What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer

Asheville Ford - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer

The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to be one of the most well-rounded three-row SUVs for drivers who want capability, technology, comfort, and confident everyday usability in one smart package. Built with a broad range of lifestyles in mind, the Explorer offers seating for up to seven, strong EcoBoost engine choices, available four-wheel drive, and a trim lineup that moves from practical and refined to rugged, luxurious, and performance-focused. For families, commuters, weekend travelers, and drivers who simply want more space without giving up enjoyable performance, the Explorer remains a compelling option.

At Asheville Ford, we know SUV shoppers often compare space, safety features, towing ability, comfort, and long-term usability before choosing a vehicle. The 2027 Explorer checks those boxes with a flexible interior, a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, available hands-free highway driving assistance, and multiple models tailored to different priorities. Whether you are researching an efficient family SUV, a sportier daily driver, or a more adventure-ready three-row model, the Explorer lineup offers meaningful choices without making the shopping process feel overwhelming.

A Confident Three-Row SUV With Everyday Flexibility

The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed around the realities of daily life. It offers three rows of seating, with standard second-row captain’s chairs on every model. For drivers who want maximum passenger capacity, a second-row bench seat is available on select models, increasing seating capacity to seven. This setup makes the Explorer especially useful for families, carpooling, road trips, school activities, and any situation where extra passenger space matters.

Cargo flexibility is another major strength. With all seats in place, the Explorer provides practical room behind the third row for groceries, backpacks, sports bags, or smaller luggage. Fold the rear seats down, and the cabin opens into a much larger cargo area. Active and ST-Line models offer up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume, while Tremor, Platinum, and ST models offer up to 85.3 cubic feet. That means the Explorer can handle both passenger duty and cargo hauling with ease.

2027 Ford Explorer Models and Personality

One of the best parts of the 2027 Explorer lineup is how distinct each model feels. Instead of offering only minor trim differences, Ford gives shoppers options that match specific driving preferences, design tastes, and feature priorities.

  • Explorer Active: A smart entry point with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, heated front seats, Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology, and practical everyday comfort.
  • Explorer ST-Line: A sport-inspired model with unique interior accents, a 360-degree camera, red stitching, and a premium B&O Sound System with 10 speakers, including a subwoofer.
  • Explorer Tremor: A more rugged option with off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, underbody protection, and an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine.
  • Explorer Platinum: A premium model focused on comfort, upscale materials, available massaging front seats, available panoramic Vista Roof, and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance.
  • Explorer ST: A performance-focused SUV with a standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and a bold road presence.

This range makes it easier to find an Explorer that feels personal. Some drivers may value the practicality and comfort of the Active model. Others may prefer the athletic design of ST-Line, the rugged attitude of Tremor, the elevated feel of Platinum, or the performance edge of ST.

Powertrain Options and Performance

The 2027 Ford Explorer offers two EcoBoost engine choices. Most models come standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-four engine rated at 300 horsepower. This engine is a strong fit for drivers who want responsive acceleration, confident merging, and balanced daily performance without stepping into the higher-output V6. It powers Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum models as the standard engine.

For drivers who want more muscle, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is standard on the Explorer ST and available on Tremor and Platinum models. This engine delivers up to 385 horsepower in many configurations, with certain ratings varying by state and emissions equipment. The V6 adds a stronger sense of urgency and makes the Explorer feel especially capable when passing, towing, or driving with a full cabin.

Properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. That capability makes it a strong match for many weekend needs, including small trailers, recreational equipment, or light utility towing. Available Intelligent 4WD adds another layer of confidence, especially for drivers who want improved traction on changing road surfaces or unpaved routes.

Technology That Feels Useful, Not Distracting

The 2027 Explorer puts a strong focus on technology that supports the drive. The Ford Digital Experience brings familiar apps, connectivity, and interface design into the cabin in a way that feels modern and intuitive. Rather than adding technology simply for the sake of it, Ford organizes key functions around convenience, entertainment, navigation, and driver confidence.

Available Ford BlueCruise is one of the standout technology features. On compatible highways, BlueCruise can assist with steering, braking, acceleration, and lane centering while the driver keeps eyes on the road. This feature can help reduce fatigue during longer highway drives and adds a premium feel to the Explorer’s technology package. BlueCruise is equipped on select models and available depending on configuration.

Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology also plays an important role across the lineup. Features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and other confidence-focused systems are designed to help support awareness behind the wheel. These technologies do not replace attentive driving, but can make everyday travel feel more composed and less demanding.

Interior Comfort and Premium Details

Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer balances durability, comfort, and upscale design. Seating materials vary by model and package, with options such as cloth, ActiveX, Miko Suede, and leather-trimmed surfaces. This lets shoppers choose an interior that matches personal priorities, whether that means easy-clean practicality, sporty texture, or premium softness.

Higher trims and available packages add impressive comfort features. Platinum models can be equipped with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. Available ambient lighting enhances the cabin atmosphere, while the available panoramic Vista Roof with power shade gives the interior a brighter, more open feel. For music lovers, the available B&O Sound System brings crisp, immersive audio to the drive.

The Explorer also does a good job of keeping practicality front and center. Wide-opening doors, flexible seat configurations, and generous cargo space help make daily use simpler. Whether loading groceries, helping kids into the second row, packing luggage, or folding seats for larger items, the cabin is designed to adapt quickly.

Exterior Design and New 2027 Updates

The 2027 Explorer has a confident exterior design that changes character depending on the model. Active feels clean and versatile. ST-Line adds a sportier visual attitude. Tremor looks more rugged and trail-ready. Platinum leans upscale, while ST brings the most aggressive performance-inspired look. This variety helps the Explorer appeal to many different tastes without losing its recognizable SUV identity.

For 2027, Ford adds fresh visual and feature choices across the lineup. New color options include Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. The ST model also offers a new Sinister Package with Gloss Black-painted wheels, distinctive accent lighting, and black-outlined ST badging. For shoppers who prefer a smoother roof profile, select models offer a Slick Roof Conversion option that removes the standard roof rails.

Why the 2027 Explorer Makes Sense for Local Drivers

For SUV shoppers serving Fletcher, Burnsville, and Candler, the 2027 Ford Explorer offers a practical blend of space, power, comfort, and technology. Its three-row cabin supports family life, while its available performance and towing strength add confidence for more demanding plans. The lineup also gives shoppers room to prioritize value, premium comfort, rugged capability, or sporty handling.

The Explorer stands out because it does not force a single definition of what a three-row SUV should be. It can be a family vehicle, a comfortable commuter, a road-trip companion, a light-duty tow vehicle, or a stylish performance SUV depending on the model and equipment selected. That versatility is a major reason the Explorer continues to earn attention from shoppers who want one SUV that can handle many roles.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How many people can the 2027 Ford Explorer seat?

The 2027 Explorer seats six people with standard second-row captain’s chairs. Select models can be configured with a second-row bench seat, increasing capacity to seven.

How much cargo space does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer?

Active and ST-Line models offer up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Tremor, Platinum, and ST models offer up to 85.3 cubic feet. All models provide 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row with all seats in place.

What engines are available in the 2027 Ford Explorer?

The 2027 Explorer offers a 2.3L EcoBoost inline-four engine and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. The 2.3L engine is standard on most models, while the 3.0L V6 is standard on ST and available on Tremor and Platinum.

Can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow?

Yes. When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a capable choice for many small trailers and recreational towing needs.

Which 2027 Ford Explorer model is best?

The best model depends on priorities. Active is practical and well-equipped, ST-Line adds sporty style, Tremor focuses on rugged capability, Platinum emphasizes premium comfort, and ST delivers the strongest performance character.

Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Makes Sense for Waynesville, NC-Area Adventure and Daily Driving

Asheville Ford - Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Makes Sense for Waynesville, NC-Area Adventure and Daily Driving The 2027 Ford Explorer® lineup gives SUV shoppers several strong directions, but the Explorer® Tremor® deserves special attention for drivers who want a three-row SUV with added confidence beyond the pavement. Around Waynesville, NC, daily driving can mean more than a simple commute. Roads can climb, curve, narrow, and shift from town traffic to rural routes quickly. For shoppers who want family-friendly seating, useful cargo space, and hardware designed for more demanding terrain, the Explorer® Tremor® offers a compelling blend of everyday comfort and adventure-ready capability. What makes the Tremor® especially interesting is that it does not abandon the practical qualities that make the Explorer® so appealing in the first place. It remains a three-row SUV with standard second-row captain’s chairs, modern Ford technology, and flexible cargo space. At the same time, it adds equipment that sets it apart from many conventional midsize SUVs, including an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, front and rear underbody deflector plates, and a model-exclusive Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. That combination helps give the Tremor® a more capable personality without turning it into a specialty vehicle that feels out of place on normal roads. For Waynesville-area shoppers, that balance is important. A family SUV may need to carry passengers during the week, handle supplies from local stores, and still feel ready for a gravel driveway, trailhead access point, or mountain-area getaway. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® answers those needs with a setup that feels purposeful. It is not just about rugged styling. The Tremor® brings mechanical features that support traction, clearance, and durability in situations where an ordinary three-row SUV may feel less prepared. Built for More Than the Commute The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® starts with a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, and the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine gives shoppers another level of power. That matters for drivers who regularly travel through elevation changes around Haywood County or who want stronger passing confidence on highways connecting Waynesville, Asheville, and surrounding mountain communities. The Explorer® platform already has a reputation for confident road manners, and Tremor® adds a more adventurous layer to that foundation. One of the biggest advantages of the Tremor® is its off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height. In everyday terms, that means the SUV is designed to feel more comfortable tackling uneven surfaces and rougher access roads than many traditional family SUVs. Add in underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates, and the Tremor® becomes a smart choice for shoppers who spend time near campgrounds, mountain cabins, gravel lanes, or outdoor recreation spots where road surfaces can be less predictable. Suspension: Off-road-tuned with increased ride height Traction: Torsen® limited-slip rear axle Protection: Front and rear underbody deflector plates Power: Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine Utility: Three-row seating and flexible cargo space Why the Torsen® Limited-Slip Rear Axle Matters The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle is one of the most meaningful Tremor® features because it supports traction when road or trail conditions are uneven. In simple terms, it helps distribute power in a way that can improve grip when one rear wheel has less traction than the other. For Waynesville-area drivers who may encounter steep driveways, loose gravel, wet leaves, dirt roads, or uneven access routes, that extra confidence can be valuable. Many three-row SUVs are designed primarily for pavement, and while that works for some drivers, it can leave outdoor-focused shoppers wanting more. The Explorer® Tremor® fills that gap. It gives drivers the people-moving flexibility of a midsize SUV while adding hardware that supports the kind of mixed-surface driving common around Western North Carolina. It is the type of SUV that can feel comfortable near downtown Waynesville, practical for errands, and better prepared when the pavement ends. Comfort and Technology Still Matter Capability is only part of the story. A vehicle also needs to be comfortable enough for daily use, especially when it is serving as the main family SUV. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® keeps the cabin experience practical and welcoming. Like other Explorer® models, it features three rows of seating, and PowerFold® third-row seats are available on Tremor® for easier cargo flexibility. That makes it simpler to shift between carrying passengers and loading gear. The Explorer® also benefits from the Ford Digital Experience, which brings familiar apps and connected functionality into the cabin. For shoppers comparing SUVs, that kind of interface can make a difference over years of ownership. Navigation support, entertainment access, and vehicle settings are easier to manage when the technology feels intuitive. The available Sun & Sound Package on Tremor® models with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine adds another premium layer, including an upgraded B&O® Sound System, massaging front seats, and a power moonroof. Cabin Layout: Three rows for family and passenger flexibility Third Row: Available PowerFold® third-row seats on Tremor® Audio Upgrade: Available B&O® Sound System through Sun & Sound Package Comfort Upgrade: Available massaging front seats through Sun & Sound Package Open-Air Feel: Available power moonroof through Sun & Sound Package A Strong Fit for Waynesville, NC Drivers Waynesville drivers often need a vehicle that feels composed in several different environments. A trip toward Asheville may involve highway driving. A run through town may require easy maneuverability and good visibility. A weekend plan may call for extra cargo space and more traction confidence. The 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® is appealing because it does not feel limited to one role. It is family-friendly, technology-forward, and mechanically prepared for more adventurous use. Compared with many competitors, the Explorer® Tremor® stands out because its rugged features are more than visual. Some SUVs add dark trim, roof rails, or all-terrain-looking design cues without much functional hardware underneath. The Tremor® goes further with a specific limited-slip rear axle, underbody deflector plates, and suspension tuning that supports rougher-road capability. For shoppers who care about substance, that distinction matters. At Asheville Ford, we can help shoppers compare the Tremor® to other 2027 Ford Explorer® trims. If your needs lean toward luxury, the Platinum™ may be a better match. If performance is the top priority, the ST brings a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and a standard 3.0L EcoBoost® engine. If you want the most adventure-ready personality in the lineup, the Tremor® deserves a close look. Our goal is to help you match the SUV to your real driving habits rather than simply choose the trim with the longest feature list. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® have three rows? Yes. 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Start Your Explorer® Tremor® Search with Asheville Ford If the 2027 Ford Explorer® Tremor® sounds like the right fit, Asheville Ford is ready to help you take the next step. You can browse inventory online, value your trade, apply for financing, and schedule a test drive with our team. We can also answer questions about available Intelligent 4WD, cargo space, seating configurations, available packages, and service support. For Waynesville-area shoppers looking for a three-row SUV with genuine capability and everyday comfort, the Explorer® Tremor® is well worth a closer look. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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Is the 2027 Ford Explorer or 2027 Chevrolet Traverse the Better Three-Row SUV for Waynesville, NC Families?

Asheville Ford - Is the 2027 Ford Explorer or 2027 Chevrolet Traverse the Better Three-Row SUV for Waynesville, NC Families? For many shoppers around Waynesville, NC, the question is simple: which three-row SUV is the better everyday fit, the Ford Explorer® SUV or the Chevrolet Traverse? Both are modern family vehicles with strong reputations, flexible seating, useful cargo room, advanced safety features, and available hands-free driving technology. The difference becomes clearer when drivers look beyond size and ask how each SUV feels on mountain roads, how much performance flexibility is available, and how well the vehicle can adapt to different lifestyles over several years of ownership. The Chevrolet Traverse is a strong option for shoppers who prioritize maximum interior room. It offers seating for up to eight, best-in-class cargo volume according to Chevrolet, and a standard 17.7-inch touchscreen display. It also includes over 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, plus an available Z71 model with off-road-oriented hardware and an RS model with Super Cruise® hands-free driver assistance technology. Those are real strengths. However, the Ford Explorer makes an especially strong case for Western North Carolina drivers because it gives shoppers more variety in performance, traction, comfort, and trim personality. Which SUV Feels Better for Mountain Driving? Mountain driving places different demands on an SUV than flat city commuting. Roads near Waynesville can include quick elevation changes, winding stretches, rural two-lane routes, and highway grades where confident acceleration matters. This is where Explorer stands out. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine delivers 300 hp, which gives the Explorer a strong foundation for daily travel. For shoppers who want more power, the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 raises the level of response and confidence. This engine is standard on Explorer ST and available on Tremor® and Platinum™ models, giving drivers a high-output choice that the Traverse lineup does not match. The Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine across its lineup, paired with an 8-speed transmission. It is built to be capable and practical, and Chevrolet does offer an Advanced Twin-Clutch AWD System on the Z71. Still, Ford gives shoppers a wider mechanical spread. Explorer can be configured with available Intelligent 4WD, and the Tremor® model adds off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, underbody protection, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. For drivers who split time between town errands, highway travel, gravel driveways, and weekend routes into the mountains, that added mechanical depth is valuable. How Do the Interiors Compare? Interior space is often the first comparison point for families. The Traverse has an advantage in maximum cargo volume and can seat up to eight passengers when properly configured. That makes it appealing for larger households or anyone who regularly fills every seat. Explorer seats six or seven, depending on configuration, with standard second-row captain’s chairs and an available second-row bench on most models. Maximum cargo volume reaches up to 85.8 cu ft on Active and ST-Line models, with 16.3 cu ft behind the third row when all seats are in place. Where Explorer shines is in the way it blends comfort, technology, and upscale details. Available seating materials include cloth, Miko® Suede, ActiveX®, and leather, depending on trim. Platinum™ models can offer heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats with leather inserts, while available multicontour massaging seats and immersive ambient lighting help create a more refined environment. The Ford Digital Experience also adds a connected, intuitive feel for drivers who want familiar apps and vehicle functions presented in a clean, modern interface. Key Advantages of the Ford Explorer Performance range: Explorer offers a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, while Traverse uses one turbocharged engine family. Specialized trims: Explorer includes Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinum™, and ST models, giving shoppers more ways to choose the right personality. Trail-ready hardware: Explorer Tremor® offers off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, increased ride height, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. Sport-focused engineering: Explorer ST adds sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21-inch wheels. Premium comfort: Available massaging front seats, leather seating surfaces, ambient lighting, and a panoramic Vista Roof® with power shade elevate the cabin. What About Technology and Driver Assistance? Both SUVs offer advanced technology, but their approaches differ. Chevrolet highlights its standard 17.7-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, Google built-in, OnStar®, and available Super Cruise®. Traverse also promotes over 20 standard safety and driver assistance features, including systems such as Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Blind Zone Steering Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking. For families, that level of standard safety content is reassuring. Ford answers with Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology, available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, available 360-degree camera, the Ford Digital Experience, and available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers including subwoofer on select models. BlueCruise is especially useful for longer highway stretches because it can help control steering, braking, and acceleration on compatible highways while the driver keeps eyes on the road. For commuters heading between Haywood County and Asheville, or families taking longer interstate trips, that kind of driver-assist support can make travel feel more relaxed. Which SUV Is Better for Towing and Weekend Gear? Both SUVs are rated for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, so shoppers who need to tow small trailers, recreational equipment, or light utility loads will find capability in either model. The difference is that Explorer pairs its towing strength with multiple powertrain personalities. A driver who wants an everyday family SUV can choose the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine. A driver who wants stronger passing power or a more confident feel on steep grades can consider the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6. The Traverse deserves recognition for its cargo-first design. Its 98 cu ft maximum cargo volume is helpful for bulky items, and the AutoSense Power Liftgate plus available power-folding seating features add convenience. Explorer counters with practical cargo space, available PowerFold® third-row seats on select models, and a cabin that can transition smoothly from school pickup to trailhead parking to a polished night out. For many Waynesville-area drivers, that balance of utility and personality is what makes Explorer feel more complete. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the Ford Explorer more powerful than the Chevrolet Traverse? Yes, when comparing available power. Explorer offers a standard 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 rated up to 385 hp in the provided configuration. Traverse uses a turbocharged 2.5L engine across its lineup. Does the Chevrolet Traverse have more cargo space? Yes. Chevrolet lists the Traverse with 98 cu ft of maximum cargo volume, while the Explorer offers up to 85.8 cu ft depending on model. Shoppers who want maximum cargo volume may appreciate the Traverse, but those who want stronger performance variety and more specialized trims may prefer the Explorer. Which SUV is better for drivers around Waynesville, NC? The Explorer is an excellent fit for Waynesville-area roads because it offers available Intelligent 4WD, an available high-output EcoBoost® V6, Tremor® off-road equipment, and ST performance hardware. That makes it especially appealing for drivers who want confidence on grades, curves, highways, and rural routes. Do both SUVs offer hands-free driving technology? Yes. Explorer offers available Ford BlueCruise, while Traverse offers available Super Cruise®. Both systems are designed to support hands-free highway driving under proper conditions, with the driver remaining attentive. The Bottom Line for Three-Row SUV Shoppers If the top priority is maximum seating and cargo volume, the Chevrolet Traverse is easy to understand. It is roomy, practical, and packed with family-friendly features. But if the goal is to find a three-row SUV with more driving character, more powertrain flexibility, and more trim-specific capability, the Ford Explorer is the stronger choice. It can be comfortable and premium, rugged and trail-ready, or sporty and energetic, depending on the model selected. For shoppers around Waynesville, NC, that flexibility matters. Local driving can include neighborhood streets, interstate travel, steep climbs, tight curves, and weekend getaways into the mountains. Explorer is built to feel confident in more of those situations, while still delivering the seating, cargo space, safety technology, and connected features families expect. That is why many shoppers comparing these two SUVs should put the Ford Explorer at the top of the test-drive list. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

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How Available Ford BlueCruise Helps 2027 Ford Explorer Drivers Around Candler, NC

Asheville Ford - How Available Ford BlueCruise Helps 2027 Ford Explorer Drivers Around Candler, NC For many Candler, NC drivers, a three-row SUV needs to do more than provide extra seats. It needs to feel composed on I-40, easy to manage through Asheville traffic, comfortable on family trips, and smart enough to support long stretches behind the wheel. That is where the 2027 Ford Explorer® becomes especially interesting. Its available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assistance adds a modern layer of convenience for compatible highways, while Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist technology supports confidence during everyday travel. The result is an SUV that feels well matched to the varied driving routines common across Western North Carolina. BlueCruise is not about taking the driver out of the drive. It is designed to assist with steering, braking, acceleration, and lane centering on compatible highways while the driver keeps eyes on the road ahead. That distinction matters. Around Candler, where a typical week can include commuting toward Asheville, heading west toward Canton, or traveling regional highways for work, school, appointments, or recreation, a feature that helps reduce driving fatigue can be valuable. The 2027 Explorer® also backs that technology with a roomy cabin, confident powertrain choices, available Intelligent 4WD, and three rows of seating, so the benefit is part of a bigger ownership story. At Asheville Ford, we help shoppers understand how available driver-assist features fit real daily routines, not just feature lists. As a dealership serving Candler, Canton, and Waynesville, we know many local customers compare SUVs based on comfort, capability, technology, and long-term usability. The Explorer® makes that comparison easier because it combines available BlueCruise with practical strengths like up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space on Active and ST-Line models, available seating for up to seven passengers depending on configuration, and an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine on select trims. What BlueCruise Adds to the Explorer Driving Experience Available BlueCruise helps the Explorer® feel more relaxed during compatible highway driving. When active in a designated hands-free zone, the system can assist with steering, braking, acceleration, and centering the vehicle in the lane. The driver remains responsible and must keep eyes on the road, but the assistance can make longer drives feel less demanding. For Candler-area drivers who regularly travel along major highways, that support may become one of the most appreciated features in the vehicle. It is also important to look at BlueCruise as part of the broader Explorer® technology package. The Ford Digital Experience brings familiar apps and connected functionality into the cabin, helping drivers and passengers stay better organized. Available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® audio adds premium sound quality on select trims. Camera technology, including a 360-degree camera on ST-Line, can help with parking lots, driveways, and tight spaces. Together, these features make the Explorer feel like a modern family command center rather than a traditional utility vehicle. Highway Support: Available BlueCruise assists with compatible hands-free highway driving while the driver keeps eyes on the road Lane Confidence: The system helps keep the Explorer centered in the lane during supported use Speed Assistance: BlueCruise can help manage acceleration and braking in compatible conditions Driver Focus: The driver remains attentive, making the feature supportive rather than substitutive Why This Matters for Candler, NC Driving Candler drivers often deal with a mix of road types. A single day can include neighborhood streets, sloped driveways, busy commercial areas, and highway miles toward Asheville or nearby towns. The 2027 Explorer® is designed for that kind of variety. Available Intelligent 4WD can add confidence when traction needs change, while selectable drive modes help tailor the vehicle to different conditions. The available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine on Tremor® and Platinum™, along with the standard 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 on ST, gives shoppers a stronger performance option when power is a priority. BlueCruise becomes especially meaningful because highway comfort often affects how fresh a driver feels after a trip. A three-row SUV may carry children, coworkers, luggage, sports gear, pets, or home-improvement supplies, and the driver still needs a calm, confident experience up front. By reducing some of the repetitive inputs associated with compatible highway travel, available BlueCruise can help make the Explorer feel more refined and less tiring on longer routes. Explorer Trims with Technology Appeal The 2027 Explorer® lineup gives shoppers several ways to prioritize technology. Explorer® Active includes Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, and heated front-row seats. ST-Line adds a 360-degree camera, unique cloth-trimmed seating with red stitching, and a B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers, including a subwoofer. Platinum™ elevates comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats with leather inserts, plus BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped with an included plan. ST brings the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped. That variety helps online shoppers match features to actual priorities. A driver focused on a well-equipped everyday SUV may prefer Active or ST-Line. A shopper wanting premium comfort with advanced driver-assist technology may lean toward Platinum™. A performance-minded driver may find ST especially compelling. A driver who wants more rugged hardware can compare Tremor®, which offers a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates. Active: Strong starting point with 2.3L EcoBoost® engine and Ford Co-Pilot360® technology ST-Line: Style-focused choice with 360-degree camera and upgraded sound Platinum™: Premium comfort with BlueCruise equipped and available panoramic Vista Roof® ST: Performance-oriented model with BlueCruise equipped and sport-tuned hardware Tremor®: Adventure-ready trim with off-road-tuned suspension and added underbody protection How to Decide if BlueCruise Is Right for You The best way to evaluate BlueCruise is to think about driving patterns. If a shopper spends most time on short local errands, other Explorer® strengths such as seating, cargo space, camera visibility, and available 4WD may matter most. If highway driving is a regular part of life, BlueCruise can become a major advantage. Candler-area commuters, regional travelers, and families who often head out for day trips may appreciate the added support during longer highway sections. It is also worth considering the complete ownership experience. The Explorer® offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, which is useful for small trailers and recreation gear. Cargo capacity reaches up to 85.8 cu ft on Active and ST-Line models, supporting home projects, luggage, and bulky items. Seating for six is standard with second-row captain’s chairs, while an available second-row bench seat on select models allows seating for up to seven. BlueCruise may be the feature that gets attention, but the Explorer’s total package makes it a practical SUV for local families and active drivers. Frequently Asked Questions: Is BlueCruise standard on every 2027 Ford Explorer®? BlueCruise is available or equipped on select 2027 Explorer® models. Platinum™ and ST are listed with BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped, while shoppers should confirm exact features by trim and configuration. Does BlueCruise mean the Explorer drives itself? No. BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving assistance feature for compatible roads, but the driver must keep eyes on the road and remain responsible for vehicle operation at all times. Which Explorer® features pair well with BlueCruise? Features such as Ford Co-Pilot360®, Adaptive Cruise Control, the Ford Digital Experience, available Intelligent 4WD, and available premium seating all help create a more comfortable and confidence-inspiring drive. Is the 2027 Explorer® a good fit for Candler, NC drivers? Yes. Its three-row flexibility, strong engine options, available Intelligent 4WD, useful towing capability, and advanced technology make it well-suited for Candler commutes, family travel, and regional driving across Western North Carolina. The 2027 Ford Explorer® gives Candler-area shoppers a thoughtful mix of strength and sophistication. Available BlueCruise is one of its most forward-looking features, but the value goes deeper than a single technology. With multiple trims, two EcoBoost® engine choices, available 4WD, generous cargo space, and a cabin designed for daily comfort, the Explorer is built for real life in the mountains and beyond. For shoppers comparing three-row SUVs online, it remains one of the most complete choices in its class. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information