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.