What to Know About the 2026 Ford Explorer

Asheville Ford – What to Know About the 2026 Ford Explorer

The 2026 Ford Explorer arrives with the confidence of a family favorite and the capability of a true do-it-all SUV. At Asheville Ford, our team helps local drivers match this versatile model to busy schedules, growing families, weekend getaways, and daily commutes — all with a buying experience rooted in straightforward guidance and test drives that focus on what matters to you. Proudly serving Fletcher, Burnsville, and Candler, we are ready to show you what makes the latest Explorer such a smart choice in this segment.

This generation keeps the Explorer formula intact — rear-wheel-drive architecture for balanced handling, available Intelligent 4WD for traction, and a lineup of trims that range from refined to rugged. Inside, the cabin is modern and intuitive, with connected tech, abundant passenger space, and clever storage solutions. And when it is time to bring more along, the Explorer’s strong towing capability and flexible cargo area have you covered.

Performance and capability at a glance

Power is a highlight, starting with the responsive 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. It delivers ample torque for passing and merging, plus confident acceleration even with a full cabin. For drivers who want a sportier feel or plan more off-pavement travel, an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is offered on select models for elevated performance. A smooth-shifting automatic transmission helps the Explorer feel refined in town and relaxed on the highway. When properly equipped, towing up to 5,000 lbs gives you room to bring small campers, boats, and utility trailers with ease. Selectable drive modes let you dial in throttle response and traction settings for varying conditions, and the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package on specific configurations is designed to help you hook up and move out with confidence.

• Engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 standard on most trims; available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on ST and Tremor
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; available Intelligent 4WD for enhanced traction
• Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped
• Trail readiness: Tremor adds an off-road tuned suspension, underbody protection, and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle
• Sport tuning: ST models feature a performance-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes

Interior space and comfort

The Explorer’s interior is built around people and practicality. Available seating for up to seven lets you bring the crew, while the third row is designed for easy ingress and egress. When you need space for cargo instead of passengers, fold the rear rows for expansive room — up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo volume. Materials feel upscale for the class, and available ambient lighting helps set the mood for evening drives or long road trips.

Comfort features are plentiful. Depending on trim, you can enjoy heated front-row seats, ventilated and massaging front-row seats, and thoughtful touches like a power liftgate to streamline loading. Higher trims elevate the cabin with leather inserts and a panoramic fixed glass roof that brightens the interior and enhances the sense of space.

Technology that simplifies the drive

From daily commutes to cross-state travel, the Explorer’s technology is designed to reduce hassle and increase confidence. Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ bundles popular driver-assist features — including Adaptive Cruise Control — to support smoother, more consistent driving. Available BlueCruise offers hands-free highway driving assistance on compatible roads, helping manage acceleration, braking, and steering while you keep your eyes on traffic. A 360-degree camera system available on select trims can make low-speed maneuvering and parking more intuitive. And with the Ford Digital Experience and the Ford Connectivity Package, in-vehicle entertainment, apps, and Wi-Fi can keep everyone engaged and productive while parked or on the go.

• Driver assists: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control and more
• Hands-free driving: Available BlueCruise for compatible divided highways
• Parking help: Available 360-degree camera enhances low-speed visibility
• In-vehicle apps: Ford Digital Experience supports streaming, games, and integrated services
• Connectivity: Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi hotspot capability and device integration

Which 2026 Explorer trim fits your lifestyle

The trim lineup makes it easy to prioritize what you value most — whether that is a compelling value, an off-road focus, or maximum luxury and performance. Here is a quick look at what stands out in each configuration, so you can start narrowing your options before a test drive:

• Explorer Active 100A: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, Co-Pilot360 Assist+, selectable drive modes, Class III Trailer Tow Package
• Explorer Active: Adds heated front-row seats and a power liftgate to the well-equipped base formula
• Explorer ST-Line: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 360-degree camera, unique sport styling, B&O Sound System with subwoofer
• Explorer Tremor: Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6, Torsen limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension, underbody protection
• Explorer Platinum: Upscale finishes, BlueCruise equipped, heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats, available panoramic roof
• Explorer ST: 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers

Everyday ownership experience

Beyond the drive, the Explorer is supported by ownership tools that save time and add convenience. The FordPass app makes it easy to check vehicle status from your smartphone, find parking, earn rewards, and more. Many owners also appreciate available Pickup & Delivery and Mobile Service, because routine maintenance can fit your schedule without stepping away from work or family time.

• FordPass app: Remote vehicle status, features, and rewards tracking
• Pickup & Delivery: Available valet-style service for scheduled maintenance
• Mobile Service: Select maintenance tasks performed at your location
• FordPass Rewards: Earn and redeem points on eligible service and purchases
• Insurance solutions: Ford Insure options for qualified drivers

Safety and driver confidence

Confidence comes from both advanced technology and thoughtful engineering. The Explorer’s suite of available driver-assist features is designed to help you stay centered, see more, and react sooner. Blind spot coverage, lane support, and a clear view around the vehicle at low speeds can reduce stress during daily driving. For off-pavement ventures, Tremor models add hardware that enhances traction and helps protect key components, all while maintaining the family-friendly flexibility that defines the Explorer nameplate.

How to choose your Explorer — a simple plan

Start with what you do most, then map those needs to power, traction, and cabin features. Use this quick plan before your test drive to zero in on the right configuration:

1. Define your must-haves: List seating needs, towing goals, and everyday tech preferences
2. Pick your power: Choose the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 for balanced efficiency or the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 for maximum performance
3. Select traction: Decide between standard rear-wheel drive or available Intelligent 4WD based on climate and adventure plans
4. Match a trim: Align your feature list with Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, or ST to get the right mix of comfort and capability
5. Test drive back-to-back: Drive at least two trims to compare ride, tech usability, and seat comfort in real time

When you are ready to experience the 2026 Ford Explorer in person, our product specialists will set up a side-by-side walkaround, go over feature differences in detail, and send you on a no-pressure test drive. We can also help you evaluate accessories and packages for towing, tech, and protection, so your Explorer is equipped perfectly from day one.

Have a trade-in or specific monthly targets in mind? Bring those details and our team will prepare a transparent, personalized proposal with options to consider — plus a breakdown of ownership essentials like maintenance intervals and recommended accessories for your use case. The goal is to make choosing your Explorer simple, confident, and enjoyable from the very first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What engines are available on the 2026 Ford Explorer

The Explorer offers a standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 on most trims and an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on performance- and trail-focused models such as ST and Tremor.

How much can the 2026 Explorer tow

When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs. Ask our team about the right hitch, wiring, and towing accessories for your needs.

Does the 2026 Explorer offer AWD or 4WD

Rear-wheel drive is standard, and available Intelligent 4WD adds traction and confidence for varied road surfaces and light off-road use.

How many people can the Explorer seat and how much cargo space does it have

The Explorer offers seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo volume with the rear rows folded, so you can haul people, gear, or a mix of both.

What driver-assist features are included or available

Available Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ bundles helpful features like Adaptive Cruise Control. Select trims can add a 360-degree camera, and available BlueCruise supports hands-free highway driving on compatible roads.

Which trim should I choose if I want the most off-road capability

Explorer Tremor adds an off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, and the availability of the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, making it the natural pick for drivers who prioritize trail use.

Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information

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