2026 Ford Explorer
MSRP: $38,465[a]
Horsepower: 300
Torque: 310 lb-ft
Cargo Space: 85.8 cu.ft.
When you’re considering a new SUV, Ford is sure to be on your shortlist. One of the most trusted brands on the road and a continuous pillar in the SUV segment, they’ve proven time and again that they build tough, reliable, confidence-inspiring vehicles made for real life.
The 2026 Ford Explorer can do it all, from tackling school runs and highway miles to daily commutes, off-road adventures, and long-haul road trips. It covers the broadest set of daily-driver needs and then far surpasses them, with the ability to take you anywhere.
Available in six different trim levels, ranging from the entry-level Active 100A to the top-of-the-line Platinum and the sporty ST, the 2026 Explorer lineup offers something unique for everyone. No matter what you value most when you’re looking to buy a new SUV, whether that be a robust engine, comprehensive tech and safety features, impressive towing and hauling capability, easy-access cargo space, or the ability to seamlessly handle whatever type of terrain you may end up on, the 2026 Explorer has you covered across all bases.
At Kings Ford, we’re proud to be your premier Ford dealer with the best selection of 2026 Ford Explorers you’ll find anywhere. Keep reading to discover the SUV that does it all.
The Most Capable SUV on the Road
The 2026 Ford Explorer is available with two powertrain options: a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces up to 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine comes standard on the Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, and Tremor trims. The other engine option for the lineup is a 3.0L turbocharged V6 that delivers up to 400 hp with 425 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain comes standard on the ST and Platinum, while being optional for the Tremor trim.
Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive, with an optional four-wheel drive available. All that power delivers impressive speed while still handling like a dream across various terrains, offering a smooth and responsive ride.
The base engine is rated at an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway, with a combined rating of 24 MPG, standard with rear-wheel drive. Trims equipped with four-wheel drive deliver a 20 MPG rating in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, with a combined overall rating of 23 MPG.
Ford Explorers paired with the 3.0L engine are estimated at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for RWD with a combined rating of 21 MPG. Trims equipped with four-wheel drive deliver 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway with a combined overall rating of 20 MPG. Where you plan on hitting the road makes a difference in which trim works best for your lifestyle. Fortunately, Ford offers its drivers a wide range of options to suit their specific needs and get them where they need to go.
Another standout feature of the 2026 Explorer is its six available drive modes: normal, eco, sport, tow/haul, slippery, and trail. Regardless of the terrain you encounter, you can select the ideal drive mode for it. That’s not all; every Explorer includes a Class III towing package from the factory, complete with a hitch receiver, seven-wire harness, and trailer pin connectors, providing a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. This allows you to haul heavy campers, boats, RVs, or whatever else you need to bring on your next adventure with ease.
Explore More—Inside and Out
The 2026 Explorer was built to stand out amongst the crowd. Its sleek and modern appearance exudes confidence and is sure to turn heads. With dynamic lines, a sculpted hood, and a unique, distinctive grille, it’s one of the most stunning SUVs on the road. Available in a range of eye-catching colors and a wide variety of trims, you can customize it to fit your style and needs. Also, with convenient features like the power liftgate that opens with your key fob, you never have to worry about having your hands full, elevating your experience and making your life easier than ever before.
The interior feels luxurious the moment you slide behind the steering wheel. With available seating for up to seven, it’s designed with your family’s comfort and convenience in mind. The spacious cabin offers ample room and is packed with features designed to elevate every drive. You can customize your comfort by opting for a trim that features durable cloth or Miko leather seating. Second-row heated captain’s chairs and a power-folding third row with impressive flexibility to accommodate passengers and cargo are also available. For added comfort features, heated and ventilated seating is available, along with a heated steering wheel for colder winter mornings.
Storage space is never an issue with the Explore as it offers a standard cargo of 85.8 cu.ft. meaning you can fit backpacks, groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or whatever hobby your kids are into that week, easily in the back. Your life is busy, and worrying about space shouldn’t be an added concern, which is why the Explorer was made to add more convenience to every driver’s life.
Top-Notch Tech and Safety Features
Every Ford model offers the Ford Digital Experience, which provides drivers with access to apps and services from Google Play, where you can select gaming and video options directly from your center screen. Through the 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, you can connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are standard on trims that support compatible devices.
The graphics are impressively crisp and customizable, and the software is intuitive to your needs. When the vehicle is parked, you can stream videos from YouTube, browse the internet, or play games. Your kids will never be bored in the car again. There are eight USB ports available, including two for third-row passengers, and three 12-volt power sockets, ensuring every passenger can stay connected.
You can personalize your Explorer to suit your exact driving needs, ensuring a smooth ride every time. Adjust your driver’s seat, steering wheel, and mirrors, link your keys to your phone, save your Google Maps destinations, and customize your Google Assistant to suit your preferences.
Every 2026 Explorer model comes with the complimentary Ford Connectivity Package for one year, which provides up to ten devices on Wi-Fi Hotspot, access to popular streaming apps, podcasts, karaoke, Google Maps, and voice-assist features. You can choose to continue purchasing the service annually after the initial complimentary year is up, or opt for a one-time purchase. In our opinion, it’s more than worth it. You’ll get every penny’s worth in no time.
Every 2026 Explorer model is also packed with safety and driver-assistance features made to give you confidence on the road. Here’s what comes standard:
- Lane-keeping system
- Blind spot assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Pre-collision assist with automated emergency braking
- Reverse brake assist
- SOS post-crash alert system
You can bring the whole family along for the ride with confidence, knowing they’ll not only be riding comfortably and having a great time with all the cool tech and features, but they’ll be safe, which is the most important part behind any vehicle.
Ready to Experience the 2026 Explorer
Now that we’ve gone over everything you need to know about the 2026 Ford Explorer, here comes the fun part: finding your perfect model and bringing it home. That’s where Kings Ford comes in, as you won’t find a better, more impressive selection of 2026 Explorers than here on our lot.
If you want to avoid the hassle and high prices of typical dealerships, we’ve got you covered. We’re dedicated to bringing every customer who walks through our doors the best, most positive car-buying experience they’ve ever had.
From our competitive pricing to our exceptional team and extensive selection of models, we’re proud to be your premier Ford dealer, and we promise you’ll find exactly what you need when you shop with us. Don’t wait—your dream 2026 Ford Explorer is waiting for you on our lot, and we can’t wait to get you behind the wheel.
