If you love exploring the great outdoors, the 2026 Ford Explorer can take you where adventure calls. With seats for six or seven riders, this three-row SUV is perfect for growing families and groups.
Introducing the 2026 Ford Explorer
The 2026 Explorer is a popular three-row midsize SUV with city-friendly dimensions and trail-friendly performance. This year's lineup builds on the 2025 model year with two brand-new trims. The affordable Active 100A pairs a spirited engine with an array of top-tier standard features, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, which includes adaptive cruise control, post-collision braking, and evasive steering assistance.
The rugged Tremor trim takes off-roading up a notch with exclusive performance features, including front and rear deflector plates, a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, and off-road-tuned suspension with a minimum ground clearance of 8.7 inches.
Power and Handling
A turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine is standard on most 2026 Explorer trim levels and pairs with a ten-speed automatic transmission to deliver 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard and provides EPA-estimated ratings of 20 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This powertrain can also tow up to 5,000 pounds, while standard trailering provisions make trailer hauling a breeze.
An intelligent four-wheel drive system with six selectable drive modes and hill descent control is available across the lineup and standard on the Tremor. Select trims can also be customized or come standard with a more powerful twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine with 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
Passenger Capacity and Comfort
The 2026 Explorer comes standard with seats for six, including a spacious second row with comfortable captain's chairs. The second-row seats have an E-Z Entry feature, providing easy access to the 50/50 split-folding third-row bench. Unique cloth seating surfaces and a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat are standard on the base trim, while most upper trims have ActiveX or leather upholstery.
Convenience features include grab handles for the front and second-row passengers, an overhead console with map lights and a sunglasses holder, and a storage bin inside the front center console. If you need room for up to seven passengers, a 35/30/35 split-fold-flat second-row bench is available.
Ford Digital Experience
Each trim level comes standard with the Ford Digital Experience infotainment, which includes a 13.2-inch center display with AM/FM radio, SiriusXM with 360L, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For easy personalization, you can sign in with your Google account to access your saved locations on Google Maps and receive tailored support from Google Assistant.
Whether you need a spacious ride for road trips or a rugged off-roader, the 2026 Explorer can suit most needs and preferences. Visit us at Ed Martin Ford in Anderson, IN, to take it for a spin.