The New 2026 Ford Explorer

Let's talk about what happens when you press the accelerator. The Ford Explorer engine options this year give you two fantastic choices, depending on how much power you want under your right foot.

The standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 puts out 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. If you want the kind of power that pins you back in your seat, the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 cranks things up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque thanks to turbocharging and direct injection working together.

Every single Explorer rolls off the line ready to tow 5,000 lbs with the standard Class III Tow Package. Ford also gives you six drive modes to match whatever the road throws at you. Normal and Eco handle your daily commute while Sport sharpens everything up when you want to have some fun. Tow/Haul optimizes performance for pulling heavy loads, and Slippery keeps things stable when conditions get dicey. Depending on your model, you'll also get either Trail or Off-Road mode for when pavement becomes optional.

The Explorer's cabin proves that practical and premium can absolutely coexist. Available ActiveX leather seating surfaces give you that upscale feel while standing up to the realities of family life. A gorgeous interior color palette sets the tone, and available multicolor Ambient Lighting lets you customize the mood with a tap.

The optional Panoramic Fixed-Glass Roof with Power Sunshade opens everything up, which third-row passengers will appreciate. Speaking of which, you can seat up to seven people across those three rows. Long drives become something to look forward to with the available multicontour massaging seats.

When you need to haul items, available PowerFold technology drops those rear seats flat to reveal up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2026 Explorer looks like it means business. Sleek all-LED headlamps and LED taillamp light bars give it a modern signature. Model-specific grilles distinguish each trim level, so your Explorer makes the statement you want it to make.

Color options range from the sophisticated standards like Agate Black, Carbonized Gray, and Space White to premium choices. For an extra cost, choose between Vapor Blue, Rapid Red Tinted Clearcoat, Star White Tri-coat, and Marsh Gray. The power liftgate is another nice touch.

Finally, seven wheel designs spanning 18, 20, and 21-inch sizes let you dial in exactly the look you want.

Ford packed enough tech into the Explorer to make gadget lovers very happy. The available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen transforms this SUV into a legitimate listening room. Choose between a 10-speaker setup or go all out with the 980-watt, 14-speaker configuration. Both include a subwoofer that delivers bass you can feel in your chest.

The 13.2-inch center touchscreen serves as command central for the Ford Digital Experience, and Apps Onboard means you can download what you need directly from Google Play. The Ford Connectivity Package opens up streaming, games, and even karaoke while you're parked.

Connect your devices to Wi-Fi, link your keys to your phone, and let the Voice Assistant handle commands so you can keep your eyes where they belong.

Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology comes standard because peace of mind shouldn't be optional.

The Lane-Keeping System and BLIS work together to keep you aware of your surroundings. Blind Spot Information System alerts you to vehicles lurking where you can't see them, while Cross-Traffic Alert watches your back when you're reversing in crowded parking lots. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering is another great feature.

The real star here is Ford BlueCruise. This available hands-free highway driving technology lets you take your hands off the wheel on compatible roads. The system handles acceleration, braking, and steering. The new Automatic Lane Change feature takes it even further by monitoring traffic and executing lane changes without you touching the turn signal.

The Active 100A establishes a strong foundation right out of the gate. You get the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control, and selectable drive modes. Of course, the Class III Trailer Tow Package comes standard.

The interior stays comfortable with tri-zone automatic climate control. Ford didn't skimp on connectivity either. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work through the 13.2-inch center display. You have three 12V outlets and six USB ports to keep everyone charged.

The 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels and black mesh grille with chrome bars give it a clean, confident look.

The Active trim takes everything from the 100A and adds the touches that elevate daily driving. A power liftgate makes loading effortless while active noise cancellation quiets things down. When temperatures drop, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel take the edge off cold mornings.

The ten-way power driver's seat helps you find that perfect position. On the outside, you have black roof-rack side rails with chrome lower bodyside accents.

This is where things get sporty. The ST-Line brings Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with a 360-Degree Camera. It also upgrades the sound to a 10-speaker B&O system with a subwoofer. Unique cloth seats with red stitching and a leather-wrapped steering wheel set the interior apart.

Outside, 20-inch Ebony-painted machined wheels and black exterior accents make a statement. Explorer hood badging lets everyone know this isn't your average SUV.

Adventure calls, and the Tremor answers. This off-road-focused trim offers the available 3.0L EcoBoost engine. Make use of a Torsen limited-slip rear axle and suspension tuned specifically for rough terrain. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and underbody protection plates front and rear, you can tackle trails that would stop other SUVs cold.

The 18-inch Ebony Black wheels with Electric Spice yellow accents wear all-terrain tires. You'll find daring orange accents throughout. Heated front and second-row seats with stitched Tremor logos and floor liners handle whatever mess the trail brings inside.

Everything about the Platinum Explorer feels premium, from the 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted wheels and satin aluminum accents to the heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with leather inserts.

Adaptive headlamps improve nighttime visibility while Ambient Lighting sets the perfect mood inside. PowerFold third-row seats maximize versatility, and the available panoramic glass roof opens everything up.

BlueCruise hands-free highway driving comes equipped with a complimentary 1-year plus 90-day subscription. The 14-speaker B&O Sound System ensures the audio matches the rest of the experience.

The ST exists for drivers who want everything the Explorer offers, plus the bragging rights that come with owning the fastest one ever built. This is the only trim that comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, and Ford gave it the hardware to handle all that power.

Sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and massive 21-inch Magnetite-painted wheels keep everything planted through corners. The quad-tipped exhaust announces your presence. Inside are heated and ventilated front seats with red accent stitching.

The 2026 Explorer gets the family where they need to go with comfort and capability. You can find the Ford Explorer near Clay Center, KS, right here at Valor Auto Group. We would love for you to come in, take a seat behind the wheel, and experience what the new Explorer can do.

To learn more about the Explorer, visit our Explorer Research Hub . For a broader look at Ford's lineup, explore our Ford Research Hub.

What is the maximum towing capacity for the 2026 Explorer?

Every Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs regardless of which trim or engine you choose. The Class III Tow Package comes standard across the lineup. It includes a Class III hitch receiver, seven-wire harness, and both four-pin and seven-pin trailer connectors.

What's new for the 2026 Ford Explorer?

This year, the off-road-focused Tremor model is being introduced to the lineup. The panoramic fixed glass roof also becomes an available option across all trims. Vehicles equipped with Ford BlueCruise now include an Automatic Lane Change feature.

What are the dimensions of the 2026 Explorer?

The Explorer measures 198.7 inches long, 78.9 inches wide, and 70.2 inches tall. That translates to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and generous legroom and headroom throughout all three rows.

Where can I get financing for a 2026 Ford Explorer near me?

Our dealership near Fort Riley has a dedicated finance department ready to work with you. We work diligently to find the payment plan that fits your situation.

Should I buy a used Ford Explorer?

Pre-owned is an excellent option if you want to save some money while still getting a quality vehicle. As a used and new Ford dealership near Clay Center, KS, we keep a wide inventory of used vehicles in stock . Some are even priced under 15K !

Is there a service center at a Ford dealership near me?

Absolutely! Our service center is staffed with trained technicians who know Ford vehicles inside and out. We stock OEM parts and handle installation of Ford accessories in Junction City so your Explorer stays exactly the way it should be.