2026 Ford Explorer Overview at Moore Ford
Check Out 2026 Ford Explorer Specs and Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer is a strong choice for drivers in Hartford, KY, who want three-row versatility, confident performance, and modern technology built for real families. Available through Moore Ford, this midsize SUV stands out against rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot with its rear-wheel drive architecture, higher towing capability, and more engaging driving dynamics. It also fits neatly within the Ford lineup, positioned between the Escape and Expedition as a balanced option for size and capability.
There are six trim levels available, including Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, Platinum™, and ST. Each trim builds on the Explorer’s core strengths with added comfort, off-road capability, or performance-focused features. Whether you want everyday practicality or a more performance-driven experience, the 2026 Explorer lineup offers a wide range of options.
2026 Explorer Cabin and Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer features a three-row cabin built for flexibility and comfort, with seating for up to seven passengers or available second-row captain’s chairs that improve access to the third row. Upholstery ranges from cloth to ActiveX™ synthetic seating, with available leather-trimmed and premium leather surfaces on higher trims.
Comfort and convenience features include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable front seats with memory. Tri-zone automatic climate control comes standard, and an available twin-panel moonroof adds natural light to the cabin.
Key interior features include:
- Ambient interior lighting
- Split-folding second and third row seats
- Flat load floor for easier cargo loading
Interior Dimensions and Cargo Space
The Explorer offers usable space across all three rows, making it practical for both daily driving and longer trips. Headroom measures 40.7 inches in the first row, 40.5 inches in the second row, and 38.9 inches in the third row, while legroom comes in at 43.0 inches, 37.5 inches, and 31.8 inches, respectively.
Cargo capacity includes:
- 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row
- 46 cubic feet behind the second row
- 85.8 cubic feet behind the first row
Exterior Design and Capability of the 2026 Explorer
The 2026 Explorer features a bold, athletic design with a wide stance and sculpted lines. Standard LED headlights and taillights provide clear visibility, while higher trims add signature lighting elements and upgraded finishes. A power liftgate comes standard, with a hands-free foot-activated liftgate available for added convenience when your hands are full.
Wheel options range from 18-inch to available 21-inch designs, paired with all-season or all-terrain tires depending on the trim. Roof rails come standard for added cargo flexibility, and an available black-painted roof creates a striking two-tone look.
Available exterior paint colors include:
- Space White Metallic
- Star White Metallic Tri-coat
- Carbonized Gray Metallic
- Agate Black Metallic
- Vapor Blue Metallic
- Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
- Marsh Gray
Available Packages
Tremor® Package
The Tremor® Package equips the Explorer for off-road use with increased ground clearance, underbody skid plates, and front and rear tow hooks for recovery situations. An off-road-tuned suspension improves control on uneven terrain, while revised approach and departure angles help reduce the risk of contact on steep inclines and declines.
ST-Line Premium Package
The ST-Line Premium Package adds black exterior trim, ST-Line badging, and larger alloy wheels for a sportier look. Upgraded LED lighting provides a more distinct light signature, and a hands-free power liftgate allows easy access to the cargo area using a foot-activated sensor.
ST High Package
The ST High Package adds larger wheels with performance-focused tires, along with gloss black exterior accents and ST badging. Upgraded LED lighting improves visibility, and a power liftgate with programmable height settings makes loading easier in tight spaces.
2026 Explorer Performance and Capability
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers two gas engine options that balance everyday efficiency with strong performance. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 produces up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in ST models for quicker acceleration and stronger passing power.
Key performance specs include:
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive (standard)
- Available intelligent four-wheel drive
- Up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped
The terrain management system allows drivers to fine-tune performance based on road and weather conditions, helping maintain traction and control across a wide range of environments.
Selectable drive modes include:
- Normal
- Eco
- Sport
- Tow/haul
- Slippery
- Trail
- Deep snow/sand
The available Class III Trailer Tow Package adds a hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control, helping you tow with greater confidence.
Additional capability features include:
- Hill start assist for smoother acceleration on inclines
- Hill descent control on select trims for added control on steep terrain
- Traction and stability systems that help maintain grip in changing conditions
2026 Explorer Technology and Connectivity Features
The 2026 Explorer features a modern infotainment system centered around a large 13.2-inch touchscreen interface with crisp graphics and intuitive controls. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displays customizable vehicle data, and steering-wheel-mounted controls keep key functions within easy reach.
Core system features include:
- Ford SYNC® infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Digital instrument cluster display
- Available B&O® premium audio system
- Wireless charging pad
- Built-in navigation system
The available Ford Connectivity Package expands the experience with enhanced connected services, designed to keep you informed, entertained, and connected on the go. Over-the-air updates help keep systems current without requiring dealership visits.
Connectivity Package features include:
- In-vehicle apps and streaming capability
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Cloud-connected navigation enhancements
- Voice assistant integration
- Real-time traffic and weather updates
Additional tech features include:
- 360-degree camera system
- Remote start system
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports
- FordPass™ Connect integration
2026 Explorer Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety remains a major strength of the 2026 Ford Explorer, thanks to the Ford Co-Pilot360™ and BlueCruise. The Ford Co-Pilot360™ system comes standard and includes driver-assist features designed to help improve awareness and reduce the risk of collisions in everyday driving.
Features in the system include:
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane-keeping system
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering
- Traffic sign recognition
Available BlueCruise takes highway driving a step further by enabling hands-free operation on prequalified sections of divided highways known as Hands-Free Blue Zones. Using cameras, radar, and mapping data, the system helps manage steering, acceleration, and braking while monitoring driver attention to ensure safe use.
BlueCruise features include:
- Hands-free highway driving capability
- Lane centering with continuous steering support
- Intelligent adaptive cruise control
- Driver-facing camera for attention monitoring
- Automatic lane change assist
Learn More About the 2026 Ford Explorer in Hartford, KY
The 2026 Ford Explorer delivers the space, performance, and technology that Hartford drivers expect, all in a package that feels ready for anything. Visit Moore Ford to explore the full lineup, compare trims, and take a test drive. Our team can also walk you through flexible financing and lease options to help you find a payment plan that fits your budget.
*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.