Which 2026 Ford Explorer engine best fits daily driving around Rice Lake, WI?

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer Near Cumberland, WI The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to do what this well-known three-row SUV has done for decades: give families, commuters, weekend travelers, and active households a confident blend of space, power, technology, and everyday usefulness. For shoppers comparing midsize SUVs, the Explorer stands out because it brings a rear-drive-based feel, strong turbocharged engine choices, a comfortable cabin, and modern infotainment features without losing sight of practical needs like towing, passenger flexibility, and cargo room. At Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, we know SUV shoppers want more than a quick feature list. A vehicle like the Explorer needs to fit real routines, from school pickups and work commutes to road trips, errands, home projects, and towing small recreational gear. The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed around that kind of versatility, and its trim lineup gives buyers several ways to prioritize value, style, rugged capability, premium comfort, or performance. For drivers serving Turtle Lake, Rice Lake, and Almena, it remains one of the most recognizable and well-rounded Ford SUV options to watch. A Familiar SUV With Modern Confidence The Ford Explorer has a long history as a family-focused SUV, but the 2027 model feels very much like a current-generation vehicle. It offers three rows of seating, a composed ride, and useful convenience features across the lineup. The cabin is practical, with generous first-row and second-row space, easy-to-use controls, and a layout built for daily driving rather than unnecessary complexity. The third row is best suited for children or shorter passengers, which is common in many midsize three-row SUVs, but it adds flexibility when carpool duty or extra guests come along. One of the Explorer's strengths is balance. It can feel smooth and predictable during routine driving, yet it also offers more personality than many family SUVs. The rear-wheel-drive-based architecture helps create a more athletic feel from behind the wheel, while available all-wheel drive adds extra confidence when traction needs change. For shoppers who want an SUV that does not feel anonymous, the Explorer brings a welcome sense of character. Powertrain Options and Performance The 2027 Explorer lineup is expected to continue with two main engine choices. Most trims use a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That may sound like a modest engine for a three-row SUV, but in practice it provides strong acceleration for daily driving, highway merging, and carrying passengers. It is also the better choice for many shoppers focused on fuel economy and long-term value. For drivers who want a stronger performance edge, the Explorer ST features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with up to 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, depending on emissions certification. This engine gives the Explorer a much quicker, more responsive feel and makes the ST one of the more exciting choices in the mainstream three-row SUV segment. A 10-speed automatic transmission is used across the lineup, and rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive helps shoppers match the SUV to personal driving preferences. Standard turbo-four engine: Strong 300-horsepower output with solid everyday efficiency. Available turbo V-6: A performance-focused option for drivers who want quicker acceleration. 10-speed automatic transmission: Designed to support smooth power delivery across city and highway driving. Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive: Choice of drivetrain allows a shopper to prioritize driving feel or added traction. ST performance model: The sportiest Explorer trim, built for drivers who want more excitement from a family SUV. What Is New for 2027? The biggest expected update for 2027 is the availability of a Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. This package performs trim a darker, more aggressive personality with black exterior accents, black wheels, amber-colored running lights, and unique ST Sinister badging. It is a smart addition for drivers who already like the Explorer ST's performance but want a more distinctive look. Beyond that package, the 2027 Explorer is not expected to receive major changes, which is not necessarily a drawback. Recent updates already gave the Explorer a more modern cabin, improved technology, and a cleaner overall presentation. For many shoppers, a carryover model year means Ford is refining a formula that already works well. Interior Comfort and Passenger Space Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer focuses on comfort, storage, and usability. The first row offers supportive seating and a commanding view of the road, while the second row provides good room for adults or child seats. Many models come with second-row captain's chairs, which make access to the third row easier and create a more open cabin feel. A second-row bench may be available for shoppers who want maximum seating capacity. The Explorer's interior may not feel as plush as some luxury-leaning competitors in upper trims, but it succeeds as a practical family space. Soft-touch materials in key areas, convenient storage spots, multiple charging ports, and a flexible cargo area help make the cabin easy to live with. With the rear rows folded, the Explorer opens up useful cargo volume for luggage, sports equipment, home improvement supplies, or larger everyday items. Technology That Fits Modern Driving Technology is a major part of the 2027 Explorer's appeal. A large central touchscreen is standard, and Ford's current infotainment experience supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through compatible devices. Available Google and Amazon integration helps make maps, voice commands, apps, and connected services feel more natural. When the vehicle is parked, select entertainment and browsing features can also add convenience during charging stops, appointments, or waiting periods. Families and busy professionals will appreciate the Explorer's practical connectivity. Multiple USB ports, available premium audio, digital displays, and available driver convenience upgrades help the cabin feel current. Depending on trim, shoppers can look for features such as a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, a 360-degree camera system, a hands-free power liftgate, heated seating, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display. Safety and Driver Assistance The 2027 Ford Explorer is expected to continue offering a strong group of standard and available driver-assistance features. Standard systems generally include helpful technology such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. These features are designed to support awareness and help reduce stress during everyday driving. Available upgrades may include front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, self-parking assistance, and Ford's hands-free highway driving technology on compatible mapped roads. For shoppers comparing family SUVs, this level of driver support can be a major advantage. Safety ratings can vary by model year and configuration, so it is always wise to review current NHTSA and IIHS information when the 2027 model becomes available. Automatic emergency braking: Helps alert the driver and can assist with braking in certain situations. Lane-keeping assist: Supports smoother lane discipline during highway travel. Blind-spot monitoring: Helps improve awareness during lane changes. Available 360-degree camera: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight areas easier. Available hands-free highway driving: Adds convenience on compatible pre-mapped roads. Towing, Fuel Economy, and Everyday Utility The 2027 Explorer remains a capable choice for light towing. Properly equipped models are expected to tow up to 5,000 pounds, and a Class III towing package is included on Explorer models. That gives the SUV practical capability for small trailers, personal watercraft, utility trailers, or other recreational gear, while trailer sway control helps support stability. Fuel economy depends on engine, drivetrain, and trim. The turbocharged four-cylinder is the more efficient option and can deliver strong highway mileage for a three-row SUV, while the turbocharged V-6 trades some efficiency for stronger acceleration. For many shoppers, the four-cylinder engine will be the sweet spot. For performance-minded drivers, the ST's extra power may be worth the trade-off. Which 2027 Ford Explorer Trim Should You Consider? The best Explorer trim depends on driving priorities. The Active trim is likely to appeal to value-focused shoppers who want core Explorer strengths without moving into higher equipment levels. The ST-Line is a strong choice for drivers who like sporty styling but do not need the full performance of the ST. The Tremor adds a more rugged personality for shoppers who expect light trail use or want a tougher look. Platinum models lean toward comfort and premium features, while the ST delivers the most exciting performance. Active: A practical starting point with strong standard power and family-friendly features. ST-Line: Sporty appearance with the efficient turbo-four engine. Tremor: Rugged styling and capability-focused equipment. Platinum: More comfort, technology, and upscale convenience features. ST: The performance pick with the strongest engine and boldest driving character. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a good family SUV? Yes. The 2027 Explorer offers three-row seating, strong engine choices, useful cargo space, modern infotainment, and a wide range of driver-assistance features. The first and second rows are especially comfortable, while the third row works best for children or shorter passengers. What is the main update for the 2027 Ford Explorer? The key expected update is the available Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. It adds black exterior details, black wheels, amber running lights, and unique badging for a more aggressive performance-inspired look. How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow? When properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer is expected to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The included Class III towing package adds useful hardware such as a hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control. Which Explorer engine is best? The turbocharged four-cylinder is a great fit for most shoppers because it offers strong horsepower with better efficiency. The turbocharged V-6 is best for drivers who want maximum performance, especially in the Explorer ST. Does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer all-wheel drive? Yes. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many configurations, and all-wheel drive is available for added traction and confidence. Some trims may include all-wheel drive depending on configuration. Final Thoughts on the 2027 Ford Explorer The 2027 Ford Explorer remains a smart choice for shoppers who want a three-row SUV with power, practicality, and personality. It is comfortable enough for daily family use, capable enough for towing and road trips, and modern enough to satisfy drivers who expect large screens, wireless smartphone integration, and helpful safety technology. The new Sinister package also gives the ST trim extra visual attitude, making the performance model even more appealing. While some competitors may offer a more luxurious cabin or a roomier third row, the Explorer answers with strong engines, confident road manners, meaningful towing ability, and a broad trim lineup. For anyone researching a midsize three-row SUV that can handle busy routines while still feeling engaging to drive, the 2027 Ford Explorer deserves a close look. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - BlueCruise Confidence in the 2026 Ford Explorer for Turtle Lake, WI Drives The stretch of highway between Turtle Lake and Cumberland is a perfect place to appreciate how today’s driver-assistance systems reduce fatigue and help you arrive fresh. In the 2026 Ford Explorer, available BlueCruise adds that extra layer of confidence with hands-free highway driving assistance on approved roadways. It’s not a gimmick — it’s the kind of thoughtful tech that lets you settle in, monitor the road, and enjoy the ride while the system helps manage steering, braking, and acceleration under your supervision. We spend a lot of time helping shoppers understand how to choose and use advanced driver-assist systems, and BlueCruise is often the feature that turns skeptics into fans. With clear alerts and intuitive prompts, it’s easy to know when you’re in hands-free mode and when you’re back to conventional driving. If you’re planning regular trips along US-8 or US-63, BlueCruise support can be a welcome companion — especially when you just want a calmer, more consistent cruise to your destination. Importantly, BlueCruise does not replace the driver — it supports you. The Explorer’s camera-based attention monitoring and clear driver prompts keep you engaged. You’ll still steer and manage every moment when the system isn’t available, but when the conditions are right, easing your grip for a stretch of hands-free driving can make a meaningful difference in how you feel after a long day. What BlueCruise Does Well BlueCruise pairs naturally with the Explorer’s fundamentals — confident power, stable ride, and smart packaging — to create a well-rounded road-trip partner. When you combine Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering and hands-free capability where available, your routine highway miles feel more relaxed, yet controlled. And because Explorer trims like Platinum and ST can be equipped with BlueCruise, you can match that tech to the performance and comfort level you prefer. Hands-free zones: Operates on compatible, mapped highways where conditions allow Clear prompts: Visual and audible cues make activation and status obvious Driver monitoring: Camera-based attention checks to help keep you engaged Smooth control: Helps manage speed, distance, and steering in hands-free mode We’ve found that drivers appreciate how naturally BlueCruise slots into their habits. It doesn’t demand you change how you drive — it simply lends support during those long, uninterrupted stretches. If you’re heading to Turtle Lake or making the loop through Rice Lake and Almena, it’s exactly the kind of technology that brings more ease to the drive without getting in the way. Explorer Trims That Pair Nicely with BlueCruise Choosing the right trim is about matching features to your routine. The Explorer Platinum makes BlueCruise available alongside comfort upgrades like heated, ventilated, and even massaging front seats — a combination that smooths out long family trips. The Explorer ST goes a different direction, pairing BlueCruise availability with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, and performance brakes. If you want both strength and serenity on the highway, that duo delivers an appealing balance. Meanwhile, the Explorer ST-Line includes a 360-Degree Camera as standard — a great complement for those who value added situational awareness in town — and you can equip BlueCruise on the right package. No matter which path you take, the Explorer lineup makes it easy to blend the safety and convenience tech you want with the attitude and comfort you like. Everyday Practicality Still Matters BlueCruise is a highlight, but it’s only one part of why the 2026 Explorer works so well for local families. With up to seven seats and 85.8 cubic feet of max cargo volume, it handles school carpools, hockey gear, and weekend projects without breaking stride. The rear-wheel-drive foundation and available Intelligent 4WD strike a sweet spot between efficiency, stability, and all-weather confidence. And if towing a small camper or boat is on your list, the 5,000-pound maximum rating is the kind of capability you’ll feel good about using. Room for people: Comfortable three-row layout for growing families Room for cargo: Flatten the rear rows for a generous, squared-off load floor Towing confidence: 5,000-lb max rating to bring more of your plans along Tech that fits: Ford Digital Experience and available B&O® audio for easy, enjoyable drives When you add it up, the Explorer brings a genuinely useful set of tools to daily life — and then layers BlueCruise on top to make the long stretches feel less like work. That’s a smart formula for families balancing routines around Turtle Lake and quick drives to Cumberland for school, errands, or a night out. Frequently Asked Questions: Is BlueCruise standard on the 2026 Explorer? BlueCruise is available on select trims and packages. We can walk you through which configurations include it and how plan activation works. Can I use BlueCruise on every highway? BlueCruise operates in compatible mapped areas and when driving conditions allow. You’ll see clear prompts when the system is ready for hands-free mode. Does BlueCruise work in traffic? BlueCruise can assist with lane centering and speed management, and hands-free operation may be available on approved stretches — even in heavier flow — but engagement always depends on conditions and mapping. Which Explorer trim should I choose for highway commuting? If you prioritize comfort and calm, consider Platinum for its available massaging seats and BlueCruise availability. If you’d like more performance, explore ST with available BlueCruise — it blends confident power with highway assistance. At Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, we set up personalized test drives so you can feel how BlueCruise fits your routine. We also offer quick technology refreshers to help you use the features you choose with confidence. We’re proud to be serving Turtle Lake, Rice Lake, and Almena, WI with a team that understands local routes and daily needs. If you’re curious about BlueCruise, want help comparing Explorer trims, or you’re ready to value your trade and get moving, reach out and we’ll make it easy to take the next step. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - How BlueCruise helps the 2026 Ford Explorer handle Highway 53 and 63 around Cumberland, WI Hands-free highway driving used to sound like science fiction. Today, the 2026 Ford Explorer brings that future to life with BlueCruise — a driver-assist system designed to help with steering, acceleration, and braking on compatible roads while you keep your eyes on the traffic ahead. For drivers navigating Highway 53, 63, or the stretches between county towns, BlueCruise pairs beautifully with the Explorer’s balanced ride, giving you a calmer, more consistent experience when the miles add up. What makes BlueCruise so compelling in the Explorer is how naturally it integrates into the SUV’s overall mission. Explorer is built to be the right size for families and active households — easy to maneuver, roomy when you need it, and comfortable for everyone. Layer BlueCruise on top of that strong foundation, and the result is an SUV that takes the edge off longer trips, helps smooth out stop-and-go traffic patterns, and provides a reassuring buffer against fatigue. It is not a replacement for driver attention, but it is an outstanding partner on the kinds of drives local owners make every day. What BlueCruise does in everyday driving At its core, BlueCruise is about making predictable stretches of highway more relaxing. On designated roads, it can manage lane centering while adjusting speed to the flow of traffic. When the system is engaged, the Explorer continues to feel planted and composed, which makes it easier to stay fresh over time. If you regularly run up or down Highway 53 or hop across on 63, this is where BlueCruise shines — consistent lines, clear markings, and steady speeds that take advantage of the feature set. Highway focus: Works on compatible, mapped freeways designed for consistent, well-marked travel. Lane centering: Actively assists with steering to keep the vehicle centered when lane lines are clear. Adaptive pace: Adjusts speed to traffic, helping maintain a comfortable following gap. Driver attention: Helps with control while ensuring you stay engaged and eyes-forward. Because BlueCruise is integrated into the Explorer’s broader driver-assist suite, it cooperates with features you may already trust, like Adaptive Cruise Control and lane support. The transitions are smooth, prompts are easy to follow, and you can quickly toggle features based on your preferences or changing conditions. That simplicity is key. You do not have to relearn how to drive; you just get a helpful assist that reduces workload on the right stretches of road. How Explorer’s hardware complements BlueCruise The 2026 Explorer gives BlueCruise a stable, comfortable platform to work on. The suspension strikes a smart balance between damping big bumps and keeping body motions tidy. Steering is direct enough to feel connected, but relaxed enough to avoid twitchiness at speed. If you choose a trim with a more athletic setup, like the ST, the extra performance feels natural alongside the system’s assistance. Meanwhile, available features such as the 360-Degree Camera and B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen ensure the overall experience stays premium — from maneuvering in tight spaces to enjoying your favorite podcasts after the highway miles are done. Another benefit is how easily Explorer adapts to changing needs. Some days you are solo, covering ground between towns. Other days, you have a full third row and a rear cargo area stacked with gear. The SUV’s calm road manners, generous storage, and straightforward controls make all of those scenarios comfortable. BlueCruise simply adds to that ease by making the longest legs of your route less demanding. When BlueCruise fits best for local drivers Cumberland-area owners tend to split their time between local errands and regional drives. Think morning commutes along familiar corridors, weekly trips to see family, or weekends headed toward trailheads and lakes. BlueCruise fits naturally into that routine when you spend measurable time on compatible highways. If you regularly see long, straight stretches where traffic spreads out and maintains a steady pace, you will likely appreciate how the system lowers the cumulative effort of those miles. Regular commuters: Great for routine highway segments where traffic patterns are predictable. Family road trips: Help take the edge off the longest legs, especially with a full cabin. Regional connectors: Ideal for the consistent, well-marked sections of US-53 and US-63. Mixed driving: Easy to enable on the highway and turn off when transitioning to local routes. Of course, you will still rely on Explorer’s other strengths — available Intelligent 4WD, confident braking, and composed handling — when the road narrows, or the route gets more dynamic. That versatility is what makes this pairing so compelling: the hardware to manage weather and varied roads, plus the high-tech assistance to smooth out the most repetitive parts of highway driving. Frequently Asked Questions: Does BlueCruise work everywhere? No. BlueCruise is designed for compatible, mapped highways. You will see prompts in the vehicle when you enter an eligible area, and you can always choose when to engage or disengage the system. Do I still need to pay attention with BlueCruise active? Yes. BlueCruise is an assistance feature. You must remain attentive, keep your eyes on the road, and be ready to take control at any time. Which Explorer trims offer BlueCruise? BlueCruise is available on select trims, including Platinum and ST. Availability can vary, so check specific vehicles in inventory to confirm. How does BlueCruise compare to regular Adaptive Cruise Control? Adaptive Cruise Control maintains speed and following distance. BlueCruise adds hands-free lane centering on compatible highways, helping with steering in addition to speed and spacing. Can I test BlueCruise during a test drive? Yes. If your route includes a compatible highway segment and the vehicle is equipped, we can help you experience how it works in real conditions. The 2026 Ford Explorer blends thoughtful packaging with technology that genuinely helps on the road. BlueCruise stands out because it is not a gimmick — it is a meaningful assist for the real-world highways we all use. If you would like to see how it feels on your familiar routes, we can map a test drive that includes highway miles and local streets so you get a full picture of day-to-day life with the system. At Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, we are serving Cumberland, Turtle Lake, and Rice Lake with Explorer models configured to match different driving styles — from family-focused comfort to sport-forward trims and off-road-inclined setups. When you are ready, we are here to walk you through options, show you how the technology works, and help you choose the right configuration with confidence. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information