Key Features of the 2026 Ford Explorer

Powertrains: 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 and available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine

Explorer® gives you meaningful power choices. The 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 with Auto Stop-Start Technology is engineered for confident acceleration and efficiency-minded cruising, ideal for daily commutes and highway trips. Drivers who want elevated performance can opt for the available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine on ST and Tremor® models. With up to 400 hp available, the 3.0L EcoBoost® powertrain transforms Explorer® into a performance-oriented SUV that accelerates briskly, merges with authority, and confidently tackles steeper grades—especially when paired with sport-tuned calibrations on ST or the off-road-focused tuning on Tremor®. This smart powertrain lineup ensures you get the right blend of responsiveness, refinement, and strength for your lifestyle.

Drivetrain and Drive Modes: Rear-Wheel Drive and Available Intelligent 4WD

Rear-wheel drive is standard on Explorer® for balanced handling, confident towing, and a planted feel on the open road. For added traction, available Intelligent 4WD seamlessly monitors wheel slip and road conditions, sending power where it’s needed to help you stay in control. Selectable drive modes let you tailor Explorer® to your route—choose a mode for normal driving, slippery conditions, trail exploration, or towing to fine-tune throttle response, shifting, and traction systems. The result is an SUV that feels composed on dry pavement, poised on wet gravel, and sure-footed when you head onto unpaved roads, all with intuitive controls that make it easy to dial in the right setting.

Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving

Available Ford BlueCruise takes long-haul driving to the next level with hands-free highway driving assistance on compatible sections of pre-qualified roads. BlueCruise helps control acceleration, braking, and steering while you keep your eyes on the road, reducing fatigue on extended stretches and simplifying dense traffic. This system works in concert with other driver-assist technologies to maintain a smooth, centered lane position and consistent following distance. When traffic opens up again, BlueCruise helps you maintain speed efficiently and predictably. For families and commuters who spend time on major highways, this feature can turn routine drives into calm, collected time behind the wheel.

Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ and 360-Degree Camera

Explorer® is available with Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+, including helpful features like Adaptive Cruise Control that can adjust your speed to traffic, plus additional assistance to support awareness and confidence. Pair that with the available 360-Degree Camera, and you get a remarkably clear view around the vehicle when maneuvering in tight areas—parallel parking downtown, backing into a campsite, or aligning to a trailer hitch. The crisp camera feeds and intuitive on-screen guidance help take the stress out of low-speed maneuvering. Add in the Ford Connectivity Package and the Ford Digital Experience, and you’ll appreciate how seamlessly Explorer® integrates your devices, entertainment, and navigation into every trip.

Seating for up to Seven and 85.8 cu ft of Cargo Space

Inside, Explorer® is designed to adapt to the day’s plan. Available seating for up to seven gives families room to grow, while quick-folding rear rows unlock up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo volume for home improvement runs or loading camping gear. Thoughtful details—like available heated and ventilated front seats, available massaging front seats on Platinum™, and available second-row comforts—help everyone settle in. Available premium audio from the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® adds concert-like clarity for podcasts and playlists. Whether you’re swapping between school drop-offs and hardware store stops or mapping a weekend road trip, Explorer® makes it easy to configure space, store essentials, and ride in comfort.