2026 Ford Explorer
For the ones who see every detour as a scenic route. America's iconic three-row SUV is back with more power, more technology, and a bold new Tremor model built to take on the trail. Explore trims, specs, and available inventory at Cloninger Ford of Morganton.
2026 Ford Explorer: Powertrain & Cabin Highlights
The 2026 Explorer blends three-row family versatility with genuine performance capability — topped off by the all-new Tremor model, the most capable off-road Explorer ever built. Here's a focused look at the specs that define the experience.
Powertrain & Capability
Engine specs, towing capacity & performance hardware
Whether you're towing a camper up to the Blue Ridge Parkway or navigating off-road terrain in the new Tremor, the Explorer's engine lineup delivers the right power for the journey.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 — 300 hp / 310 lb-ft of torque (standard on Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum)
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6 — 400 hp / 415 lb-ft of torque (standard on ST, available on Tremor)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic on both engines
- Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive standard; available Intelligent 4WD
- Max Available Towing: 5,000 lbs (all models with standard Class III Tow Package)
- Max Cargo Volume: Up to 85.8 cu ft behind the first row
- Seating Capacity: Up to 7 passengers (6 on Tremor)
- Selectable Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail or Off-Road (model dependent)
- Tremor Ground Clearance: 8.7" minimum running clearance
Cabin Technology & Comfort
Infotainment, seating & family-ready interior details
The Explorer's interior is engineered to handle school pick-up lines and weekend trail runs with equal ease — featuring a generous 13.2" touchscreen, available massaging seats, and a versatile three-row layout.
- Ford Digital Experience with 13.2" center touchscreen — standard across all trims
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™ — included standard
- Available B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen — 10-speaker or 14-speaker 980-watt systems with subwoofer
- Available Ford Connectivity Package — unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot (up to 10 devices), streaming, Google Maps, and karaoke
- Available Ford BlueCruise — hands-free highway driving with Automatic Lane Change capability
- Available heated & ventilated front seats with available multicontour massaging function (Platinum)
- Available PowerFold third-row seats for convenient access to up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space
- Available Ambient Lighting — multicolor interior lighting to set the mood
- Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technologies available across the lineup
2026 Ford Explorer Trims Compared: Find Your Perfect Match
| Trim | Standout Features | Ideal Buyer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Active 100A |
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp), standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, 13.2" center display with Ford Digital Experience, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto™, selectable drive modes, 18" Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels | Value-focused families and first-time SUV buyers who want the trusted Explorer platform with essential tech and capable towing right from the base trim |
| Active | Heated front-row seats, heated steering wheel, ten-way power driver's seat, power liftgate, active noise cancellation, black roof-rack side rails, chrome lower bodyside accents, available 20" Carbonized Gray or Luster Nickel wheels | Active families who want meaningful comfort upgrades — heated seats, a power liftgate, and a refined interior — without stepping into a higher trim bracket |
| ST-Line | 20" Ebony-painted machined aluminum wheels, black exterior sport accents, Explorer hood badging, B&O 10-speaker sound system with subwoofer, 360-Degree Camera, unique cloth seats with red stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel, optional BlueCruise | Drivers who want a sporty, blacked-out aesthetic and an upgraded audio experience without committing to the full performance ST package |
| Tremor | Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp), Torsen limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height (8.7" ground clearance), 18" Ebony Black wheels with Electric Spice accents, off-road auxiliary lights, front and rear steel deflector plates, B&O 10-speaker system, heated front- and second-row seats, optional BlueCruise | Off-road enthusiasts who want factory-built trail hardware and the most powerful Explorer engine option — without going to an aftermarket build |
| Platinum™ | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 standard, available panoramic fixed glass roof with power sunshade, 20" Luster Nickel wheels, adaptive headlamps, heated/ventilated/massaging front seats with leather inserts, B&O 14-speaker 980-watt sound system, BlueCruise with 1-year + 90-day plan included, available Lux Leather Package, PowerFold third-row seats | Luxury-minded buyers who want the most premium, refined Explorer interior with top-tier technology and upscale comfort from the first row to the third |
| Top Trim ST |
3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6 (400 hp / 415 lb-ft), sport-tuned suspension, 21" Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, quad-tipped exhaust, heated & ventilated front seats, red accent stitching, ambient lighting, BlueCruise equipped, PowerFold third-row seats | Performance SUV buyers who demand the most powerful, best-handling Explorer on the road — delivering genuine sport utility in a three-row package |
2026 Ford Explorer: Frequently Asked Questions
What engine options are available on the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer offers two engine choices. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque and comes on the Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum models. The available 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivers 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque — it's standard on the ST and available on the Tremor, making the Tremor the most powerful off-road Explorer ever offered.
How much can the 2026 Ford Explorer tow?
Every 2026 Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs, thanks to the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package included on all models. Standard features like Trailer Sway Control, Side-Wind Stabilization, and BLIS with Trailer Coverage help make towing easier and more confident. A Cloninger Ford of Morganton specialist can help match you with the right configuration for your specific towing needs.
What is the new 2026 Explorer Tremor, and how capable is it off-road?
The Tremor is a brand-new addition to the Explorer lineup for 2026, designed for drivers who want genuine off-road hardware from the factory. It features off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height (8.7" ground clearance), a Torsen limited-slip rear axle for enhanced traction, 18" Ebony Black wheels with Electric Spice accents, off-road auxiliary lights, and front and rear steel deflector plates. With the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing 400 hp, it's the most powerful and capable Explorer ever built for the trail.
Does the 2026 Explorer have hands-free driving technology?
Yes — the 2026 Explorer is available with Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving on ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST models, and it's optional on others. The 2026 version adds an Automatic Lane Change feature that can monitor traffic, initiate a lane change, pass a slower vehicle, and return to the original lane — all without touching the wheel or turn signal. Platinum includes a one-year + 90-day BlueCruise plan at no extra charge.
How many passengers and how much cargo space does the Explorer offer?
Most Explorer trims seat up to seven passengers across three rows. The Tremor model seats six. With all rows folded, cargo volume reaches up to 85.8 cu ft — plenty of room for sports gear, luggage, or a weekend's worth of supplies. Select trims include available PowerFold third-row seats that fold flat electronically for quick and easy cargo access without manual folding.
Can I find a 2026 Ford Explorer at Cloninger Ford of Morganton?
Absolutely — Cloninger Ford of Morganton carries a wide selection of 2026 Explorer trims and configurations to fit the needs of Burke County families, commuters, and outdoor adventurers. Because inventory moves quickly, we encourage you to browse our current online listings or contact our team directly to confirm specific trim availability. If your ideal build isn't on the lot, we're happy to assist with a factory order as well.