2026 Ford Explorer FAQ: Specs, Trims, Features, and Answers for Every Shopper
The 2026 Ford Explorer seats 7 and delivers 300 hp from a standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. The ST trim upgrades to a 385-hp twin-turbo V6, giving shoppers a clear performance path. Every common question about trims, specs, and features is answered below, with inventory at Koons Ford.
2026 Ford Explorer research hub
Trims & Pricing
How many trims does the 2026 Ford Explorer come in?
Nine trims are available for the 2026 Explorer: Active 100A (RWD), Active (AWD), ST-Line (RWD), ST-Line (AWD), Tremor (AWD), Platinum (RWD), Platinum (AWD), ST (RWD), and ST (AWD). Each trim serves a distinct buyer, from the value-focused Active to the track-tuned ST.
What is the starting MSRP for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer starts at $38,465 MSRP for the Active 100A in RWD. The range extends to $56,905 for the fully equipped ST in AWD. Shoppers in Annapolis can check current Koons Ford Explorer inventory for in-stock pricing and available incentives.
Which trim should I choose if I want the most performance?
The ST trim is the right choice. It is the only trim where the 385-hp 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and 415 lb-ft of torque come standard. The ST also includes Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving as a standard feature and rides on 21-inch Magnetite-Painted wheels.
What is the difference between the Tremor and the ST?
The Tremor prioritizes off-road geometry. It carries an 8.7-inch minimum ground clearance (versus 7.8 inches on the ST), a 24.1-degree approach angle, and standard Intelligent 4WD with 18-inch Ebony Black-Painted wheels. The ST is optimized for on-road performance with the 385-hp V6, quad chrome exhaust tips, and sport-tuned calibration. Both sit above the ST-Line in the lineup.
Does the Explorer offer a rear-wheel-drive option?
Yes. RWD is the standard drivetrain on the Active 100A, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trims. Intelligent 4WD is available on most trims as an upgrade and is standard on the Tremor.
Performance & Capability
What engine does the 2026 Ford Explorer have?
The standard engine is a 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost I-4 producing 300 hp at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. The 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, rated at 385 hp and 415 lb-ft, is available on the Tremor and Platinum trims and is standard on the ST. Both engines use a 10-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy ratings for 2026 Ford Explorer
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Explorer?
The 2.3L EcoBoost returns 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined per EPA estimates. Fuel capacity with the 2.3L engine is 18.6 gallons, and the V6 carries a 20.2-gallon tank.
How much can the 2026 Ford Explorer tow?
The 2026 Explorer tows up to 5,000 lbs. The Terrain Management System includes a dedicated Tow/Haul drive mode, and AdvanceTrac with Trailer Sway Control is standard across all trims.
What drive modes does the Explorer offer?
The Terrain Management System provides up to 6 drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail/Off-Road. The Trail/Off-Road mode is particularly relevant for buyers in the Annapolis area who want capability on unpaved surfaces during beach trips or weekend getaways.
How much cargo space does the 2026 Explorer have?
Behind the third row, cargo volume is 16.3 cu ft. Fold the third row and it grows to 46 cu ft behind the second row. With all rear seats folded, maximum cargo space reaches 85.8 cu ft (85.3 cu ft on the ST, Platinum, and Tremor).
Features & Technology
What tech features come standard on the 2026 Explorer?
Every 2026 Explorer includes a 13.2-inch SYNC touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control, and SiriusXM with 360L Radio. These features are standard across all trim levels.
Does the 2026 Explorer have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Both are standard on every trim and connect wirelessly, so no cable is required.
What sound system options are available?
The ST-Line trim includes a 10-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen as standard equipment. Higher trims offer an available 980-watt, 14-speaker B&O system for a significantly more powerful audio setup.
Does the 2026 Explorer offer hands-free driving?
Yes. Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is standard on the ST and Platinum trims. It is available as an option on the ST-Line and Tremor. BlueCruise operates on pre-mapped highways and allows true hands-free driving at highway speeds.
Does the Explorer come with a panoramic roof?
A panoramic fixed glass roof is available on all trims except the Active 100A. It is not a convertible or sliding design, but it adds significant natural light to the cabin across both front and rear seating rows.
Is wireless charging available?
Yes, wireless charging is available on the 2026 Explorer. Confirm availability on your specific trim of interest by checking current inventory at Koons Ford.
2026 Ford Explorer technology features
Safety & Driver Assistance
What safety features are standard on every 2026 Explorer?
Standard safety features include Forward Collision Warning with Pedestrian Detection, Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Emergency Steering Assist, Lane-Centering Steering, Blind Spot Monitors, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Driver-Attention Monitor, Road-Sign Recognition, Rear Parking Sensors, Automatic High Beams, and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Trailer Sway Control.
Does the Explorer have a 360-degree camera?
Yes. Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with a 360-degree camera is standard on the ST-Line trim and all trims above it. The Active trim does not include this feature as standard.
Does the Explorer have lane-keeping assistance?
Yes. Lane-Centering Steering is standard on every 2026 Explorer trim, actively helping to keep the vehicle centered in the lane at highway speeds.
Dimensions & Passenger Space
How many people does the 2026 Explorer seat?
Seven. The Explorer has three rows, with the third row offering 38.9 inches of headroom and 31.8 inches of leg room. Second-row leg room is 37.5 inches on the Active and ST-Line trims (37.0 inches on the ST, Platinum, and Tremor).
How long is the 2026 Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer measures 198.7 inches in overall length on a 119.1-inch wheelbase. Width excluding mirrors is 78.9 inches. Height is 69.6 inches on the base trims, rising to 70.8 inches on the Tremor due to increased ground clearance.
What is the ground clearance on the 2026 Explorer?
Minimum running ground clearance is 7.6 inches on the standard trims, 7.8 inches on the ST, 8.3 inches on the Platinum, and 8.7 inches on the Tremor. The Tremor's geometry also includes a 24.1-degree approach angle and an 18.7-degree ramp breakover angle.
What is the curb weight of the 2026 Explorer?
The base curb weight is 4,312 lbs for the 2.3L RWD configuration.
Buying at Koons Ford
Where can I find 2026 Ford Explorer inventory near Annapolis?
Koons Ford carries 2026 Explorer inventory in Annapolis, MD. You can browse all available configurations, trims, and colors at the link below, or contact the dealership directly to confirm specific availability.
Does Koons Ford offer trade-in valuations?
Yes. Koons Ford provides trade-in valuations that can be applied toward the purchase of a new 2026 Explorer. Use the trade value tool below to get an estimate before you visit.
Can I schedule a test drive for the 2026 Explorer?
Yes. Scheduling is available online or by contacting the dealership. A test drive is the most direct way to compare the Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and ST trims side by side.
Get Your 2026 Explorer at Koons Ford in Annapolis
The 2026 Ford Explorer covers a wide range of buyer needs, from the efficient 300-hp EcoBoost entry trims through the trail-ready Tremor to the 385-hp ST. Koons Ford in Annapolis stocks the full lineup so shoppers in the area can see, compare, and drive the exact trim that fits their priorities. Check live inventory below or bring your trade and drive home in the right Explorer today.
