The Ford Explorer is a popular mainstay in the 3-row midsize SUV segment, having sold over 125,000 units in the first half of this year alone. It has been a presence on American roads since the 1990s. The Explorer has remained a sales success during the past 35 years by growing in size and evolving to match the needs of shoppers. Here are our three favorite things about the 2026 Ford Explorer.
Wide Range of Trims
Ford offers the Explorer in sporty, rugged, value-minded, and near-luxury trims, so there’s something for just about everyone. The newest trim level, the Tremor, has an off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, 18-inch all-terrain tires, and more. And both of the Explorer’s engines are potent. Four trim levels come standard with a peppy 300-hp turbo 4-cylinder engine. A terrific 400-hp twin-turbo V6 comes standard with the sportiest trim, the ST, and is optional in the Tremor and Platinum trims.
Excellent Tech
The Explorer’s recently redesigned interior includes helpful tech, including a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless smartphone charging, and the Ford Digital Experience with Google Maps and apps. This, in addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Ford Co-Pilot360 is a suite of driver assists that includes several safety features. And BlueCruise is Ford’s excellent hands-free driving system that can reduce fatigue and stress on the open road.
Comfortable, Quiet Highway Ride
The Explorer is a family cruiser, and it’s hard to be a vehicle that’s as popular as the Explorer without a comfortable ride. Its suspension is compliant, and the cabin is pleasantly quiet. That combination makes this a road trip vehicle that all seven aboard will enjoy. In addition to impressive comfort levels, its standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) and optional rear-biased all-wheel drive (AWD) system make it one of the more engaging SUVs in its class, regardless of trim.
Read More on the 2026 Ford Explorer
Read our full review of the Ford Explorer, find this week’s Fair Purchase Price, or see Ford Explorer models for sale near you.
