A Closer Look at the 2026 Ford Explorer
If you’re researching your next three-row SUV and want a confident, well-rounded choice you can buy online with ease, the 2026 Ford Explorer® deserves a top spot on your list. From its strong standard power to available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, this SUV blends daily comfort and modern tech with the practical capability Michigan drivers count on. As a local buying guide, this page brings together the features and trim details shoppers ask about most, so you can quickly determine whether the 2026 Explorer aligns with your needs—then take the next step with our team at Lasco Ford near Highland, MI.
The 2026 Explorer lineup covers a broad range—from the well-equipped Active models to the athletic ST and the trail-ready Tremor®. Families appreciate the available seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space, while weekend plans benefit from up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. Add in Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist technologies and the optional Ford Digital Experience, and you have a three-row SUV designed to make every mile feel seamless, purposeful, and connected.
Performance and Capability for Every Mile
The 2026 Ford Explorer is designed around a capable, rear-wheel-drive foundation with available Intelligent 4WD, so you get confident handling in varied conditions and a solid base for towing. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 delivers refined punch for commuting and highway passing, while models equipped with the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 can reach a maximum available 400 horsepower for decisive acceleration. With up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped, bringing a family boat or a compact camper is well within reach. Selectable drive modes add everyday versatility, and if your plans include unpaved roads or trailheads, the available Tremor® model brings underbody protection, a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, and off-road-tuned suspension to elevate traction and confidence.
Interior Comfort and Technology
- Seating capacity: Up to seven with flexible second- and third-row configurations
- Cargo space: Up to 85.8 cu ft (maximum) for strollers, gear, and luggage
- Digital experience: Ford Digital Experience integrates your favorite apps and services
- Audio upgrade: Available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with rich, balanced output
- Hands-free tech: Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving for supported roadways
- Connectivity: Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi® hotspot capability and over-the-air updates
- Convenience touches: Available heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats
Inside, the 2026 Explorer focuses on modern comfort and smart usability. The cabin is spacious and thoughtfully laid out, with controls placed where you expect them and generous small-item storage throughout. Available amenities like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats with leather inserts bring a premium feel to daily driving. The available Ford Digital Experience adds streamlined access to the apps and content you prefer, while the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® provides a clean, high-fidelity soundtrack for your commutes and road trips. With available seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo capacity, the third-row flexibility makes it easy to adapt your Explorer for carpool days, weekend getaways, or runs to your favorite local spots around Highland, MI.
Safety and Driver Assist Features
- Standard suite: Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies for added confidence
- Adaptive cruising: Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ including Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane support: Lane-Keeping System to help you stay centered
- Collision alert: Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Parking vision: Available 360-Degree Camera for around-vehicle views
- Blind spot alerts: BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Highway assist: Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving (select trims)
Every 2026 Explorer comes with Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies designed to support your awareness and reduce fatigue on busy routes. Available Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds Adaptive Cruise Control to help maintain distance in traffic, while the available 360-Degree Camera system makes tight parking and backing up more intuitive. On select trims, BlueCruise offers hands-free highway driving on compatible roadways, assisting with steering, acceleration, and braking while you keep your eyes on the road. It’s a smart, confidence-boosting approach to safety that integrates seamlessly into everyday driving.
2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
| Trim | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Active 100A | 2.3L EcoBoost engine; Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+; Selectable drive modes; Class III Trailer Tow Package |
| Active | 2.3L EcoBoost engine; Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+; Heated front-row seats; Power liftgate |
| ST-Line | 2.3L EcoBoost engine; 360-Degree Camera; Unique durable cloth-trimmed seats with red stitching; B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® |
| Tremor® | Available 3.0L EcoBoost engine; Torsen® limited-slip rear axle; Off-road tuned suspension; Underbody protection |
| Platinum™ | 2.3L EcoBoost engine; BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped; Heated, ventilated, massaging front-row seats; Available panoramic fixed glass roof |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost engine; BlueCruise equipped; Sport-tuned suspension; Performance brakes with red-painted calipers |
Why Buy from Lasco Ford near Highland, MI
We’re committed to making your Explorer shopping experience smooth and straightforward. From accurate walkarounds to transparent communication, our team focuses on what matters most to Highland drivers—efficiency, trust, and a test drive route that actually reflects local roads. When it’s time for service, we support you with Ford-trained technicians, genuine parts, and available Ford Pickup & Delivery to help you save time. Whether you start from home or visit our showroom, we’ll meet you where you are in your research and buying journey.
- Local convenience: Quick drive from Highland via M-59/US-23 with easy on-site parking
- Explorer expertise: Product specialists who know the 2026 Explorer lineup inside and out
- Streamlined process: Online buying tools, video walkarounds, and remote paperwork options
- Pickup & Delivery: Ford Pickup & Delivery available for select service needs
- Certified service: Ford-trained technicians and genuine Ford parts
- Flexible financing: Dedicated team for a wide range of credit scenarios
- Trade support: Instant online trade valuations to simplify your upgrade
Value Your Trade with Lasco Ford
Upgrading to a 2026 Ford Explorer is even easier when you use our trade-in resources. Start with our online valuation tool to estimate your vehicle’s worth in minutes, then apply your trade-in toward your new Explorer to simplify the transaction. Upload a few details and photos, and our team will follow up to confirm the value. We can also provide a detailed appraisal in-store and help you explore options to maximize your equity.
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How the 2026 Ford Explorer Stands Out
- Rear-drive foundation: RWD architecture with available Intelligent 4WD supports towing and balanced handling
- Available 400 hp: Strong, confident acceleration that outmuscles many rivals’ top trims
- Hands-free driving: Available BlueCruise offers highway assistance many competitors don’t match
- Off-road focus: Tremor® model brings Torsen® LSD, underbody protection, and tuned suspension
- Premium amenities: Available massaging front seats are rare in the three-row mainstream class
- Cabin flexibility: Up to 85.8 cu ft cargo volume with easy-fold seating
Compared with other three-row SUVs, the 2026 Explorer puts capability first. Its rear-wheel-drive foundation gives it a stable, planted feel—especially helpful when towing up to 5,000 pounds or merging onto I-96 or US-23 near Highland. The available 3.0L EcoBoost engine can deliver up to 400 horsepower, offering stronger top-end performance than many competitors. On the tech front, available BlueCruise brings hands-free highway assistance to select trims, while some alternatives rely only on lane centering and adaptive cruise. And if you’re seeking an adventure-ready build, Explorer Tremor® pairs available V6 power with a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle and underbody protection—hardware that many family-focused rivals simply don’t offer. Inside, available massaging front seats and upscale touches provide comfort and polish for daily carpools and weekend trips alike.
Next Steps for Your 2026 Ford Explorer Search
Ready to move from research to action? Browse our 2026 Ford Explorer inventory to see colors and trims available now, schedule a test drive that matches your commute, and apply for financing online to save time at delivery. Use our trade-in tool to estimate your current vehicle’s value and contact our team for a personalized walkaround video or answers to any remaining questions. We’ll help you compare trims, choose options, and map out the best path to your new Explorer.
Proudly Serving Highland, MI Drivers
From school-day drop-offs along Highland Road to weekend drives toward the lakes and local parks, the 2026 Ford Explorer is built to fit Southeast Michigan life. Our team understands local routes, weather, and towing needs, and we’re here to match you with the right powertrain and features for your daily drive. When you’re ready to shop for a 2026 Ford Explorer near Highland, MI, we’ll make the process straightforward—online or in our showroom—with the support you expect from a dedicated local Ford partner.
*Vehicle images and features shown are for illustration only and may vary by trim and option.
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