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2026 Ford Explorer Review - Bold Design, Hybrid Power, and High-Tech Family SUV

2026 Ford Explorer Review - The iconic three-row SUV that continues to evolve with American families in mind. From its rugged styling to updated technology and available hybrid powertrain, the 2026 Explorer is all about versatility, capability, and comfort.

Whether you're a weekend warrior or daily commuter, this Explorer is your next SUV.

Exterior Design

 The 2026 Ford Explorer gets a more refined and athletic design this year:

  • A larger front grille with a bold new mesh pattern
  • Slimmer LED headlights with an updated light signature
  • A refreshed rear with redesigned LED taillights and a more sculpted tailgate
  • New wheel designs ranging from 18 to 21 inches, depending on the trim
  • Available blackout appearance packages and ST-Line styling upgrades

The Explorer strikes a balance between family-friendly practicality and sporty SUV presence.

Interior & Tech

Inside, the 2026 Explorer puts comfort and connectivity front and center:

  • A massive 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen is now standard on most trims
  • Standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Amazon Alexa Built-in
  • Optional panoramic moonroof, ambient lighting, and B&O premium audio
  • Seating for up to 7 passengers, with second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat
  • Available heated and ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and rear climate control
  • Upgraded materials on higher trims like Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum

It’s a tech-focused cabin built for comfort and long road trips.

Performance & Powertrains

Ford gives you multiple engine choices for the 2026 Explorer:

🔹 Base Engine:

  • 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque
  • Smooth and capable for everyday driving with up to 5,300 lbs of towing capacity

🔹 Upgraded Engine:

  • 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, 400 hp in the Explorer ST
  • Perfect for performance enthusiasts who want muscle in an SUV

🔋 Hybrid Option:

  • 3.3L V6 hybrid system, delivering over 320 hp
  • Ideal for efficiency-minded drivers without sacrificing power
  • Estimated 27 MPG combined, available with RWD or AWD

All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available Intelligent AWD with Terrain Management System.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360™ suite, including:

  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Lane-Keeping System and Post-Collision Braking
  • Available Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane-Centering
  • New 360-degree camera system with split-view
  • Optional Active Park Assist 2.0 for effortless parallel parking

Expect 5-star crash test ratings and top IIHS safety scores.

Trims & Pricing

The 2026 Explorer comes in a wide range of trims to suit every lifestyle:

  • Base – Smart and affordable, starting around $38,000
  • XLT – A perfect balance of features and value
  • ST-Line – Sporty appearance with upgraded tech
  • Limited & Platinum – Luxury appointments and advanced safety
  • ST – High-performance 3-row SUV with aggressive styling
  • Timberline – Rugged, off-road-ready with increased ground clearance
  • Hybrid Limited – Efficiency meets upscale design

Fully loaded, the Platinum or ST models can reach up to $58,000. 

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