Exterior Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer undergoes a significant redesign, sporting a bold and refreshed exterior that enhances its overall aesthetic appeal. The new design incorporates several notable updates, including a redesigned grille, headlights, and taillights.
The front fascia of the Explorer features a redesigned grille that is larger and more imposing than before. The grille is flanked by new LED headlights that are sleeker and more angular, giving the Explorer a more aggressive appearance. The lower bumper has also been redesigned, featuring a new air dam and fog lights.
Taillights
The rear of the Explorer also receives a redesign, with new taillights that are wider and more horizontal than before. The taillights feature a new LED light signature that is more distinctive and eye-catching. The rear bumper has also been redesigned, featuring a new diffuser and exhaust tips.
Interior Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer’s interior design has undergone a significant transformation, with a focus on enhancing comfort, functionality, and technology integration.
The cabin features a new dashboard layout with a sleek, horizontal design. The center console has been redesigned to provide more storage space and easier access to controls. The seats have been redesigned for improved comfort and support, and are available in a variety of materials, including leather, cloth, and vinyl.
Materials, Colors, and Textures
The Explorer’s interior is now available in a wider range of colors and materials, including new leather and fabric options. The cabin is also adorned with new textures and finishes, such as wood grain and metal accents. These elements combine to create a more luxurious and sophisticated interior environment.
Technology Integration
The 2026 Explorer is equipped with Ford’s latest SYNC 4 infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen display and voice-activated controls. The system includes a variety of features, including navigation, music streaming, and smartphone integration. The Explorer also offers a variety of driver-assist features, such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
Performance and Handling
The 2026 Ford Explorer is powered by a variety of engines, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0-liter EcoBoost produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The 3.3-liter hybrid V6 produces a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
The Explorer’s handling has been improved for 2026 thanks to a number of changes, including a new independent rear suspension and a revised front suspension. These changes provide the Explorer with better stability and cornering ability. The Explorer also features a number of new or updated features that enhance the driving experience, such as a new adaptive cruise control system, a lane keeping assist system, and a blind spot monitoring system.
Engine Options
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a variety of engine options to meet the needs of different drivers. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
For more power, drivers can opt for the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It is also paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The most fuel-efficient engine option is the 3.3-liter hybrid V6 engine. This engine produces a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Technology and Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes equipped with a host of cutting-edge technology and features that enhance convenience, safety, and connectivity. The centerpiece of the Explorer’s technological suite is the new Sync 5 infotainment system, which features a user-friendly interface, intuitive voice controls, and a host of connected services.
Infotainment System
The Sync 5 infotainment system is accessible through a large touchscreen display mounted on the center console. The system offers a wide range of features, including:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Streaming music and podcasts
- Voice-activated controls
The Sync 5 system also includes a suite of connected services, such as remote start, vehicle tracking, and roadside assistance. These services can be accessed through the FordPass app, which allows you to control your Explorer from anywhere.
Safety Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure warning with lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Evasive steering assist
These features help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road by providing alerts and intervening in potentially dangerous situations.
Driver Assistance Systems
The 2026 Ford Explorer also offers a variety of driver assistance systems that can make your drive easier and more enjoyable. These systems include:
- Adaptive cruise control with lane centering
- Traffic sign recognition
- Head-up display
- 360-degree camera system
- Active park assist
These systems can help you stay in your lane, maintain a safe following distance, and park your vehicle with ease.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Ford Explorer is expected to be available in a variety of trim levels, each with its own unique set of features and pricing. The base XL trim is expected to start at around $35,000, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim is expected to start at around $60,000.
The Explorer is expected to be released in late 2025 and will be available at Ford dealerships nationwide.
Trim Levels
- XL: The base XL trim comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, 18-inch wheels, and a cloth interior.
- XLT: The XLT trim adds features such as a 3.3-liter V6 engine, 20-inch wheels, and a leather-trimmed interior.
- Limited: The Limited trim adds features such as a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, 21-inch wheels, and a heated and cooled front seats.
- Platinum: The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line trim and comes with features such as a 3.5-liter V6 engine, 22-inch wheels, and a panoramic sunroof.
FAQs
When will the 2026 Ford Explorer be released?
The official release date for the 2026 Ford Explorer has yet to be announced, but it is anticipated to arrive in dealerships sometime in 2025.
What engine options will be available for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer is expected to offer a range of engine options, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine, and a hybrid powertrain.
What new technology features will be included in the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer will feature an array of advanced technology features, such as a 12.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver assistance systems.