Get ready to embark on an automotive journey as we delve into the world of the 2026 Ford Explorer. This highly anticipated SUV promises to redefine the midsize segment with its cutting-edge features, exceptional performance, and unwavering commitment to safety and comfort. Join us as we explore the depths of this automotive marvel, uncovering its secrets and unraveling its potential.
The Ford Explorer has a rich history of innovation and adventure. Since its inception, it has consistently pushed the boundaries of SUV design and capability. With the 2026 model, Ford takes this legacy to new heights, offering a vehicle that seamlessly blends ruggedness, sophistication, and technological prowess.
Vehicle Overview
The 2026 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that combines rugged capability with modern style and technology. It offers a spacious cabin, powerful engines, and advanced safety features, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Explorer has been a staple in the Ford lineup since 1990, and the 2026 model represents the sixth generation of this popular SUV. It has undergone a significant redesign, featuring a bolder exterior, a more refined interior, and a host of new features.
Key Features
- Rugged exterior with a bold grille and muscular lines
- Spacious cabin with seating for up to seven passengers
- Powerful engines, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost and a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6
- Advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning
- Available all-wheel drive for improved traction in all conditions
Performance and Handling
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, each delivering impressive performance. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for everyday driving and towing needs. For those seeking more power, the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers exceptional acceleration and towing capacity. The Explorer also offers a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, providing a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain offers improved fuel efficiency while maintaining ample power.
The Explorer’s handling is characterized by its responsive steering, well-balanced suspension, and composed body control. The standard suspension system provides a comfortable ride, while the available adaptive suspension system adjusts to road conditions, enhancing handling and stability. The Explorer also features advanced driver-assist technologies, such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, which contribute to a confident and controlled driving experience.
Fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen engine and drivetrain. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The hybrid powertrain achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Explorer also meets stringent emission standards, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Interior and Comfort
The 2026 Ford Explorer boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior designed to accommodate passengers in comfort and style.
Seating and Space
The Explorer offers ample seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. The first and second rows provide generous legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The third row, while slightly more cramped, is still suitable for occasional use.
Interior Materials and Features
The interior of the Explorer is crafted from high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and wood accents. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing excellent comfort for both driver and passengers.
Technological Amenities
The Explorer comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of technological amenities, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive, offering a wide range of entertainment and connectivity options.
Driver Assistance Technologies
The Explorer also features a range of driver assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience. These include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Exterior and Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer boasts a bold and rugged exterior design that exudes both style and functionality. Measuring 198.3 inches in length, 78.9 inches in width, and 70.6 inches in height, it offers ample space for passengers and cargo. The Explorer’s body style is characterized by its muscular stance, sharp lines, and aerodynamic curves.
Grille and Headlights
The front fascia of the Explorer is dominated by a large, hexagonal grille with a mesh insert. The grille is flanked by sleek LED headlights that feature integrated daytime running lights. The headlights are designed to provide excellent visibility and enhance the vehicle’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Safety and Reliability
The 2026 Ford Explorer has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system.
The Explorer has a good reliability history. According to J.D. Power, the 2023 Explorer received a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. This is slightly above average for the industry. There have been no major safety concerns reported for the Explorer.
The 2026 Explorer comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Maintenance costs for the Explorer are estimated to be around £500 per year.
Price and Availability
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes in a variety of trim levels and configurations, with prices ranging from £35,000 to £55,000. The base model, the Explorer S, comes with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine and rear-wheel drive. The mid-level Explorer XLT adds features such as a power liftgate and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line Explorer Platinum comes with a 3.0-litre EcoBoost engine and all-wheel drive.
The 2026 Ford Explorer is available in both the UK and Europe. It is expected to go on sale in the UK in early 2026. Ford is offering a variety of special promotions and incentives for the 2026 Explorer, including a £2,000 discount for early orders.
Common Queries
What are the key features of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer boasts an array of advanced features, including a powerful engine lineup, a sophisticated infotainment system, and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies.
How does the 2026 Ford Explorer compare to its competitors?
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and safety, making it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment. It compares favorably to rivals such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
What are the fuel efficiency ratings of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a range of fuel-efficient engine options, with estimated ratings varying depending on the specific configuration. Detailed fuel economy figures will be released closer to the vehicle’s launch.
