The automotive industry is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming release of the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. This highly anticipated vehicle promises to combine the rugged capabilities of a pickup truck with the comfort and versatility of an SUV. With its impressive features, sleek design, and cutting-edge technology, the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is poised to make a significant impact in the midsize pickup truck market.
Get ready to explore the uncharted territories of adventure and utility with the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac. Its robust engine, advanced safety features, and spacious interior make it the perfect companion for both work and play.
Key Features and Specifications
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a blend of rugged capability and everyday practicality. It comes with a powerful engine, impressive fuel efficiency, and advanced off-road features.
Under the hood, the Explorer Sport Trac is powered by a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that generates 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive, with optional all-wheel drive available. The Sport Trac offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,650 pounds.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Explorer Sport Trac achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive. With all-wheel drive, the fuel economy drops slightly to 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
For off-road enthusiasts, the Explorer Sport Trac comes equipped with a Terrain Management System that offers multiple drive modes to optimize performance on different surfaces. It also features a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and skid plates for added protection.
Comparison to Competitors
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac competes with other mid-size pickup trucks in the market, such as the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Toyota Tacoma. Here is a table comparing some of the key specifications of these vehicles:
| Ford Explorer Sport Trac | Chevrolet Colorado | GMC Canyon | Toyota Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | 2.5L I-4 | 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 200 hp | 181 hp | 278 hp |
| Torque | 415 lb-ft | 191 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft | 265 lb-ft |
| Towing Capacity | 6,500 lbs | 7,700 lbs | 7,700 lbs | 6,800 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,650 lbs | 1,550 lbs | 1,620 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| Fuel Economy (city/highway) | 19/25 mpg | 19/25 mpg | 18/25 mpg | 18/23 mpg |
Design and Exterior
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a bold and rugged pickup truck that combines the functionality of a truck with the comfort and style of an SUV. Its muscular stance, sharp lines, and aggressive grille give it a commanding presence on the road. The sleek headlights and stylish wheels add a touch of sophistication to its rugged exterior.
Body Lines
The Explorer Sport Trac features sharp and angular body lines that accentuate its muscular physique. The sloping roofline and raked windshield create a dynamic profile, while the flared fenders and pronounced wheel arches give it a powerful and athletic stance.
Grille
The massive grille of the Explorer Sport Trac is a dominant feature that exudes both power and sophistication. The bold horizontal bars and the prominent Ford logo make an unmistakable statement. The black honeycomb mesh adds a touch of aggression and complements the truck’s rugged exterior.
Headlights
The sleek headlights of the Explorer Sport Trac are designed to provide excellent visibility while adding to its stylish appearance. The projector-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights offer a wide and bright beam pattern, ensuring clear vision even in challenging lighting conditions.
Wheels
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac comes equipped with stylish and rugged wheels that enhance its overall aesthetics. The 20-inch alloy wheels feature a multi-spoke design with a dark finish, adding a touch of sportiness to the truck’s exterior. The all-terrain tires provide excellent traction and grip on various surfaces, making the Explorer Sport Trac capable of handling both on-road and off-road adventures.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is designed to be spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to five passengers. The front seats are heated and cooled, and the driver’s seat has power adjustment. The rear seats are split-folding, allowing for a variety of cargo configurations.
The infotainment system in the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is easy to use and features a 12-inch touchscreen. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a variety of other features, such as navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac comes standard with a variety of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The truck also has a blind spot monitoring system and a rearview camera.
Key Interior and Technology Features
The following table summarizes the key interior and technology features of the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac:
| Feature | Description |
|—|—|
| Seating | Seating for up to five passengers |
| Front seats | Heated and cooled, with power adjustment |
| Rear seats | Split-folding |
| Infotainment system | 12-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Safety features | Lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring system, and rearview camera |
Performance and Handling
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac boasts an impressive performance and handling package that combines power, agility, and stability. Its robust engine delivers exhilarating acceleration, while the advanced braking system provides precise control and confidence during high-speed driving. The vehicle’s sophisticated suspension system ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough terrain, enhancing overall driving dynamics.
Acceleration
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is equipped with a powerful engine that generates ample torque, enabling it to accelerate swiftly from a standstill. The vehicle’s responsive throttle and quick-shifting transmission work in harmony to deliver a thrilling driving experience, making it ideal for merging onto highways or overtaking other vehicles.
Braking
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac features an advanced braking system that provides exceptional stopping power and control. Its large disc brakes at all four wheels ensure consistent and reliable braking performance, even under challenging conditions. The vehicle’s stability control system further enhances braking effectiveness by preventing wheel lock-up and maintaining directional stability during emergency maneuvers.
Cornering
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac exhibits remarkable cornering abilities thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. The vehicle’s body roll is effectively controlled, allowing for precise handling and responsive steering. The Sport Trac’s wide stance and low center of gravity further contribute to its stability and agility, inspiring confidence when navigating winding roads or tackling sharp corners.
Video Demonstration
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Pricing and Availability
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is anticipated to hit the market with a starting price of around £32,000 for the base XL trim. The higher trims, such as the XLT, Limited, and Platinum, are expected to come with more features and amenities, and their prices will likely increase accordingly.
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is expected to go on sale in the latter half of 2025, so interested buyers can expect to see it in dealerships by the end of the year or early 2026.
Competitor Comparison
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac will face competition from other midsize pickup trucks, such as the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Toyota Tacoma. Here’s a table comparing their starting prices:
| Vehicle | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XL | £32,000 |
| 2026 Chevrolet Colorado WT | £31,000 |
| 2026 GMC Canyon Elevation Standard | £32,500 |
| 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR | £33,000 |
Expert Reviews and Comparisons
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has garnered significant attention from automotive experts and enthusiasts alike. Reviews have lauded its impressive capabilities, while comparative analyses have highlighted its strengths and weaknesses against its rivals.
Expert reviews have praised the Sport Trac’s versatility, noting its spacious cabin, ample cargo capacity, and robust towing capabilities. The vehicle’s rugged design and off-road prowess have also received positive feedback. However, some reviewers have pointed out that the Sport Trac’s fuel economy could be improved.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to its key competitors, the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac holds its own in several aspects. It offers a more spacious cabin than the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado, while its towing capacity rivals that of the GMC Canyon. However, the Sport Trac’s off-road capabilities may fall short of the Jeep Gladiator, which is renowned for its extreme terrain performance.
Target Audience and Marketing Strategy
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac targets adventure-seeking individuals and families who prioritize versatility, performance, and style. These are typically active folks who enjoy outdoor activities, road trips, and towing heavy loads. They value vehicles that combine practicality with a touch of ruggedness.
Marketing Strategy
Ford’s marketing strategy for the Explorer Sport Trac will revolve around showcasing its versatility and capabilities. The key messaging will emphasize the vehicle’s spacious interior, towing capacity, and off-road prowess. The campaign will utilize a mix of traditional and digital channels, including:
- Television and print advertising
- Social media marketing
- Online video content
- Partnerships with outdoor lifestyle influencers
- Test drive events at adventure-themed locations
Future Outlook and Competition
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is poised to make a significant impact in the midsize pickup truck market. With its rugged design, versatile capabilities, and advanced technology, it is expected to capture a substantial market share. The competitive landscape is intensifying, with established players like the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, as well as newer entrants such as the Jeep Gladiator and Rivian R1T.
Competitive Landscape
The midsize pickup truck market is highly competitive, with each manufacturer vying for a slice of the pie. The Chevrolet Colorado has consistently ranked among the top sellers, offering a blend of off-road capability and everyday practicality. The GMC Canyon is its close cousin, sharing many of the same strengths and features. The Jeep Gladiator stands out with its iconic styling and legendary off-road prowess. The Rivian R1T is an electric newcomer that has garnered much attention with its futuristic design and impressive performance.
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac enters this competitive fray with a unique combination of attributes. Its spacious cabin and versatile bed make it ideal for both work and play. The advanced technology and safety features set it apart from the competition. Ford’s strong brand recognition and loyal customer base are also expected to contribute to its success.
FAQ Summary
What are the key features of the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac boasts an impressive array of features, including a powerful engine, advanced safety technologies, a spacious and versatile interior, and a sleek and rugged exterior design.
How does the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac compare to its competitors?
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac stands out from its competitors with its unique combination of capabilities and features. It offers a compelling blend of power, versatility, and technology, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a vehicle that can handle both work and play.
What is the target audience for the New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac?
The New 2026 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is designed to appeal to a wide range of individuals and families. It is an excellent choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle both work and recreational activities. Its versatility and rugged capabilities make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, contractors, and families who value both functionality and style.