2026 Ford Explorer: Built for Weekday Commutes and Weekend Detours
The 2026 Ford Explorer brings three-row versatility, strong turbocharged performance, and an expanded range of technology to drivers shopping at Hall Ford Elizabeth City. With seating for up to seven, a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, and configurations ranging from the well-equipped Active to the performance-oriented ST and trail-ready Tremor®, the 2026 Ford Explorer is built to handle daily routines and longer adventures with equal confidence.
New Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer lineup adds the Tremor®, an off-road-focused model with standard Intelligent 4WD, a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, all-terrain tires, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. A panoramic fixed glass roof is newly available across the lineup, while available Ford BlueCruise adds Automatic Lane Change to help this new Ford SUV manage certain lane changes hands-free on compatible divided highways.
Power and Performance
Most 2026 Ford Explorer models use a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® I-4 producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The 2026 Ford Explorer ST uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 rated at 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque; that engine is also available on the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor®. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many configurations, while Intelligent 4WD is available or standard depending on model and powertrain.
Towing and Cargo Capacity
Every 2026 Ford Explorer includes a Class III Tow Package and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Cargo volume measures 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 85.8 cubic feet behind the first row on Active and ST-Line models. ST, Platinum™, and Tremor® models provide up to 85.3 cubic feet.
Interior
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers three rows of seating for six or seven passengers, depending on configuration. Second-row captain's chairs are standard on most models, while a bench seat is available on select trims. Available amenities include heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, multicontour front seats with Active Motion®, multicolor ambient lighting, and a PowerFold® third row on select models.
Technology Features
A 13.2-inch center touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster anchor the 2026 Ford Explorer interior. Ford Digital Experience® supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, Google Maps, Google Assistant, downloadable Google Play™ apps, and connected entertainment features. Available Ford BlueCruise® adds hands-free highway driving capability on designated Blue Zone highways, while higher trims offer B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® audio.
Safety Features
Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ is standard on the 2026 Ford Explorer and includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, and Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking. Depending on trim, the 2026 Ford Explorer also offers a 360-Degree Camera, Reverse Brake Assist, and additional parking assistance features.
Test-Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer in Elizabeth City
See how the 2026 Ford Explorer fits your family, commute, and weekend plans with a test drive at our Ford dealership in Elizabeth City. Our team can help you compare trims, review available features, and explore Ford financing or leasing options for this SUV so you can choose the configuration that works best for your needs.
