What Engines, Drivetrains, and Towing Capacities Power the 2026 Ford Explorer?

Under the hood, the 2026 Ford Explorer features a 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine delivering 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, with an optional 3.0L EcoBoost V6 pushing output to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. Both engines pair with a SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission and deliver a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.

Choosing the right powertrain depends on how you plan to use your SUV. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine powers the Active RWD 100A, Active RWD, Active 4WD 100A, Active 4WD, ST-LINE RWD, ST-LINE 4WD, and Tremor 4WD models. This turbocharged 4-cylinder delivers impressive low-end torque for quick acceleration while remaining efficient during daily commuting. Drivers wanting sports-car performance in a midsize family vehicle can opt for the high-output 3.0L EcoBoost V6, standard on the ST and ST 4WD trims and available on the Platinum and Platinum 4WD models. Additionally, specialized commercial variants like the Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 feature a 3.3L powertrain rated at 318 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Drivetrain configurations match different traction demands. Rear-wheel drive comes standard on the Active RWD, ST-LINE RWD, Platinum, and ST trims, while Intelligent 4WD is available across the lineup and standard on the Tremor 4WD, ST 4WD, and ST-LINE 4WD trims. When equipped with the factory Class III Trailer Tow Package, every retail 2026 Explorer achieves its full 5,000 lbstowing capacity. This rating defines how much weight your truck or SUV can safely pull down the highway, allowing you to haul campers, utility trailers, or personal watercraft without straining the drivetrain. Generous payload capacities ensure that heavy cargo and passenger loads remain stable over long distances. You can explore these capabilities in person by browsing our new Ford Explorer inventory online today.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

How Do Passenger and Cargo Space in the 2026 Ford Explorer Compare to the Toyota Highlander?

The 2026 Ford Explorer delivers up to about 86 cubic feet of total cargo volume behind the first row, edging out the Toyota Highlander's maximum capacity of about 84 cubic feet. With three rows of seating for six or seven passengers, the Explorer provides about 16 cubic feet of storage behind the third row and 46 cubic feet with the rear row folded flat.

Inside the cabin, overall passenger volume ranges from about 144 to 150 cubic feet depending on roof equipment and trim selection. Exterior dimensions measure approximately 199 inches in overall length and 79 inches in width, creating a wide stance that directly benefits interior shoulder room and hip room across all three rows. Compared to rivals like the Toyota Highlander, the Explorer offers easier third-row access thanks to second-row seats that slide forward in a single motion.

• Cargo Behind Row 3: About 16 cubic feet for grocery totes, backpacks, or sports equipment.
• Cargo Behind Row 2: 46 cubic feet with the 50/50 split-folding third row lowered flat.
• Max Cargo Volume: About 86 cubic feet when both second and third rows are folded flat.
• Passenger Seating: 6 passengers standard with second-row captain's chairs, or 7 passengers with the second-row 35/30/35 bench seat.

Whether heading across town along the Wabash River corridor in Terre Haute for university events or hauling sports gear for weekend games, the Explorer's wider cabin layout gives second- and third-row passengers room to stretch out without crowding bags in the back. When local buyers test-drive the Explorer, they often ask about the third-row fold sequence and second-row seat movement before checking cargo dimensions. If you are comparing midsize utility options or looking for larger commercial haulers, you can check out our F-250 Super Duty comparison guide, read our F-350 model comparison, or view our Ranger model comparison to find the right tool for your job site or family driveway.

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Offer Ford BlueCruise and Standard Digital Tech?

Select 2026 Ford Explorer trims like the ST-Line, Platinum, and ST come equipped with Ford BlueCruise, enabling hands-free highway driving. Standard technology across all trims includes the Ford Digital Experience centered around a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster.

Ford BlueCruise allows drivers to operate hands free on controlled-access highways known as Blue Zones, covering over 130,000 miles of mapped highways across North America. The system manages steering, braking, and lane centering while an infrared driver-facing camera monitors eye gaze to keep attention on the road. Key features included with Ford BlueCruise enhance highway convenience:

• Lane Change Assist: Initiates hands free lane changes when the driver taps the turn signal stalk and the adjacent lane is clear.
• In-Lane Repositioning: Subtly shifts the vehicle's lateral position within its lane to maintain extra physical buffer distance from large semi-trucks in adjacent lanes.
• Predictive Speed Assist: Smoothly adjusts vehicle speed automatically when approaching sharp highway curves.

In addition to driver-assist technologies, the cabin features integrated Google Assistant, Google Maps, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Over-the-air software updates keep the infotainment system current without requiring service center visits. For shoppers researching late-model pre-owned options equipped with advanced driver assistance, check out our selection of pre-owned vehicles to find great value on connected technology.

Is Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance Included with the 2026 Ford Explorer?

Ford does not include standard complimentary scheduled maintenance with the purchase of a 2026 Ford Explorer, but buyers earn Ford Rewards points upon vehicle purchase that can be applied toward initial factory maintenance visits. These points offset early oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections at authorized Ford service centers.

Understanding MSRP pricing structures helps buyers weigh vehicle value against long-term maintenance needs. Clear upfront pricing across the 2026 lineup includes:

• Active RWD 100A: Base MSRP of $38,465 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Active 4WD 100A: Base MSRP of $40,465 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Active RWD: Base MSRP of $40,585 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Active 4WD: Base MSRP of $42,585 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• ST-LINE RWD: Base MSRP of $45,155 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• ST-LINE 4WD: Base MSRP of $47,155 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Utility Police Interceptor 4x4: Base MSRP of $48,550 with a $1,695 destination charge.
• Tremor 4WD: Base MSRP of $48,965 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Platinum: Base MSRP of $50,965 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• Platinum 4WD: Base MSRP of $52,965 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• ST: Base MSRP of $54,905 with a $1,795 destination charge.
• ST 4WD: Base MSRP of $56,905 with a $1,795 destination charge.

Keeping up with scheduled maintenance ensures that family safety remains uncompromised and factory warranty coverage stays fully protected. Routine service intervals every 7,500 to 10,000 miles maintain engine health, fuel efficiency, and resale value over years of ownership. Because family comes first, keeping your vehicle in top condition is essential. You can easily schedule a service appointment online with our certified technicians or value your trade online to see how much equity you can apply toward your new purchase.

Pricing

Pricing by trim