Ford Explorer (2026)
Sporty, tech-rich, and capable, though its cramped third row limits family practicality.
The 2026 Ford Explorer is the sporty family SUV for drivers who need three rows, towing ability, and modern tech without settling for a dull commute. Its 300-hp turbo-four feels quick and smooth, while the available V6 makes the ST genuinely rapid. Experts and owners also praise its composed ride, responsive screens, BlueCruise, and 5,000-pound towing capacity, supporting Ford’s versatility pitch. The new Tremor adds credible light off-road hardware, but it is not a hardcore trail machine. The catch is clear: the third row is cramped, cargo space dwindles with all seats occupied, and upper trims can feel expensive beside roomier rivals. Overall value depends on prioritizing performance and capability over maximum space, efficiency, and polish, the key factors shaping its recommendation.
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Benefits
Supportive front seats and a composed ride make long commutes and road trips easier.
Large screens, wireless smartphone support, and responsive controls keep everyday driving simple.
The turbo four-cylinder feels strong in traffic, on hills, and while carrying passengers.
Properly equipped, it handles family gear, small boats, and campers without feeling underpowered.
Available BlueCruise and broad driver assistance reduce workload on long, familiar highway drives.
Trade-Offs
Adults may feel boxed in during longer rides, while third-row access and cushioning add discomfort.
With all three rows occupied, groceries and luggage quickly crowd the small rear cargo area.
Changing cabin temperature requires tapping the screen, distracting drivers when adjusting comfort on the move.
The auto stop-start system can interrupt smooth pullaways, making routine city driving feel less polished.
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Publications
3 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Car and Driver views the 2026 Ford Explorer as a capable but unremarkable family SUV. It earns praise for its spacious, modern first two rows, flexible powertrain lineup, composed ride, strong towing capacity, and genuinely quick ST model. The new Tremor adds credible off-road ability without sacrificing much on-road comfort, while practical touches include easy third-row access, abundant USB ports, and useful cargo space. Still, the third row is cramped for adults, fuel economy is merely average, and rivals such as the Mazda CX-90 and Kia Telluride offer more upscale interiors for less money. The Explorer also loses its wireless charging pad and lacks complimentary maintenance. Car and Driver’s preferred ST-Line trim strikes a sensible balance of equipment and value, making the Explorer a solid, versatile choice, though not a class standout.
By Austin Parsons
Edmunds views the 2026 Ford Explorer as a very good, enthusiast-friendly three-row SUV with meaningful compromises. Its standout strengths are athletic handling, strong turbocharged engines, excellent infotainment, and useful new Tremor off-road equipment; the ST reached 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The cabin is more uneven: front-seat comfort is excellent, but the second and third rows are cramped, under-padded, and awkward, while cargo space behind the third row trails key rivals. Edmunds also criticizes the irritating auto stop-start system, stiff ST ride, expensive options, mediocre fuel economy in real-world spirited driving, and generic styling. Still, the Explorer offers polished technology, solid build quality, and the most entertaining driving experience among its midsize three-row competitors. It is a strong choice for buyers who prioritize performance and features over maximum passenger comfort, value, or practicality.
By James Riswick
Consumer Guide’s Steve King and Johnnie Putman are highly enthusiastic about the 2026 Ford Explorer Active. After a roughly 750-mile trip from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon with five people and an extraordinary amount of luggage, they found it quiet, comfortable, refined, and surprisingly capable on steep climbs and winding roads. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost delivered effortless power, the transmission shifted smoothly, highway fuel economy reached 28 mpg, and even the standard cloth seats impressed them enough to compare favorably with a Lincoln Aviator’s expensive adjustable seats. The main weakness was the cramped, uncomfortable third row, especially its awkward access and thin cushion. Their rental-spec Explorer also lacked heated seats and a power liftgate, though those omissions reduce the price. Despite admitting they did not conduct their usual exhaustive evaluation, the reviewers give the Explorer an emphatic recommendation for practical, comfortable road-trip duty.
By Steve King and Johnnie Putman
YouTube
7 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
TheTopherTheTopher is genuinely impressed by the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, especially its surprisingly quick V6 and balanced ride. The 400-hp twin-turbo engine, smooth 10-speed, capable all-terrain setup, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and effective BlueCruise make it unusually versatile. He also appreciates the responsive infotainment, practical three-row packaging, comfortable suspension, and playful handling. Still, the $64,405 as-tested price feels steep, the cabin looks and feels plasticky, steering is overly light, and the Tremor lacks a spare tire and true low-range hardware. Overall, he considers it a fun, capable family SUV—best purchased discounted rather than at full price.
MikesCarInfoMike is clearly positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer, calling it comfortable, refined, and surprisingly quick for a four-cylinder SUV. He praises its smooth ride, quiet road manners, responsive 10-speed automatic, roomy first two rows, usable cargo area, intuitive screens, and strong 5,000-pound towing capability. His enthusiasm is tempered by practical criticisms: wind noise stands out, the third row is best for children, cargo-floor storage is poorly secured, and the test vehicle already had a faulty mirror control. He also wishes it had an auto-dimming or camera rearview mirror and a 360-degree camera.
Car ConfectionsCar Confections is strongly positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer. They praise the ST-Line’s smooth, responsive 300-hp turbo four-cylinder, comfortable ride, refined cabin, excellent Bang & Olufsen audio, standard large screens, and genuinely useful 360-degree camera. The new Tremor trim and optional 400-hp V6 add appealing performance and off-road credibility. However, the Explorer trails rivals in third-row comfort and cargo room, lacks a hybrid option and head-up display, and has relatively weak projected resale value. Overall, it feels like a well-equipped, versatile family SUV with standout powertrain variety, though space-focused buyers may prefer the Traverse or Grand Highlander.
MotormouthMotormouth is broadly positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer, especially the sharp styling, smooth V6 power, easy city maneuverability, quiet cabin, and genuinely useful 5,000-pound towing capacity. The new Tremor adds appealing off-road hardware, extra ground clearance, underbody protection, and all-terrain tires, though its ride produces some rattles over rough pavement. They also praise the improved interior, comfortable second row, and flexible trim lineup, but criticize Ford for removing the wireless charger, replacing the opening sunroof with fixed glass, charging extra for a spare tire, and using cheaper vinyl in the third row.
Ben HardyBen Hardy is clearly positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer Active, especially its smooth, muscular 2.3-liter EcoBoost torque, composed driving manners, responsive infotainment, and practical, easy-to-clean interior. He views it as a well-equipped pricing sweet spot for families, though its smaller-than-rivals cabin compromises third-row comfort and overall space. Hardy also flags the newly affordable V8-powered Dodge Durango as a serious competitive threat, despite the Explorer’s better fuel economy and stronger interface. Overall, his enthusiasm is genuine but measured: the Explorer is an appealing, sporty family SUV rather than the segment’s roomiest choice.
Automotive Anonymous Automotive Anonymous is strongly positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line, calling it quick, planted, comfortable, and remarkably capable for a three-row family SUV. The 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost delivered a GPS-tested 0–60 time of 6.87 seconds, while the reviewer praised its handling, quiet cabin, heated seats, safety technology, and practical cargo space. Still, the third row is best treated as occasional seating, touchscreen-only climate controls are inconvenient, and pricing can climb past $50,000. Overall, the Explorer feels refined and safe, though not flawless or especially affordable.
Gear GazetteGear Gazette is cautiously positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer, praising its strong engines, Tremor’s genuine off-road hardware, and intuitive, tech-rich cabin. The 400-hp ST and available BlueCruise add excitement, but the enthusiasm is tempered by a cramped third row, limited cargo space, firm ride, noisy Tremor tires, sluggish auto stop-start, and disappointing interior materials. The overall verdict is that the Explorer works better as a sporty, adventure-ready two-row SUV than as a genuinely comfortable three-row family hauler.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are generally positive about the 2026 Ford Explorer, especially its comfort, technology, and strong performance. Owners praise the refreshed interior, responsive infotainment, BlueCruise, attractive styling, practicality, and the 2.3-liter engine’s adequate power, while the ST and available V6 appeal to enthusiasts. Still, some criticize Ford’s cost-cutting, reduced engine availability, high pricing for upper trims, questionable long-term reliability, and occasional sunroof-seal concerns. Compared with earlier Explorers, several users view the 2025–2026 redesign as a meaningful improvement, though prospective buyers remain cautious about value and durability.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Strong Engine Choices300-hp turbo feels quick and smooth.
- •Responsive Cabin TechnologyLarge screens and controls simplify daily use.
- •Balanced Ride DynamicsComposed suspension balances comfort and handling.
- •Useful Towing CapabilityAdvertised to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Considerations
- •Cramped Third RowAdults face limited room and cushioning.
- •Limited Cargo SpaceLuggage crowds the rear quickly.
- •Uneven Interior MaterialsSome cabin surfaces feel inexpensive.
- •Average Fuel EconomyEfficiency trails hybrid-equipped alternatives.
Ford’s Explorer remains a mainstream family SUV with a sportier streak than its reputation suggests. Positioned between practical three-row rivals and pricier adventure-minded alternatives, the 2026 model serves commuters, families, and active buyers with up to 400-hp V6 power, flexible seating, and available all-wheel drive. Its 300-hp turbo-four is the everyday sweet spot, while the ST and new Tremor add performance and light off-road credibility. Reviewers generally praise the composed ride, responsive technology, and 5,000-pound towing capacity, but the cramped third row and limited space behind it matter if adults or lots of luggage regularly come along. Fuel economy also trails hybrid-equipped competitors, making powertrain choice important. The sections ahead examine how it accelerates, rides, carries people and cargo, tows, tackles rougher roads, and uses fuel—because the Explorer’s biggest question is whether you need a family SUV, a sporty one, or both.
Ride And Handling
The Explorer balances everyday comfort with unusually engaging road manners. Its composed suspension keeps highway travel quiet and controlled, while the ST’s athletic tuning and the standard model’s planted behavior make it easier to enjoy on winding roads. The 10-speed automatic is generally smooth and responsive, though auto stop-start can feel sluggish and the ST rides firmly. Tremor models remain comfortable on pavement, but all-terrain tires can add noise and rattles over rough surfaces.
Towing And Off-Road
The Explorer has useful capability beyond school runs and commuting. Properly equipped, its 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity supports small campers, boats, and utility trailers, while the new Tremor adds increased ground clearance, underbody protection, and all-terrain tires. Reviewers found the V6 particularly convincing for towing and steep terrain, but Tremor is not a hardcore off-roader because it lacks low-range gearing and a spare tire. Its strengths are confident light-duty adventure use and strong on-road versatility.
Third-Row Comfort Limits
The Explorer’s rear-most seats are its clearest family-use compromise. The three-row cabin seats up to seven, and access is relatively easy, but the third row is cramped for adults, with thin cushioning and limited legroom. Reviewers generally find the first two rows comfortable and spacious, yet describe the back row as better suited to children or occasional use. That matters because competitors such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Grand Highlander provide more usable passenger space for long trips.
Cargo Space Usability
Cargo flexibility is good, but the Explorer is not the segment leader for volume. Power-folding rear seats make it easy to switch between passengers and gear, and reviewers find the main cargo area practical for everyday errands. The limitation appears with all three rows occupied, when 461.6 liters behind the third row can disappear quickly under luggage or groceries. A poorly secured cargo-floor storage area noted in testing also detracts from an otherwise useful, family-oriented layout.
Fuel Economy Tradeoffs
Fuel economy is acceptable with the four-cylinder, but efficiency is not a defining Explorer advantage. The 2.3L rear-wheel-drive model reaches up to 20/29 mpg city/highway, and one long road trip returned 28 mpg on the highway, supporting Ford’s claim in favorable conditions. The V6 uses more fuel, especially when driven for its performance, and reviewers call overall economy average for the class. Buyers focused on lower running costs may prefer a hybrid-equipped rival.
Engine Performance Options
The Explorer feels quicker and more flexible than its family-SUV image suggests. The standard 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost delivers strong torque and reached 0–60 mph in 6.87 seconds in one test, while the available 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost V6 makes the ST genuinely rapid, with Edmunds recording 5.6 seconds. A smooth 10-speed automatic helps, although fuel economy and real-world efficiency suffer with spirited V6 driving. This is a standout strength, especially for buyers who want performance without abandoning three-row utility.
Conclusion
The Explorer’s appeal becomes clearest when you match it to the right kind of family duty: its 300-hp turbo-four is quick and smooth, while the V6 makes the ST genuinely rapid. Reviewers also like its composed ride, engaging handling, 5,000-pound towing capacity, and Tremor’s credible light-off-road hardware. The compromises are just as clear: the third row suits children better than adults, and cargo space with all seats occupied is limited. Its flexible folding seats help, but fuel economy is merely average and trails hybrid alternatives. That makes the Explorer a strong fit for drivers who want everyday comfort with extra performance and occasional towing—not for families prioritizing maximum rear-seat room or long-term efficiency. Its broad abilities justify a favorable recommendation, though the cramped back row, uneven materials, and rising upper-trim prices keep it from being the smartest choice for everyone.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Engine Power
4/5
Acceleration
4/5
Towing Capacity
4/5
Fuel Efficiency
3/5
Reliability
3/5
Durability
3/5
Value
Purchase Price
3/5
Operating Cost
3/5
Resale Value
2/5
Design
Interior Space
3/5
Cargo Capacity
3/5
Ergonomics
4/5
Exterior Styling
4/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Interior Material Toxicity
TBD
Safety
Crashworthiness
4/5
Active Driver Assistance
4/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Visibility and Lighting
4/5
Sustainability
Tailpipe Emissions
2/5
Fuel Lifecycle Emissions
2/5
Use of Recycled Materials
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Infotainment Features
4/5
Ride Comfort Tuning
4/5
Customization Options
5/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Design
Safety
Sustainability
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
8 Questions
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