Where the 2026 Ford Explorer Shines
The 2026 Ford Explorer stands out in the crowded midsize SUV field with its responsive, rear-drive-based handling that gives it a truly planted feel on the road. Drivers will notice the Explorer feels smaller than it is when cornering, thanks to quick steering and a firm, composed suspension. The refreshed interior now sports higher-grade materials and an intuitive infotainment system, highlighted by a large 13.2-inch touchscreen and easy-to-grasp controls. Every model comes standard with a robust suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane centering, while available BlueCruise hands-free driving puts the Explorer at the front of the tech pack. The first two rows are spacious, comfortable, and easy to access, making road trips a breeze for families and adults alike.
Available Trims and Features
The Explorer’s lineup ranges from the value-focused Active to the feature-rich Platinum and performance-ready ST. The ST-Line offers heated second-row seating and a 360-degree camera, with BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving available as an option. The new Tremor trim, aimed at adventurous drivers, adds increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and off-road drive modes. Performance seekers can opt for the ST or Platinum trims, which offer a brawny turbocharged V6 with 400 hp, while most trims come with a strong 2.3-liter turbo-four. Across the range, buyers get a standard 12.3-inch digital driver display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the FordPass app for remote access. Seating configurations allow for six or seven passengers, but the third row is best reserved for kids due to limited leg support and tight access.
Where the 2026 Ford Explorer Could Improve
Despite a strong road test showing, the Explorer’s predicted reliability and owner satisfaction scores are notably low, which may give some buyers pause. The ride, while planted, is firmer than most rivals and transmits frequent road imperfections into the cabin. The standard turbo-four engine, though punchy, can sound coarse under acceleration, detracting from the overall refinement, and the 10-speed automatic transmission is occasionally clunky at low speeds. The third-row seat is cramped and difficult for adults to access, limiting the Explorer’s appeal for larger families. The move to touchscreen-based climate controls adds unnecessary distraction, and visibility out the back and sides is hindered by thick pillars and headrests.
Our Take
The 2026 Ford Explorer builds on its reputation as a versatile, confident family hauler, with standout handling and a suite of high-tech safety features. While the latest updates bring better interior quality and more advanced tech, rivals like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade still edge ahead in third-row comfort and overall refinement. Families who value driving engagement, cutting-edge driver assistance, and flexible cabin space will find plenty to like, but those prioritizing reliability or third-row usability may want to compare closely before making a decision.