Heavy-Duty. No Compromise.
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A is the value entry to Ford's long-running 3-row SUV lineup. Standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 produces 300 hp, a Class III Trailer Tow Package handles up to 5,000 lbs, and the Ford Digital Experience with 13.2" touchscreen comes standard. New for 2026: an off-road-focused Tremor trim joins the lineup with TORSEN limited-slip diff and 8.7" ground clearance.
The 2026 Explorer comes standard with the 13.2" Ford Digital Experience touchscreen with Google built-in (Maps, Assistant, Play Store), 12.3" digital cluster, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with adaptive cruise and lane-centering, Class III Tow Package (5,000 lb max), and one year of Ford Connectivity Package. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 produces 300 hp and pairs with a 10-speed automatic.
The 2026 Explorer is a 3-row midsize SUV with seating for up to 7 passengers and 85.8 cu ft of cargo space behind the first row. Available in six trims with 4WD on most and standard on Tremor — including the new Tremor with TORSEN limited-slip diff and 8.7" ground clearance.
5,000 lb Tow Standard
Class III Trailer Tow Package included on every Explorer trim. 5,000 lb max towing when properly equipped.
Two Engine Choices
2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp, std most trims) and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, std ST / avail Tremor). Both pair with 10-speed automatic.
NEW Tremor Off-Road
Brand new for 2026. TORSEN limited-slip diff, 8.7" ground clearance, all-terrain tires, off-road auxiliary lights, skid plates, sport-tuned suspension.
Powertrain & Performance
The 2026 Explorer offers two engine choices and three drivetrain configurations. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 is standard on most trims; the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is reserved for the ST (standard) and Tremor (optional).
2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Standard on Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum. Turbocharged inline-4 with direct injection. Pairs with 10-speed automatic and RWD or available Intelligent 4WD.
3.0L EcoBoost V6
Standard on ST, available on Tremor (Tremor Ultimate Package). Twin-turbocharged V6. 385 hp on vehicles built on/after 4/13/26.
10-Speed Automatic
10-speed automatic standard on every Explorer. Paddle shifters available on ST. Six available drive modes including Trail/Off-Road on 4WD models.
Intelligent 4WD
Available on most trims, standard on Tremor. Tremor adds TORSEN limited-slip rear axle, 8.7" ground clearance, and all-terrain tires.
Standard Features
Every 2026 Explorer ST-Line includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 plus the equipment below. No upsells required.
Safety & Driver Assist
Technology
Towing & Capability
Available Colors
2026 Explorer offers a wide color palette including new for 2026: Stellar Silver Metallic and Forged Green Metallic.
Exterior Colors
Interior
Explorer ST-Line Specifications
Cab & Bed Configurations
The Explorer comes in a single 3-row SUV body with seating for 6 (captain's chairs) or 7 (bench). Configuration flexibility comes from drivetrain (RWD or 4WD) and powertrain (2.3L I-4 or 3.0L V6).
RWD Configuration
Rear-wheel drive is standard on Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST. Provides the most efficient configuration with sporty rear-drive dynamics.
Intelligent 4WD
Available on most trims, standard on Tremor. Adds Slippery, Trail, Off-Road drive modes for changing conditions and weather.
Tremor 4WD (NEW)
The Tremor adds genuine off-road hardware: TORSEN limited-slip rear differential, all-terrain tires, skid plates, off-road tuned suspension, and 1" suspension lift.
Available Configurations
All prices MSRP before destination with standard 2.3L EcoBoost I4. Intelligent 4WD adds $2,000. 3.0L V6 available on ST and Tremor only.
| Body Style | Engine | Drivetrain | Seating | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Row SUV | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | RWD | 6-Passenger | $44,805 |
| 3-Row SUV | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | Intelligent 4WD | 6-Passenger | $46,805 |
Intelligent 4WD adds $2,000. 3.0L V6 available on ST and Tremor only. All prices exclude destination ($1,995).
ST-Line vs Tremor
Considering the next step up? Here's what the XLT adds.
Choose the XL If...
- You need maximum capability at minimum cost
- It's a fleet, commercial, or work-use vehicle
- You prefer vinyl seats and easy-clean interior
- You'll add your own upfits or accessories
Choose the XLT If...
- Chrome exterior and alloy wheels matter to you
- You want a power driver seat and cloth seating
- You want the Tremor Off-Road Package option
- The ~$3K step-up fits your budget
Explore Every Trim
Six Explorer trims for 2026 — from value Active 100A to performance ST, plus the new off-road Tremor.
Explorer FAQ
Every 2026 Explorer includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 (Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, BLIS, Lane-Keeping, Adaptive Cruise with Stop-and-Go), the Ford Digital Experience (13.2" touchscreen with Google built-in, 12.3" digital cluster), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Class III Trailer Tow Package (5,000 lb max), and one year of Ford Connectivity Package included.
Two engines: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp / 310 lb-ft, std on Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum) and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp / 415 lb-ft, std on ST, optional on Tremor with the Tremor Ultimate Package). Note: The 3.0L V6 was removed from Platinum for 2026. 385 hp on vehicles built on/after 4/13/26.
Up to 5,000 lbs on every Explorer trim. The Class III Trailer Tow Package is standard equipment, including hitch receiver, 4-pin/7-pin connectors, trailer sway control, and side-wind stabilization. Both the 2.3L I-4 and 3.0L V6 achieve max towing when properly equipped.
The biggest news is the new Tremor trim, which replaces the previous Timberline. Tremor includes Intelligent 4WD standard, TORSEN limited-slip rear differential, all-terrain tires, 8.7" ground clearance, skid plates, and off-road auxiliary lights. Other 2026 changes: Active trim split into Active 100A and Active, 3.0L V6 removed from Platinum, BlueCruise 1.5 standard on Platinum and ST, panoramic fixed-glass roof now available on all trims.
Both can be had with the 3.0L V6, but they're built for different missions. The ST is a performance SUV: sport-tuned suspension, 21" wheels, RWD standard with available 4WD, 0-60 in 5.1 seconds. The Tremor is an off-road SUV: 4WD standard, TORSEN diff, 8.7" ground clearance, all-terrain tires, skid plates, 1" suspension lift. Choose ST for on-road performance, Tremor for trail capability.
Why Buy Astro Ford
Astro Ford is built on local heritage and an evolved community. With deep roots and active involvement in Biloxi, MS, we're committed to the businesses, people, and neighborhoods that make our community thrive.
Local Heritage
Proudly serving the Biloxi community with decades of trusted automotive experience.
Community First
Active involvement in local events, charities, and everything that strengthens our neighborhood.
Award-Winning Service
Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to deliver a world-class ownership experience.
*MSRP starting at $44,805 for the 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A (RWD with 2.3L EcoBoost). Excludes destination and delivery ($1,695), taxes, title, license, and dealer fees. See dealer for actual pricing.
1Starting price reflects Astro Ford's current advertised price after all applicable incentives. Not all buyers will qualify. Subject to change without notice.
2Total savings off MSRP includes all applicable Ford incentives, dealer discounts, and available rebates. Savings vary by configuration and financing method.
3Bonus cash available on select in-stock units. Must take delivery from dealer stock. Cannot be combined with special APR or lease offers unless otherwise noted.
4APR financing through Ford Motor Credit for qualified buyers. Not all buyers will qualify. Monthly payment varies by term, amount financed, and credit approval. See dealer for details.
5Lease offer based on approved credit through Ford Motor Credit. Security deposit waived. Lessee responsible for excess wear and mileage over allowance. Early termination fees may apply. See dealer for complete terms.
Towing and payload capacities based on properly equipped vehicles. Subject to change without notice.
