2026 Ford Explorer Models Trim Comparison

The 2026 Ford Explorer lineup includes Active, ST-Line, the new off-road-ready Tremor, performance-focused ST and premium Platinum models. With seating for up to seven passengers, available four-wheel drive and modern Ford technology, the Explorer delivers the comfort, flexibility and capability SUV shoppers are looking for.

The 2026 Explorer offers a 2.3L EcoBoost engine on Active, ST-Line and Platinum models, while the new Explorer Tremor is available with either the 2.3L EcoBoost or a powerful 3.0L EcoBoost V6. The Explorer ST comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6.

Every 2026 Explorer includes a Class III Trailer Tow Package rated for towing up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, while select models offer Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.

Compare 2026 Ford Explorer trim levels, engines, features and available packages below, then shop new Ford Explorer SUVs for sale in Houston or build and price your Explorer at Chastang Ford.

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Trim
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor

Compare 2026 Ford Explorer SUVs

2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

The 2026 Ford Explorer lineup gives SUV shoppers five well-equipped models to choose from: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST and Platinum. Explorer Active offers the everyday comfort and versatility drivers need in a three-row SUV, while ST-Line adds sporty styling and upgraded technology.

  • Active
  • ST-Line
  • Tremor
  • Platinum
  • ST

New for 2026, the Ford Explorer Tremor brings added off-road capability with standard four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, underbody protection and distinctive Tremor styling. The Explorer ST delivers 400 horsepower, while the Explorer Platinum offers a more premium driving experience with upscale interior comfort and advanced features. Compare each 2026 Ford Explorer trim level below to find the model that best fits your driving needs.

2026 Ford Explorer ST
2026 Ford Explorer ST

2026 Ford Explorer Active

Starting MSRP $40,585
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active is a comfortable and versatile three-row SUV built for daily driving and busy Houston lifestyles, with standard rear-wheel drive and available Intelligent 4WD. Its 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine provides confident performance, while heated front-row seats, tri-zone automatic climate control and a power liftgate add everyday convenience. With eight USB ports, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Ford Digital Experience and standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, the Explorer Active offers the connectivity and driver-assist technology modern SUV shoppers expect. Key standard features include:
  • 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 – 300hp
  • 18″ Sparkle Silver-Painted Aluminum Wheels
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Includes: Adaptive Cruise Control, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, BLISĀ® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist 2.0, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision AssistĀ® with Automatic Emergency Braking w/Pedestrian Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Rear View Camera, Reverse Parking Assist, Post-Collision Braking.
  • Class III Trailer Tow Package
  • 10-way Power Driver Seat
  • AM/FM and SiriusXM with 360L
  • First Row Heated Seats
  • 10-way Power Driver’s
  • Ford Digital Experience Includes: 13.2″ Color LCD Touchscreen in IP Center-Stack, Pinch-to-Zoom capability, Alexa Built-In, Google Built-In (Google Assistant, Maps, Play Store), 911 Assist.

Optional features and packages for the Explorer Active trim include:

  • 4WD ($2,000)
  • Active Comfort Package ($3,145):Ā 8-Way Power Passenger Seat w/ActiveX Seating Material, Remote Start System, Heated Steering Wheel, Second Row HVAC Controls, Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), LED Fog Lamps Skid Plate Elements, LED Signature Lighting..
  • Panoramic Vista-Roof with Power-Shade ($1,695)
  • SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad ($455) *Requires Active Comfort Pkg
2026 Ford Explorer Active at Chastang Ford in Houston TX
2026 Ford Explorer Active

2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line

Starting MSRP $45,155

The Explorer ST-Line comes with sporty interior cabin with more deluxe features than ever before. With its premium materials, attention to detail and accessibility, the ST-Line is sure to add a boost of style. It also gets a boost of technology with a booming B&O Sound System, and full suite of available Drive Assist Technology. Key standard features include all Active (200A) RWD and Active Comfort Package features plus:
  • Standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine
  • Standard 2WD; available Intelligent 4WD
  • Unique ST-Line badging and blackout exterior treatment
  • 20″ Ebony Machined-Painted Aluminum Wheels
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with 360-Degree Camera
  • Ebony Interior with Red Stitching
  • B&O Sound System with 10 speakers, including subwoofer

Optional features and packages for the 2026 Explorer ST-Line trim:

  • 4WD (requires ST-Line Street Pkg)
  • ST-Line Street Package ($1,450):Ā 21ā€ Magnatite-Painted Aluminum Wheels, Performance Brakes, Red Painted Performance Front and Rear Brake Calipers.
  • Premium Package ($1,360):Ā 110V/150W AC Power Outlet, Ambient Lighting, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror (Sideview Mirrors Power-Folding with Autofold, Power and Heated Glass, LED Turn Signal Indicators, Security Approach Lamps, Driver’s Side Auto-Dimming, Driver and Front Passenger Side Memory), Rain-Sensing Wipers, Driver’s Seat w/Memory, Second Row Heated Seats, Wireless Charging Pad.
  • Black Painted Roof ($4,895)
  • Panoramic Vista-Roof with Power-Shade ($1,695)
  • BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving Equipped w/1-year Plan ($495 1-yr or $2,495 One Time Purchase):Ā BlueCruise enables hands-free highway driving on 97% of controlled access highways (interstates, freeways, expressways) in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Cargo Area Management System ($245):Ā Cargo Mat, Cargo Net, Cargo Well Rubber Mat.
  • SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad ($455)
2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line at Chastang Ford in Houston TX
2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor

Starting MSRP $48,965

New for 2026, the Ford Explorer Tremor brings rugged off-road capability to the comfort, technology and three-row versatility of the Explorer SUV. Built for drivers who want to explore beyond the pavement, every Explorer Tremor includes standard Intelligent 4WD, a TORSENĀ® limited-slip rear differential, an off-road-tuned suspension and a specially tuned Off-Road Drive Mode. Its 31.5-inch all-terrain tires, 8.7 inches of minimum ground clearance, front and rear underbody protection, off-road auxiliary grille lights and front tow hooks help prepare it for rougher terrain and weekend adventures. Inside, the Tremor balances that capability with MikoĀ® suede-trimmed seating, heated and ventilated front sport seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs and a standard B&OĀ® Sound System with 10 speakers.

The 2026 Explorer Tremor comes standard with a 2.3L EcoBoostĀ® engine for confident everyday performance and outdoor adventure capability. For drivers who want more power, the available 3.0L EcoBoostĀ® V6 delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque. Choosing the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 also includes the Tremor Ultimate Package, adding a panoramic fixed-glass roof with power shade, a 14-speaker B&OĀ® Sound System, multicontour front seats with Active MotionĀ®, driver’s seat memory, a PowerFoldĀ® third-row seat and additional convenience features.

Key standard features for the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor include all Active (200A) 4WD and Active Comfort Package features plus:

  • 18″ High Gloss Ebony Black-painted Aluminum with Tremor Orange Accents
  • TorsenĀ® Limited Slip Differential
  • Off-road Tuned Suspension with Increase Ride Height
  • Tremor Badges and Graphics
  • Off Road Auxiliary Grille Lights
  • Steel Under Body Protection
  • Head Restraints, Four-Way Manually Adjustable Driver and Front Passenger
  • Floor Liners – Front and Second Rows (without Carpet Floor Mats)
  • Ford Co-Pilot360ā„¢ Assist 2.0 with 360-Degree Camera
  • 110V/150W AC Power Outlet (replaces the Powerpoint Port on the rear side of the Center Floor Console)
  • Front Heated and Ventilated Seats
  • Second Row Heated Seats
  • B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ®, 10 Speakers including Subwoofer
  • Off-Road Grille Lighting
  • Steel Under Body Protection
  • Floor Liners
  • Off-road Tuned Suspension with Increased Ride Height
  • Ventilated Front Seats
  • 2nd Row Heated Seats

Optional features and packages for the 2026 Explorer Tremor trim:

  • Tremor Ultimate Package ($11,850) **Adds the 3.0L V6 EcoBoost Plus: BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped (90-day trial), Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror (Interior), B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ® – 980 Watt – 14 Speakers including Subwoofer, Mirrors (Power-Folding with Autofold, Power and Heated Glass, LED Turn Signal Indicators, Security Approach Lamps, Driver’s Side Auto-Dimming, Driver/Passenger Side Memory and Gloss Black Caps), Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade, Rain-Sensing Wipers, Seats (Driver’s Seat – Memory, Multicontour Seats with Active Motion, Third Row PowerFold).
  • Tremor Convenience Package ($1,675): Ambient Lighting, Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror (Interior), Mirrors (Sideview – Power and Heated Glass, Manual-Folding, LED Turn Signal Indicators, Security Approach Lamps, Driver’s Side Auto-Dimming, Driver/Passenger Side Memory and Gloss Black Caps), Rain-Sensing Wipers, Seats (Driver’s Seat – Memory, Third Row PowerFoldĀ®)
  • BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving Equipped w/1-year Plan ($495 1-yr or $2,495 One Time Purchase):Ā BlueCruise enables hands-free highway driving on 97% of controlled access highways (interstates, freeways, expressways) in the U.S. and Canada.
  • SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad ($455)
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor

Ford Explorer Tremor Photos

2026 Ford Explorer Platinum

Starting MSRP $50,965

The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum delivers an upscale three-row SUV experience with premium interior appointments, advanced technology and everyday versatility. Powered by a standard 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost engine, the Explorer Platinum features heated and ventilated multicontour front seats with Active MotionĀ®, heated second-row captain’s chairs, a PowerFoldĀ® third-row seat and a B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ® with 14 speakers. Standard Ford BlueCruise-equipped hands-free highway driving capability, adaptive headlamps and the new Open On Approach power liftgate feature add convenience and confidence to every drive.

The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum (600A) Equipment Group includes all Active (200A) RWD and Active Comfort Package Features, Plus:

  • 20″ Luster Nickel-Painted Aluminum Wheels
  • B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ®, 980 Watt, 14 Speakers including Subwoofer
  • HD Radioā„¢
  • Ford Co-Pilot360ā„¢ Assist 2.0 with 360 degree camera
  • Adaptive Headlamps
  • Ambient Lighting
  • Leather-Wrapped Door Rollovers and IP
  • ActiveXĀ® Trimmed Seats with Leather Interlaced Diamond Perforated Inserts
  • Memory Driver’s Seat
  • Multicontour Seats with Active MotionĀ® (front only)
  • Second Row Heated Seats
  • Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
  • Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
  • Power-Folding Sideview Mirrors with Autofold
  • 110V/150W AC Power Outlet (replaces the Powerpoint Port on the rear side of the Center Floor Console)
  • Rain-Sensing Wipers (front only)

Available packages for the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum trim includes:

  • Lux Leather Package ($1,695): Requires 4WD – Premium Leather Seating Surfaces (Salt Crystal Gray and Mojave Dusk Lux Leather interior choices), Platinum Badges on Seats – Front Row Only, Quilting and Stitching on Seats and Door Panels.
  • BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving Equipped (One-Time Purchase): Best Value: Save 28% vs. renewing annually over 7 years at $495. Automatic Lane Change (dynamically monitors highway traffic to help make changing lanes simpler, and hands-free – automatically switching lanes for you without the need to touch the turn signal), In-Lane Repositioning (helps provide more space by subtly shifting away from vehicles in adjacent lanes), Significantly enhanced hands-free driving performance, including greater ability to navigate narrow lanes and curves and improved in-lane stability for a more continuous drive.
  • Black Painted Roof ($4,895)
  • Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade ($1,695)
  • SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad ($455)
2026 Ford Explorer Platinum at Chastang Ford in Houston TX
2026 Ford Explorer Platinum

2026 Ford Explorer ST

Starting MSRP $54,905

The 2026 Ford Explorer ST is a high-performance SUV built for drivers who want exhilarating power without giving up everyday comfort and versatility. Its standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers and 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels. Inside, the Explorer ST features heated and ventilated MikoĀ® suede-trimmed front sport seats, heated second-row captain’s chairs, a PowerFoldĀ® third-row seat and distinctive ST interior accents.

Stand features for the 2026 Ford Explorer ST include all ST-Line (300A) features plus:

  • 3.0L EcoBoostĀ® V6 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
  • 21ā€ Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
  • Red Painted Performance Front and Rear Brake Calipers
  • Ambient Lighting
  • Heated Steering Wheel – Sport Style with ST Logo (Flat Bottom)
  • Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
  • 110V/150W AC Power Outlet (replaces the Powerpoint Port on the rear side of the Center Floor Console)
  • Performance Brakes
  • Sport-Tuned Suspension
  • Quad Exhaust Tips – Chrome
  • Front Heated and Ventilated Seats
  • Rain-Sensing Wipers (front only)

Available packages for the 2026 Ford Explorer ST trim includes:

  • Sun and Sound Package ($3,340):Ā B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ®, 980 Watt, 14 Speakers including Subwoofer, Panoramic Vista RoofĀ® with Power Shade, Multicontour Seats with Active MotionĀ® (Front Only), Panoramic Fixed Glass Moonroof with Power Shade .
  • Black Painted Roof ($4,895)
  • BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving Equipped w/1-year Plan ($495 1-yr or $2,495 One Time Purchase):Ā BlueCruise enables hands-free highway driving on 97% of controlled access highways (interstates, freeways, expressways) in the U.S. and Canada.
2026 Ford Explorer ST at Chastang Ford in Houston TX
2026 Ford Explorer ST

2026 Ford Explorer FAQs

The 2026 Ford Explorer is available in five retail-focused trim levels at Chastang Ford: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST and Platinum. Explorer Active is designed for everyday comfort and versatility, ST-Line adds sporty styling and upgraded technology, Tremor brings off-road-focused capability, ST emphasizes performance and Platinum delivers the most premium interior experience.

The biggest addition to the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup is the new Explorer Tremor, an off-road-focused model with an available 400 horsepower 3.0L V6 EcoBoost engine, plus standard Intelligent 4WD, all-terrain tires, a TORSENĀ® limited-slip rear differential, underbody protection and increased ground clearance. The 2026 Explorer also adds available Marsh Gray exterior paint on select models, the Ford Connectivity Package and the new Open On Approach liftgate feature on select trims.

The 2026 Ford Explorer Active, ST-Line and Platinum come with a 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 engine. The Explorer Tremor comes standard with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine and offers an available 3.0L EcoBoostĀ® V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque. The performance-focused Explorer ST comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6.

Yes. Choosing the available 3.0L EcoBoostĀ® V6 engine on the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor also includes the Tremor Ultimate Package. This package adds premium features such as a panoramic fixed-glass roof with power shade, a 14-speaker B&OĀ® Sound System, multicontour front seats with Active MotionĀ®, driver’s seat memory and a PowerFoldĀ® third-row seat.
The 2026 Ford Explorer includes a Class III Trailer Tow Package and can tow a maximum of 5,000 lbs. across all engine and drivetrain configurations when properly equipped. The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) for the 2026 Explorer ranges from 10,000 lbs. to 10,800 lbs., depending on the engine and drivetrain.

Yes, ExplorerĀ® SUVs are available with intelligent four-wheel drive.

By Engine:
2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 engine — RWD is standard on all models with this engine, and Intelligent 4WD is available on all models.
3.0L EcoBoostĀ® V6 engine — Intelligent 4WD is standard on TremorĀ® model and available on ST model.

Terrain Management Systemā„¢: Explorer SUVs include up to six available drive modes to choose from.

Chastang Ford gives Houston SUV shoppers a trusted place to compare Ford Explorer models, review available features and find the right vehicle for their lifestyle and budget. Our dealership is known for competitive pricing, outstanding customer reviews and helpful service throughout the shopping, financing, trade-in and ownership process.

Chastang Ford has earned the 2025 Ford President’s Award and Ford True Blue Award for customer satisfaction and dealership excellence, while Joe Chastang was honored with the 2024 Ford Salute to Dealers award for his community contributions. We are also proud to give back to the Greater Houston area through community outreach and charitable initiatives supporting local schools, the Houston Food Bank, education programs and other organizations making a positive difference in our community.Ā 

New Ford Explorer Models For Sale

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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$33,760
Stock #: TGB43291
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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$37,691
Stock #: TGB32999
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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$37,691
Stock #: TGB32398
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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$37,691
Stock #: TGB34333
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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$37,691
Stock #: TGB34068
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New 2026 Ford Explorer Active
2026 Ford Explorer Active
$37,691
Stock #: TGB32400
View Details

2026 Ford Explorer Colors

Choose a 2026 Ford Explorer exterior color that fits your style, from sophisticated neutrals to bold premium finishes. New for 2026, Marsh Gray is available on the Explorer ST-Line, Tremor and ST models, adding a rugged, modern color choice to the lineup. Available 2026 Ford Explorer exterior colors include:

  • Vapor Blue Metallic
  • Space White Metallic
  • Star White Metallic Tri-Coat
  • Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
  • Carbonized Gray Metallic
  • Marsh Gray
  • Agate Black Metallic

Ford Explorer Dealer in Houston, TX

When you are ready to shop for a new Ford Explorer in Houston, Chastang Ford is here to help you find the right three-row SUV for your needs. Compare available Explorer Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST and Platinum models, review features and colors, value your trade and explore financing or lease options with help from a knowledgeable Ford sales team.Ā 

Chastang Ford is proud to serve Houston and surrounding communities of Pasadena, Humble and Channelview Texas with competitive pricing, highly rated customer service and a lasting commitment to giving back across the Greater Houston area. Our focus on customer care and dealership excellence has earned recognition including the 2025 Ford President’s Award and Ford True Blue Award, while Joe Chastang was honored with the 2024 Ford Salute to Dealers award for his community contributions.Ā 

2026 Ford Explorer Inquiry In Houston, TX

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