Meet the 2026 Ford Explorer in Thomasville, GA
Explore the 2026 Ford Explorer at Thomasville Ford Lincoln
For the 2026 model year, the Ford Explorer comes with a renewed emphasis on in-cabin technology and an all-new, high-capability off-road trim. After a recent refresh, the Explorer’s interior now has an open, premium feel and features a standard 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital cluster that work with the latest Ford Digital Experience infotainment system.
The 2026 Ford Explorer features a sporty rear-wheel-drive platform and an available powerful V6, neither of which is offered by its rivals, the Kia Telluride and Mazda CX-90. Plus, its innovative technologies, including BlueCruise hands-free driving, give it a clear advantage in an increasingly crowded field.
The new Explorer Tremor off-road model replaces the outgoing Timberline, leaving five trims for the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup.
- Active
- ST-Line
- Tremor
- Platinum
- ST
The Active is a well-equipped starting point, while the ST-Line adds a sporty appearance and a standard B&O® sound system. The Tremor is built for the trail with standard AWD, the Platinum is focused on luxury, and the ST is a true performance SUV with its standard 400-horsepower V6.
Visit Thomasville Ford Lincoln to compare these models side by side.
Interior Review of the 2026 Ford Explorer
Inside, the 2026 Explorer’s redesigned cabin feels more spacious, an impression created by a dashboard that was pushed forward to open up the front-row area. The interior is built around its new standard technology: a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen are on every trim. This system runs the new Ford Digital Experience, which fully integrates Google apps and Alexa Built-in for voice commands. Softer materials on the console, door panels, and dash give the entire cabin a more premium feel.
The 2026 Ford Explorer features seating for six or seven people. A second-row bench seat is available, but most trims come standard with captain’s chairs, creating a six-seat layout that makes access to the third row easier. While the front two rows are comfortable for adults, the third row is snug and better suited for children.
Cargo space is versatile and ready for family duty. You get 16.3 cubic feet of room behind the third row. With the third row folded flat, that space expands to 46 cubic feet. With both rear rows stowed, the Explorer offers a maximum cargo capacity of 85.8 cubic feet.
Exterior Review of the 2026 Ford Explorer
The 2026 Ford Explorer features the aggressive new design it received last model year, characterized by a boxier fascia and slimmer, LED headlights. Its grille is unique to each trim level, adding personality. The ST-Line and ST receive a gloss-black honeycomb theme, while the Platinum features an upscale satin chrome-and-black finish. The rear receives new LED taillights, complemented by a horizontal nameplate, giving it a longer, more aggressive stance.
The purposeful-looking Tremor model, new for 2026, features lifted suspension, protective skid plates, and 18-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires. All others in the range offer wheels ranging from 18-inch alloys (Active) to a mix of 20-21-inch wheels on the ST-Line, Platinum, and ST.
The available exterior colors include the following:
- Agate Black Metallic
- Vapor Blue Metallic
- Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
- Star White Metallic Tri-Coat
- Space White Metallic
- Carbonized Gray Metallic
Power and Performance of the 2026 Ford Explorer
Standard 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers the 2026 Ford Explorer, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Offered in Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims, it’s well sufficient for daily driving, delivering up to 24 mpg combined with rear-wheel drive.
The 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 is what really changes the game. The twin-turbo engine is standard on the ST and available on both the Platinum and the Tremor. It churns out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Unlike most competitors, the Explorer features a sporty, rear-wheel-drive-based platform as standard, with all-wheel drive optional for added traction. The AWD system is standard on the new Tremor trim. Utility is another strong point: every 2026 Explorer comes standard with the Class III Towing package and a 5,000-pound maximum tow rating for either engine.
Key Technology Features
- 13.2-inch Infotainment Touchscreen
- 12.3-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Tri-Zone Electronic Climate Control
- Available 12-Speaker B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®
- Available Ford BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving
Key Safety Features
- Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- Rear View Camera with Washer
Shop the 2026 Ford Explorer in Thomasville, GA
Whether you need the 400-horsepower ST or the new trail-ready Tremor with its standard AWD, the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup has a model for every purpose. The most significant advantage it offers is its high-tech interior. Every 2026 Explorer, from the Active trim up, comes standard with the new Ford Digital Experience on a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen. This gives the cabin a modern feel that rivals can't match.
There's no substitute for getting behind the wheel. Come to Thomasville Ford Lincoln in Thomasville, GA, and take the latest Explorer for a test drive today.
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