Performance & Powertrain Options

Power & Capability That Excites

The 2026 Explorer offers two robust EcoBoost engines:
2.3L EcoBoost I-4: Delivers 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
3.0L EcoBoost V6: Available on ST and Tremor trims, this engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and towing capabilities.

Discover performance that's ready for your next journey—only at Parkway Ford in Waterloo.

All models come standard with four-wheel drive, ensuring confident handling in various driving conditions.

Key Performance Features:

• 10-speed automatic transmission


• Rear-wheel drive standard; all-wheel drive optional


• Towing capacity up to 5,600 lbs (when properly equipped)

Whether you're commuting through city streets or hitting the open highway, the Explorer's powertrain lineup ensures a dynamic and responsive drive. Fuel efficiency and driving dynamics are enhanced by the smart 10-speed transmission, which delivers power precisely when needed.

Interior Comfort & Space

Designed for Comfort, Built for Families

The Explorer's interior is designed for comfort and versatility, accommodating up to seven passengers with ample cargo space. Premium materials and thoughtful design elements create a welcoming environment for both driver and passengers.

Interior Highlights:

• Available leather-trimmed seating
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• PowerFold® third-row seats for easy cargo access
• Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control

The spacious cabin is designed with family life in mind. Rear-seat occupants enjoy generous legroom, USB charging ports, and available Captain's Chairs that provide extra comfort and flexibility. With over 87 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded down, the Explorer is built to accommodate luggage, gear, and groceries with ease.

Ambient lighting and premium sound insulation contribute to a serene ride, while clever storage compartments help keep the cabin organized. The available hands-free liftgate also enhances convenience when loading and unloading.

The 2026 Explorer also adds thoughtful amenities like a heated steering wheel, memory settings for multiple drivers, and an available panoramic fixed glass moonroof that brightens the interior with natural light. An ergonomic dashboard and available digital instrument cluster keep vital controls within easy reach.

For families, the cabin offers smart rear-seat alert systems, integrated sunshades, and rear climate control settings for maximum passenger satisfaction. Every inch of the Explorer is optimized for long-haul comfort and daily usability.

Experience the spacious and comfortable interior of the 2026 Explorer at Parkway Ford in Waterloo.

Safety & Driver-Assist Features

Confidence Comes Standard

The 2026 Explorer prioritizes your safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assist technologies.

Standard Safety Features:

• Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology
• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System

Available Safety Enhancements:

• Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Active Park Assist 2.0

New for 2026, Ford offers BlueCruise hands-free driving technology as an optional one-time purchase, giving drivers more flexibility on long highway journeys. Enhanced parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and Post-Collision Braking help reduce the risk of accidents and protect everyone on board.

In addition to passive safety features like a reinforced safety cage and advanced airbag system, the Explorer's system alerts the driver to potential hazards and can take corrective action to mitigate collisions.

Other notable additions include Traffic Sign Recognition, Intersection Assist, and Reverse Brake Assist, helping you navigate complex driving situations with ease. The new rear occupant alert system adds peace of mind for families.

All trims are equipped with tire pressure monitoring, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, and available auto high-beam headlamps. These innovations help make the 2026 Explorer one of the safest vehicles in its class.