2026 Ford Explorer Review

Impressive Performance and Mileage Specs

The 2026 Ford Explorer offers two impressive EcoBoost® engine options designed to satisfy a wide variety of drivers. Most trims come standard with Ford’s proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing approximately 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission and is available with either rear-wheel drive or Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive depending on trim. Drivers choosing the performance-oriented ST receive a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 generating an exhilarating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Active serves as the entry point into the Explorer family while offering an impressive balance of capability, comfort, and efficiency. Powered by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine, it delivers confident acceleration for city traffic and highway passing while maintaining an estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive. Available Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive provides additional traction for changing weather and road conditions while maintaining strong fuel economy. The ST-Line shares the same efficient 300-horsepower EcoBoost® engine but adds sport-inspired styling and suspension tuning for a more athletic driving personality. Drivers can expect an estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive. The ST-Line delivers smooth highway cruising while maintaining responsive steering and confident handling that makes every drive more engaging. New for 2026, the Tremor transforms the Explorer into a genuine off-road-capable SUV. Featuring a factory-installed 1-inch suspension lift, Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and specialized drive modes, the Tremor is engineered for adventures beyond the pavement. It utilizes the 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine producing 300 horsepower while standard Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive enhances confidence on rough terrain. Fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, balancing off-road capability with everyday efficiency. The Platinum elevates the Explorer into premium SUV territory. Equipped with the same 300-horsepower EcoBoost® engine, it emphasizes refined highway performance, quiet operation, and smooth ride quality. Buyers seeking additional power may also have the option of Ford’s available 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 depending on equipment packages. With the standard engine, the Platinum is estimated at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway while delivering confident towing capability and effortless long-distance cruising. The ST stands alone as the performance flagship of the Explorer lineup. Its standard 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 produces an impressive 400 horsepower, launching the Explorer with sports-sedan levels of acceleration while maintaining the practicality of a three-row SUV. Upgraded sport suspension, larger performance brakes, paddle shifters, and Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive provide exceptional handling and stability. Fuel economy is estimated at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Whether merging onto highways or enjoying winding Texas roads, the ST delivers exhilarating performance without sacrificing everyday usability. Across every trim, the Explorer offers composed ride quality, confident towing capability of up to approximately 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, precise steering, and Ford engineering designed for both family adventures and daily commuting.