2026 Ford Explorer

2026 Ford Explorer in Kenosha, WI

When your life calls for more — more space, more capability, more confidence on every kind of road — the 2026 Ford Explorer answers without hesitation. Available now at Gordie Boucher Ford of Kenosha, the Explorer is a three-row midsize SUV built for families, adventurers, and anyone who refuses to compromise between everyday practicality and genuine driving enjoyment. Whether you're loading up for a weekend at Devil's Lake, navigating the school pickup line, or making the most of a long highway drive, the Explorer is engineered to handle it all with ease. Stop by 7820 120th Ave, Kenosha, WI and see why the Explorer has been one of America's most trusted SUVs for decades.

Ford Explorer Features

• Three-row seating for up to seven or eight passengers depending on configuration
• Available rear-wheel drive and intelligent all-wheel drive across all trims
• Available turbocharged and hybrid powertrains to suit different driving priorities
• Standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist technology across all trims
• Available 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Up to 87.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space

The Explorer has earned its reputation over generations of American families by consistently delivering the space, technology, and dependability that real life demands — and the 2026 model continues that tradition with meaningful refinements throughout.

On-Road and Off-Road Capability

The Explorer is equally at home on the interstate and on unpaved terrain. Its available all-wheel drive system and terrain management modes give Kenosha-area drivers the confidence to venture beyond the paved road when the weekend calls for it.

• Available intelligent all-wheel drive with automatic engagement for confident traction in rain, snow, and loose conditions
• Selectable drive modes including Normal, Sport, Trail, Slippery, Sand, and Eco
• Trail Control™ available for low-speed off-road situations, acting as cruise control for the trail
• Available adaptive suspension for a composed, controlled ride on varied surfaces
• Sport mode sharpens throttle response and steering feel for a more engaging drive
• 8.1 inches of ground clearance on select trims for navigating light off-road terrain
• Available terrain management system with dedicated settings for mud, ruts, and sand

From snow-covered Wisconsin back roads in January to gravel forest trails in the warmer months, the Explorer's capability adapts to the conditions rather than asking you to change your plans.

Cargo Space & Storage

Three rows of seating and serious cargo capacity are a difficult combination to get right. The Explorer manages it with a thoughtfully packaged interior that gives passengers and gear room to coexist without compromise.

• 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row
• 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded
• 87.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with both rear rows folded flat
• Available hands-free power liftgate for convenient loading when your hands are full
• Power-folding third row on select trims for quick, effortless transitions between passenger and cargo modes
• 60/40 split-folding second-row seats for flexible interior configurations
• Available second-row captain's chairs for an open walkthrough to the third row
• Multiple in-cabin storage pockets, cubbies, and cupholders distributed throughout all three rows

Whether you're packing sports equipment for a tournament weekend or hauling supplies for a home project, the Explorer's cargo flexibility means you rarely have to leave anything behind.

Towing Capability

The Explorer's body-on-frame heritage informs a towing capability that puts it ahead of most midsize SUV competition. When you need to bring a trailer along, the Explorer is prepared.

• Towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped — capable of handling boats, campers, and loaded utility trailers
• Available factory tow package with trailer hitch receiver and integrated wiring harness
• Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ available to simplify reverse trailer maneuvering
• Trailer sway control helps maintain stability on highways and winding roads
• Hill Start Assist prevents rollback when towing on grades
• Available Trailer Brake Controller for trailers equipped with electric brakes
• 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 recommended for maximum towing applications

A pontoon headed to a Northern Wisconsin lake, a camper for a family road trip, or a loaded cargo trailer for a weekend project — the Explorer handles serious towing with the confidence of a purpose-equipped hauler.

Technology

• Available 13.2-inch touchscreen with SYNC® 4 technology
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration
• Available B&O Sound System for a premium audio experience across all three rows
• FordPass™ Connect with remote start, vehicle status, and location services
• Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with customizable displays
• Available wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C charging ports throughout the cabin
• Available rear-seat entertainment system for second- and third-row passengers

The Explorer's technology ecosystem is designed to keep every occupant connected and entertained — whether that's the driver navigating an unfamiliar route or the kids in the third row on a long drive north.

Interior

• Three rows of thoughtfully designed seating with genuine comfort for adult passengers in all positions
• Available heated and ventilated front seats with available heated second-row seats
• Available heated steering wheel for cold Wisconsin mornings
• Available dual-zone or tri-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort across all rows
• Available premium leather-trimmed seating surfaces with contrast stitching
• Available panoramic Vista Roof® for a bright, open cabin atmosphere
• Quiet cabin engineering with active noise cancellation on select trims

The Explorer's interior is designed around the reality that every seat matters. From the driver's position to the third row, occupants are treated to a cabin that feels considered rather than simply sufficient.

Exterior

• Bold, upright front fascia with a wide stance and commanding road presence
• Available LED headlamps and signature daytime running lights
• Available 21-inch machined aluminum wheels
• ST model features a sport-tuned exterior with exclusive styling elements
• Timberline trim adds rugged exterior cues, skid plates, and all-terrain tires for a trail-ready appearance
• Sculpted body lines and a clean roofline that balances style with interior headroom

The Explorer's exterior presence communicates its capability without overstatement — a substantial, well-proportioned SUV that looks as capable as it performs in every trim level.

Performance

• Standard 2.3L EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower
• Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 producing 400 horsepower in ST trim
• Available Explorer Hybrid powertrain combining a 3.3L V6 with electric assist
• Ten-speed automatic transmission for smooth, responsive power delivery
• Rear-wheel drive standard; intelligent all-wheel drive available across trims
• Timberline trim adds off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires as standard equipment

With three distinct powertrain options — including a high-output V6 and an electrified hybrid — the Explorer gives drivers the ability to choose performance that matches how they actually use their SUV.

Ford Co-Pilot360™ Safety Technology

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System and Lane-Centering Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
• Available Rear View Camera with dynamic hitch assist
• Available 360-degree camera system for tight maneuvering
• Available Evasive Steering Assist

Ford's Co-Pilot360™ suite comes standard on every Explorer trim, ensuring that every family who drives one benefits from a full layer of intelligent safety and driver-assist technology from day one.

Ford Explorer Trim Levels

• Explorer: A well-equipped entry point with Co-Pilot360™, SYNC® 4, and three-row seating standard
• Explorer XLT: Enhanced comfort, technology, and exterior styling for the most popular configuration
• Explorer Timberline: Trail-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and rugged styling for adventure-ready drivers
• Explorer ST-Line: Sport-inspired exterior and interior styling with a dynamic character
• Explorer ST: The performance flagship with a 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 and sport-tuned handling
• Explorer Platinum: The premium pinnacle of the Explorer lineup with luxury materials and top-tier technology
• Explorer Hybrid: Available across select trims for drivers who want three-row practicality with electrified efficiency

From the well-rounded base trim to the performance-focused ST and luxury-appointed Platinum, every Explorer is built on the same foundation of capability and confidence — the differences are in how you want to experience it.

Ford Explorer vs. Ford Escape: What's the Difference?

Both are capable, well-rounded Ford SUVs — but they're designed around different needs and lifestyles. Here's how they compare:

• Size & Seating: The Explorer offers three rows and seating for up to seven or eight passengers; the Escape is a compact two-row SUV for five.
• Cargo Capacity: The Explorer's maximum cargo volume of 87.8 cubic feet significantly exceeds the Escape's 65.4 cubic feet, giving it a clear advantage for larger families and longer trips.
• Towing: The Explorer tows up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped; the Escape handles up to 3,500 lbs on non-hybrid models.
• Powertrain Range: Both offer hybrid options, but the Explorer adds an available 400-horsepower V6 for performance-minded drivers.
• Daily Maneuverability: The Escape's compact footprint makes it easier to navigate tight city streets and parking structures. The Explorer's larger presence is better suited to suburban and highway driving.
• Who It's For: The Escape suits smaller households prioritizing efficiency and urban agility. The Explorer is built for growing families and drivers who regularly need more space, more towing, and more capability.

Choose the Escape for a refined, efficient daily driver in a compact package. Choose the Explorer when three rows, serious towing, and genuine versatility are non-negotiable.

Frequently Asked Questions: 2026 Ford Explorer

How many passengers does the 2026 Ford Explorer seat?

The 2026 Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers in the standard bench-seat second-row configuration, or up to six with the available second-row captain's chairs. Three rows of seating make it well-suited for larger families and group travel.

How much can the 2026 Ford Explorer tow?

When properly equipped with the available tow package and 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, the 2026 Explorer can tow up to 5,600 lbs. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® four-cylinder also provides capable towing for a wide range of trailers and recreational equipment.

What is the cargo space in the 2026 Ford Explorer?

The Explorer offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 87.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with both rear rows folded flat. A power-folding third row is available on select trims for added convenience.

Is the 2026 Ford Explorer available as a hybrid?

Yes. The 2026 Ford Explorer is available in a hybrid configuration that pairs a 3.3L V6 engine with electric assist. It's available across select trim levels for drivers who want three-row practicality alongside improved efficiency.

What engines are available in the 2026 Ford Explorer?

The Explorer is offered with a standard 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost® four-cylinder, an available 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 in the ST trim, and an available hybrid powertrain with a 3.3L V6 and electric motor for efficiency-focused buyers.

Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have all-wheel drive?

Intelligent all-wheel drive is available across Explorer trim levels and automatically engages based on road conditions. The Timberline trim pairs AWD with off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires for drivers who want genuine trail capability.

Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have Apple CarPlay?

Yes. The 2026 Explorer includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, with available SYNC® 4 technology on a 13.2-inch touchscreen across higher trim levels.

Is the 2026 Ford Explorer available near Kenosha, WI?

Yes. The 2026 Ford Explorer is available at Gordie Boucher Ford of Kenosha, located at 7820 120th Ave, Kenosha, WI. Contact our team to explore current inventory, compare trim and powertrain options, or schedule a test drive.

What trim levels does the 2026 Ford Explorer come in?

The 2026 Explorer is available in Explorer, XLT, Timberline, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims, with hybrid configurations available on select trim levels. Each trim is built on the same capable three-row foundation with progressive upgrades in technology, performance, and refinement.