The 2026 Ford Explorer is nearly here to help families in Central Florida take their camping excursions and Disney road trips to the next level. Keep reading to learn more about this up-and-coming midsize SUV!
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Explorer introduces some exciting updates, including an all-new Tremor model!
- Thanks to performance features like all-wheel drive, the upcoming Explorer will handle Florida storms with ease.
- This midsize SUV is specially designed for comfy family travel, making it the perfect choice for adventurous Floridians!
- Starting around $40,025*, you can order the 2026 Explorer at your local Ford dealership.
Will the 2026 Ford Explorer be redesigned?
After a mid-cycle refresh just last year, the Explorer won’t see a full redesign for a few more model years. But that doesn’t mean we aren’t getting some exciting new changes for 2026! To start, there’s an all-new Tremor trim model — a rugged three-row SUV designed to help you delve deeper into your favorite Florida trails.
Even after last year’s many updates — including the all-new Ford Digital Experience infotainment system — the 2026 Explorer adds even more tech features to the roster. Every trim model will come standard with a one-year subscription to the Ford Connectivity Package, treating you to a Wi-Fi hotspot and Google-based navigation. When you’re parked, you can stream movies on the central touchscreen, via apps like Max, Peacock, and Prime Video!
Hands-free BlueCruise driving hardware is now more widely available, optional for the ST-Line and Tremor models (a separate software subscription is also necessary to use this feature). This technology is standard for the luxurious Explorer Platinum, along with a one-year software subscription.
There are also some cool new appearance features available! A new panoramic fixed glass roof with a power shade is available on any Explorer trim model, brightening your daily drive (but also giving you the option of protecting the cabin from the summer sun). Finally, drivers can choose a new exterior paint color: Marsh Gray.
How does the 2026 Ford Explorer handle on wet roads?
During Florida’s rainy season, the Explorer’s Terrain Management System comes in handy! In a bad storm, switch into Slippery mode to avoid slipping through water-laden roads. This same drive mode is also a good choice when the roads are coated with sand! With standard rear-wheel drive, your Explorer offers six Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail. With all-wheel drive, there’s an extra option: Deep Snow/Sand.
To help keep your grip on an especially slick road, we recommend adding all-wheel drive to your Explorer’s powertrain! This performance gear automatically detects slippage and sends power to the front wheels whenever necessary, helping you and your loved ones navigate an unexpected storm as safely as possible. This performance technology also has a sporty side, supplying the necessary traction to escort your family travel down muddy trails and sandy shores alike!
2026 Explorer Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.3L EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 311 lb-ft)
- Optional for Tremor, standard on ST: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Can the 2026 Ford Explorer handle long drives around Central Florida?
Absolutely! Last year’s updates made the modern Explorer one of the best midsize SUVs for lengthy family trips. Like its predecessor, the upcoming 2026 Explorer helps you beat the heat with standard three-zone automatic climate control. All three rows of seating provide cushy contours, along with the support you need to keep comfortable for hours at a time! Depending on which Explorer trim model you select, you can also enjoy luxuries like leather seating.
Plus, every trim model includes the Ford Digital Experience, a Google-based infotainment system introduced for 2025. And since the upcoming SUV adds a one-year subscription to the Ford Connectivity Package, passengers can spend long trips surfing the Web on up to 10 devices. Your kids can keep themselves busy for hours at a time with homework, games, movies, and more!
How much is the 2026 Ford Explorer?
Great question! Although you won’t find an official MSRP online just yet, some estimate the upcoming SUV will start around $40,025. However, the 2026 Ford Explorer is already available to order at your local Ford dealer! Feel free to contact us at Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Davenport for more information on how much your SUV will cost.