The 2026 Ford Explorer blends modern design, advanced capability, and family-friendly comfort, making it the ideal SUV for everything from daily drives to weekend escapes. Available now at Walnut Creek Ford, the Explorer brings strong towing power, refined interior features, and multiple trims so you can find the model that matches your lifestyle. Whether you're commuting through the East Bay or heading to the Sierras, the 2026 model is engineered to elevate every journey.
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2026 Ford Explorer Performance & Capability Highlights
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a lineup of turbocharged EcoBoost® engines designed to deliver confident power and efficiency:
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2.3L EcoBoost® I-4: The standard engine provides a robust 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, perfect for balancing daily efficiency with spirited performance.
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3.0L EcoBoost® V6: Available on the Tremor and standard on the ST, this twin-turbocharged powerhouse raises the bar with 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
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Tow with Confidence: Every 2026 Explorer comes standard with a Class III Trailer Tow Package, allowing you to tow up to 5,000 pounds with ease.
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Terrain Management System™: Navigate diverse conditions with six selectable drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail (RWD models) or Off-Road (4WD models).
The 2026 Explorer Trim Lineup
Choose the Explorer that fits your personality and needs:
- Active 100A: The entry-level trim that offers essential tech, standard Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+, a 300-hp engine, and seating for six with standard captain's chairs or seven with an available second-row bench seat.
- Active: The Active adds creature comforts like heated front-row seats, a power liftgate and active noise cancellation.
- ST-Line: Sporty aesthetics with blacked-out exterior accents, 20-inch wheels, and a performance-inspired interior.
- Tremor: Optimized for the trail, the Tremor adds an off-road-tuned suspension, limited-slip rear axle, all-terrain tires, underbody deflector plates, and unique interior accents.
- Platinum: The pinnacle of luxury featuring premium leather seating, heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats, a 14-speaker B&O® sound systemm ambient lighting, and more.
- ST: The ultimate performance trim, featuring a standard 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 enginem, sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters for a thrilling drive.
2026 Ford Explorer Technology & Connectivity
The 2026 Explorer features Ford Digital Experience, an Android-based infotainment system designed for seamless integration:
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Dual Displays: A massive 13.2-inch center touchscreen is paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for clear, customizable information.
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BlueCruise: Experience hands-free highway driving on over 130,000 miles of North American roads, now with automatic lane changing capability.
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Google Built-In: Access Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play store directly from your dashboard.
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Standard Safety: Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and intersection assist to keep your family safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new Tremor trim on the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The Tremor is a dedicated off-road trim. It features a lifted suspension for better ground clearance, rugged all-terrain tires, front and rear deflector plates, and a limited-slip rear axle to handle tough trails.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have BlueCruise?
Yes! BlueCruise is available on select 2026 trims. It allows for hands-free highway driving on pre-qualified Blue Zones and can now perform automatic lane changes when you activate your turn signal.
What is the Ford Digital Experience?
This is the new standard infotainment system for the 2026 Explorer. It is built on an Android platform, offering faster processing, better voice recognition through Google Assistant, and wireless compatibility for both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
How do I apply for financing at Walnut Creek Ford?
You can begin your finance application securely online through our website or sit down with our specialists in person to explore customized loan and lease options for the 2026 Explorer.
Can I trade in my current vehicle?
Absolutely. We offer a convenient online trade-in tool for a quick appraisal, or you can visit our Walnut Creek, CA, showroom for a professional on-site evaluation to ensure you get the best value toward your new Explorer.
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Find Your 2026 Ford Explorer at Walnut Creek Ford Today
Ready to experience the versatility of the 2026 Ford Explorer? Visit us in Walnut Creek, CA, to explore our inventory in person. Our team is here to help you compare trims, demonstrate the new Ford Digital Experience, and get you behind the wheel for a test drive.
Schedule your test drive today and see why the 2026 Explorer is the ultimate family SUV!