2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions, Colors, Price – Subtle refinements sum up the changes to the 2026 Ford Explorer, which has been updated — but not entirely overhauled — after half a decade on the market. The most significant change is version 1.2 of Ford’s BlueCruise driver assistance system, which offers hands-free driving in specific highway scenarios. The interior has a more minimalist look, with new materials and finishes that make the space feel cozier than before. Meanwhile, the exterior has been touched up, too. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
2026 Ford Explorer Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior and Interior
The calibration of the transmission is one of the more apparent improvements for the 2026 Explorer. Jerky performance at low speeds has given way to more sure-footed gear selection and smoother shifts. The base suspension’s ride and handling is balanced, hitting the sweet spot between low-speed cornering and high-speed comfort. For a little extra performance and firmness, there’s always the ST.
Inside, the portrait-orientation tablet infotainment screen has been replaced by a more conventional 13.2-inch unit that’s mounted horizontally. Climate controls have moved into the touchscreen interface, which is more distracting to operate, even though it gives a cleaner look to match the new minimalistic interior design. The 12.3-inch digital instrument display is clear and concise, and the dashboard materials are nicer than last year’s model. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
2026 Ford Explorer Specs
Version 1.2 of BlueCruise adds more intelligent highway cruising and hands-free driving in a handful of scenarios. After tapping the turn signal stalk, the Explorer can scan the road and perform automatic lane changes without driver involvement. What’s more, while most systems focus on what’s immediately ahead of you, in-lane repositioning can shift the Explorer over to give more space when driving alongside large trucks. BlueCruise can also automatically reduce the vehicle’s speed as it approaches a bend in the road.
Of course, these semi-autonomous driver assists do not negate the need for a driver to pay full attention to the road and should only be used to help reduce fatigue on longer trips. If the system enters a section of road that hasn’t been mapped, drivers are expected to take control following a visual and audible warning. After an initial 90-day trial period, a subscription plan is required to continue using Blue Cruise. Paid customers can expect continual road and mapping updates to keep up with changes in the real world. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
Engine and Performance
Powertrain choices remain mostly unchanged from last year, although the hybrid setup is now reserved exclusively for the Police Interceptor version — apparently to meet growing demand from law enforcement. That means the Explorer’s two existing gas-only options soldier on for civilian use. There’s a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder that makes 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, while a twin-turbo V6 ups the ante with the sporty ST.
The flagship Platinum trim can be had with either engine. Both engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the ST gets paddle shifters. While the Explorer is available with the choice of rear- or all-wheel drive in the United States, it’s offered only with the latter in Canada. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
2026 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
Despite having a rear-wheel drive-based platform, a move from an optional Class IV hitch to a standard Class III hookup means the 2026 Ford Explorer can tow 2,268 kg (5,000 lb) across the board, down slightly from the 2,404-2,540 kg (5,300-5,600 lb) from before. The Dodge Durango has less cargo volume but can tow 2,812 kg (6,200 lb) or 3,357 kg (7,400 lb) with its V6 or V8 engines, respectively.
In addition to going up against the Dodge, the 2026 Explorer’s updates keep it competitive against the likes of the Toyota Grand Highlander, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia. They’re all very close in terms of cargo and passenger space, and each brings a different flavour to the table. The Toyota offers superior fuel economy with its hybrid powertrains, and the others offer bolder styling. With the ST model, the Explorer is the best handling of the bunch, but the Durango wins the towing race. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
2026 Ford Explorer Safety Features
All 2026 Explorers come standard with a government-mandated rearview camera with built-in washer, reverse sensing system, hill descent control, post-impact braking, and a safety suite that includes automatic LED headlights with auto high-beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, and forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. Indeed, that pretty much covers all the bases.
This tester added an upgrade package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-centring, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist. At $1,000, it’s excellent value. Outward visibility is improved over the outgoing model, and if you include better agility as a safety feature, this redesigned Explorer delivers on that front, too. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions
2026 Ford Explorer Price and Release Date
The 2026 Ford Explorer starts at $50,535 before freight and taxes, and the ST and Platinum trims hover around the $70,000 mark. The pricing solidifies it in the middle of the heat map for mainstream SUVs this size thanks to its balance of practicality, performance, styling, safety, and technology. BlueCruise works well for long-distance road warriors, and the updates to the transmission take away one of last year’s more significant drawbacks. It may not be the class winner in most categories, but it’s a well-rounded choice that fits in with families as a jack of all trades. 2026 Ford Explorer Dimensions