The 2026 Ford Explorer in a Nutshell
The Ford Explorer has been with us for the last 35 years. It was once America’s best-selling SUV, and if you ask the children of the ’90s if they’ve been in one, chances are they’ll say yes. While it no longer sells in the numbers it once did, it remains the most popular choice in the midsize crossover class. It’s also become America’s favorite police vehicle, with the mere sight of its headlights forcing many to lay off the throttle for a second.
Now in its sixth generation, the first batch of models launched in 2019 had a rocky start due to quality control problems brought on by the pandemic and the semiconductor shortage that followed. It’s been rectified since, and the current model received an update in 2024 for the 2025 model year. With that, the 2026 model largely carries over unchanged, apart from the addition of the off-road-oriented Tremor.
Speaking of trims, there are six on offer with two powertrain options and two drivetrain choices. 2026 Explorer prices range from $38,465 to $54,905.
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2026 Ford Explorer Lease Deals for November
All Explorer trims are available with a special lease deal this November. However, it’s the entry-level Active 100A that appears most attractive. Lease prices start at less than $400 per month at $394 for 36 months with a due at signing fee of $4,410. Mileage is restricted to 10,500 miles per year, and there is an additional $0.20 for every mile exceeded.
Curious about the other trims? The Active costs $414 per month, while the ST-Line costs $481 per month. Go for the Tremor, and it bumps up the monthly payments to $474 per month, and the Platinum is $552 per month. As for the ST, that would be $577 per month. The same terms and conditions apply to all trims, and this offer is valid until December 1, 2025.
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2026 Ford Explorer Highlights
The Active 100A is a value-oriented trim package, and the only one that starts under $40,000 and already includes features such as advanced driver-assist systems, including adaptive cruise control. Above that is the Active that adds a power tailgate and heated front seats. Go for the ST-Line and it gets sportier accents plus and Bang and Olufsen sound system.
For the Tremor, it comes with all-wheel drive standard, along with more ground clearance, a limited-slip differential, underbody protection, and Tremor-exclusive exterior upgrades. Meanwhile, the Platinum gets more luxury features plus BlueCruise, which gives it greater semi-autonomous driving capabilities. As for the ST, it features stiffer springs and dampers, upgraded brakes, and the 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost engine as standard.
Speaking of engines, most are powered by the 2.3-liter Ecoboost that makes 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 is optional on the Tremor and, as mentioned earlier, standard on the ST. The two added cylinders and extra turbo give it an output of 400hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is optional for all trims but the Tremor.
There are two other engines available, but they’re exclusive to the Police Interceptor Utility. That would be the 3.3-liter V6 (285hp, 260 lb-ft) and the hybrid version of that (318 hp, 332 lb-ft).
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Final Thoughts
Despite the initial stumble, the Explorer has managed to hold on to the title of America’s best-selling midsize crossover. The facelift rectified the misgivings of the older models, but retained the traits that continue to make it a default choice in its class. It might not be the most dynamic or exciting choice, but the Explorer does the job for many. Just ask your local deputy. They’re still stuck with the pre-facelift model, though.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.
About the author
Anton Andres
News Editor