New Ford Explorer Review
New Ford Explorer in Phoenix, AZ
37 Vehicles Available
New Ford Explorer Review | New Dual Screen Cockpit Adds Excitement
With more amenities and technologies to please today’s families, the popular Ford Explorer returns for the new model year.
For 2026, Ford has added two large screens to the dash. It also makes BlueCruise hands-free driving functions more widely available. For curb appeal, it has updated the exterior style and given a boost of style and comfort to the interior.
How would this big rig match your lifestyle? Get answers in this review of the 2026 Ford Explorer in Phoenix.
Performance
The Explorer's performance is particularly potent despite its Ecoboost fuel economy focus. The standard turbocharged engine is a pleasure to drive, offering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is considered one of the best in its class. It's certainly more fun than many family drivers expect these days.
On the other hand, if you want a serious mover and shaker, the Ford Explorer ST in Phoenix offers up 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Handling for this high-output turbo V6 benefits from a sport-tuned suspension. All Explorers have a 10-speed automatic transmission specially calibrated for this Ford SUV.
With its standard 8.2-inch ground clearance, the Explorer fearlessly takes on backroads. Rear-wheel drive can rely on terrain management modes to deal with tricky traction on campground roads. Four-wheel drive makes the Explorer even more capable especially with a front skid plate as standard equipment.
Cabin Specs and Tow Ratings
Called a midsize SUV, the figures for this big rig suggest something more. 2026 Ford Explorers in Phoenix have grown bigger. Still seating 7 in standard layout, available captain's chairs are part of a 6-person layout. Either way, you have four seats with full LATCH attachments for child safety seats.
Explorers offer many advantages for hauling gear, even at short notice. Some of our favorites are the EZ Entry seats, power-fold third row, and power liftgate. The cargo hold goes from good to cavernous as you fold the seats. You can further increase carrying capacity by adding roof rack rails.
These big rigs can pull a big load. Trailering equipment is standard, and tow ratings are an estimated 5,000 pounds. 2026 Ford Explorer owners should feel free to bring along adventure toys, small campers or boats.
Interior
Always family friendly, the 2026 Ford Explorer comes equipped with comforts and amenities that make kids and parents feel at home. Upholstery is offered in Active X, perforated leather, and a new Sanctuary leather. Seat inserts are offered in Miko suede or diamond-perforated leather.
The driver is treated to favorites like a power tilt-telescoping steering column, ventilated power seats, and voice-activated climate controls. For the little ones, there are sun blinds, extra HVAC ducts, and rear-seat HVAC controls to keep them comfortable. Teenagers will appreciate the second-row legroom and dedicated USB ports.
A twin-panel glass roof adds an adventurous feel when a family is on the go. Explorer trim levels include Active, ST-Line, Platinum and ST. Plus convenient packages help you find just the right fit.
Technology
Inside the Explorer, families will find exciting dash technology that simplifies interactions and maximizes functionality. With its new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 13.2-inch touchscreen, this SUV keeps you connected with the latest information, navigational assistance, and entertainment.
The totally new -- and five times faster -- interface allows you to connect with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto seamlessly. Plus Google Assistant is built in, or, if you use Amazon Alexa, you can choose to use that system.
Kids can get online with the available 5G WiFi hotspot. Plus they can enjoy entertainment from a rear seat screen system.
For the first time, the driver has on-screen entertainment options such as YouTube, Prime Video, and Google Play games. These can be used when the SUV is parked. Ford increased graphics processing by 14 times to make this happen..
Did you know? A quick quote will reveal new Explorer price details for your favorite trim level and the rich array of technology features that come with it.
Safety
The Co-Pilot360™ system is just the starting point for Ford's comprehensive driver assistance suite. If you commute in busy traffic every day, adaptive cruise control is for you. It will slow down as traffic slows and then pick up the pace as soon as there’s an opening.
Ford technology includes a blind spot monitor and a lane departure system. These two provide a blanket of protection against the common reasons for side collisions.
Navigating and parking the new Ford Explorer is a breeze with a choice of a rearview or 360-degree view camera system. A rear cross traffic alert will reduce the chances of a side crash. If you're into towing, the trailer extension on the blind spot system is a must-have feature.
With semi-automatic Blue Cruise, Ford takes adaptive cruise control to the next logical level. This is the first year that the system is offered on almost all trims. In fact, it includes a free trial with certain trim levels.
To learn more about this all new Ford Explorer 3 row SUV, you are invited to schedule a test drive or just drop by your Rodeo Ford dealership.
At this dealership, most new vehicles include the “No Bull Protection Package” which is inclusive of highly demanded premium window tint. The cost of the No Bull Protection Package is $599 at this dealership.
On all vehicles, actual vehicle sale price and payments may vary for various reasons - including but not limited to - applicable manufacturer rebates, special limited time offers, dealer incentives, taxes, fees, and buyer's credit qualifications, dealer installed accessories, market product (or vehicle) scarcity and $599.00 dealer doc fee.
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Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown.
Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.