Model Overview
A Closer Look at the 2026 Ford Explorer
The 2026 Ford Explorer® is the kind of three-row SUV that rewards smart, research-driven shoppers. If you’re cross-shopping midsize SUVs around Luray, VA, you’ll notice the Explorer builds on a rear-wheel-drive foundation for confident dynamics, offers available Intelligent 4WD for year-round traction, and balances family-friendly versatility with technology that truly improves daily driving. From its standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 to the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in performance and off-road focused trims, the Explorer meets a wide range of needs for Page County drivers. Add available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space, and 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, and you have a well-rounded SUV that fits commutes on US-211, carpool lines near town, and weekend drives through Shenandoah National Park. Below, we walk through the key capabilities, features, and trims to help you choose the best 2026 Explorer for your lifestyle—and how our team at Marlow Ford can make the process seamless from the first test drive to your long-term ownership experience.
On the Road
Performance and Capability for Every Mile
The 2026 Ford Explorer is engineered to be confident, capable, and composed across highways and backroads alike. Its rear-wheel-drive architecture supports balanced handling and robust towing, while the available Intelligent 4WD system helps on gravel lanes and mountain switchbacks leading to Skyline Drive. A standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 delivers responsive power and everyday efficiency, and the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 brings serious muscle—especially in trims tuned for performance or off-road travel. With 5,000 lbs of towing capacity and a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package on select models, the Explorer is well-suited for weekend trailers, small campers, or utility gear. Selectable drive modes, an available Torsen® limited-slip rear axle on Tremor®, off-road tuned suspension, and underbody protection work together to expand your map. Whether you spend more time on I-81 or on gravel roads near the river, the Explorer’s mix of stability, torque, and smart traction helps every mile feel easy.
Engine:
2.3L EcoBoost I-4
Max hp:
400 hp (available)
Towing:
5,000 lbs
Drivetrain:
RWD or available Intelligent 4WD
Inside the Cabin
Interior Comfort and Technology
- Seating: Up to seven passengers with flexible second and third rows
- Cargo: Up to 85.8 cu ft of max cargo space for gear and groceries
- Sound: Available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers including subwoofer
- Digital Experience: Ford Digital Experience for seamless apps, media, and personalization
- Connectivity: Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi® capability and smart device integration
- Comfort: Available heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats
- Ambience: Available Ambient Lighting for a refined cabin atmosphere
Inside the 2026 Explorer, comfort and technology are designed to make daily life feel easier and long trips more enjoyable. Available seating for up to seven and generous cargo space help you transition from school pick-up to weekend projects without missing a beat. The Ford Digital Experience brings much of your everyday digital life into the vehicle with intuitive menus and app integration, while the Ford Connectivity Package helps keep passengers engaged with streaming and productivity tools when parked. Available premium audio by B&O® immerses the cabin in rich sound, and available features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats add a welcome touch of luxury to your morning drive on US-340 or evening runs to downtown Luray. With thoughtful storage, smart charging, and quality materials throughout, the Explorer’s interior is built for real families and real schedules.
Driver Confidence
Safety and Driver Assist Features
- BlueCruise: Available hands-free highway driving assistance on pre-qualified sections
- Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control and more
- Pre-Collision Assist: Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- BLIS®: Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System: Helps you stay centered and alerts to drift
- 360-Degree Camera: Available multi-view camera for low-speed maneuvering
- Parking Aids: Rear Parking Sensors and guidance
- Evasive Steering Assist: Helps support steering around slower vehicles
- Intersection Assist: Helps watch for oncoming traffic when turning
The 2026 Explorer complements its confident road manners with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. Available BlueCruise makes highway miles less tiring by handling acceleration, braking, and steering while you keep your eyes on the road. Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies offer key support in heavy traffic, from Adaptive Cruise Control that smooths out stop-and-go along US-211 to BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert that helps when backing out of tight spots downtown. Available 360-Degree Camera and parking aids take the stress out of low-speed maneuvering, and features like Evasive Steering Assist and Intersection Assist help enhance your overall awareness. The result is an SUV that’s tuned to help you feel more confident every time you drive.
Trim Options
2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
| Trim | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Active 100A | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4, Rear-wheel drive, Selectable drive modes, Class III Trailer Tow Package |
| Active | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4, Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+, Heated front-row seats, Power liftgate |
| ST-Line | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4, 360-Degree Camera, Unique durable cloth-trimmed seats with red stitching, B&O® Sound System |
| Tremor® | Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, Off-road tuned suspension, Underbody protection |
| Platinum™ | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4, BlueCruise equipped, Heated/ventilated/massaging front seats with leather inserts, Available panoramic roof |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, BlueCruise equipped, Sport-tuned suspension, Performance brakes with red-painted calipers |
We’ve Got You Covered
Why Buy from Marlow Ford in Luray, VA
We know how people around Luray actually use their SUVs—commuting along US-211, packing up for Shenandoah trails, and doing life in all its day-to-day stops and starts. Our team matches that local insight with a simple, transparent process. Browse online, see real-time availability, value your trade, and get pre-qualified before you step into our showroom. Then, after you find your 2026 Explorer, keep life moving with our service conveniences like Mobile Service and Pick-Up & Delivery. From the first handshake to your 30,000-mile service, our goal is to help you enjoy ownership every day.
- Local Expertise: Guidance tailored to Shenandoah Valley driving and terrain
- Express Tools: Shop online, apply for financing, and schedule test drives with ease
- Fast Trade Values: Transparent, accurate appraisals for your current vehicle
- Service Convenience: Mobile Service and Pick-Up & Delivery available
- Trusted Team: Ford-trained advisors focused on your long-term ownership
- Community Roots: Proudly serving Page County drivers for decades
Trade-In Tools
Value Your Trade with Marlow Ford
Putting your current vehicle’s value toward a new 2026 Explorer is straightforward with our online trade-in tools. Share a few details about your car, truck, or SUV, get a clear estimate, and see your potential equity right away. You can apply that value to reduce your financed amount or simply streamline the paperwork when you arrive. If you’d like, start your financing application at home and save time at delivery—our team can finalize the numbers while you take a relaxed test drive and explore your preferred trim and features.
Start My Appraisal
Competitive Strengths
How the 2026 Ford Explorer Stands Out
- Rear-Drive DNA: RWD architecture enhances towing, balance, and confident handling
- Hands-Free Highway: Available BlueCruise brings a true hands-free assist that many rivals lack
- Off-Road Hardware: Tremor® adds Torsen® LSD, ride height, and underbody protection rarely matched
- Tow-Ready: Up to 5,000 lbs of towing with standard Class III readiness on select models
- Power Options: Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 with up to 400 hp outmuscles many competitors
- Smart Cabin: Ford Digital Experience integrates everyday apps for an intuitive interface
In a segment where many SUVs are front-wheel-drive based and emphasize soft-road manners, the 2026 Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive foundation pays dividends in stability and towing confidence. Available BlueCruise stands apart as a true hands-free highway assist—something not all alternatives can match. If you want dirt-road credibility, the Tremor® package’s Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension, and added protection give the Explorer real trail chops without compromising on-road comfort. Factor in strong available power from the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 and a technology package centered on the Ford Digital Experience, and the Explorer becomes a standout for Luray drivers who split their time between I-81 trips, Skyline Drive views, and everyday errands. Where the competition may offer less towing, less off-road substance, or less intuitive tech, the Explorer threads the needle—delivering capability that fits our local roads and lifestyles.
Start Shopping
Next Steps for Your 2026 Ford Explorer Search
Ready to take the next step? Browse our 2026 Ford Explorer inventory to see in-stock colors and trims, then schedule a test drive to compare features like BlueCruise, the Ford Digital Experience, and cargo flexibility in person. You can start your financing application online, value your trade, and even map out your monthly plan from home. If you have questions about towing setups, roof accessories, or the best trim for your must-have features, our team is here to help. When you’re ready, stop by to experience just how easy it is to shop, sign, and drive in Luray.
Local Support
Proudly Serving Luray, VA Drivers
From school-day routines to scenic weekend drives, the 2026 Ford Explorer is built for how we live here in the Shenandoah Valley. Our team at Marlow Ford is proud to support local drivers with knowledgeable guidance, a smooth buying process, and convenient service that respects your time. If you’re comparing trims, exploring off-road options, or simply want a comfortable, capable three-row SUV for family life in and around Luray, we’re ready to help you find the Explorer that feels just right.
*Vehicle images and features shown are for illustration only and may vary by trim and option.
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