At Marlow Ford in Luray, VA, we understand that drivers across the Shenandoah Valley and nearby towns like Stanley and Front Royal value comfort, safety, and convenience during long trips. The 2026 Ford Explorer, now available with Ford BlueCruise, is designed to make extended highway drives easier and more relaxing. But what exactly makes it such a strong option for Virginia road trips? Let’s take a closer look.

Hands-Free Confidence with Ford BlueCruise

BlueCruise is Ford’s cutting-edge hands-free driving technology, available on compatible highways known as “Blue Zones.” Using advanced sensors, cameras, and GPS data, BlueCruise allows the Explorer to maintain lane position, control speed, and manage braking—all while letting you take your hands off the wheel on approved stretches of road.

For drivers traveling from Luray to cities like Richmond or Washington, D.C., this technology helps reduce fatigue on long highway drives. It’s especially beneficial when covering miles of open interstate or commuting along the Shenandoah Valley’s major routes.

Even though BlueCruise can handle steering and acceleration, it still keeps the driver engaged by monitoring attention through interior cameras—ensuring a safe and relaxed journey without losing focus.

Designed for Comfort and Long-Distance Travel

The 2026 Ford Explorer offers the perfect balance of space, luxury, and practicality, making it ideal for families and travelers. The updated cabin features redesigned seating, premium materials, and an advanced infotainment system with a large touchscreen display.

Long trips feel effortless with available massaging front seats, tri-zone climate control, and wireless connectivity for smartphones and devices. The Explorer’s noise-reducing interior ensures a smooth, quiet ride—ideal for those scenic drives through the Shenandoah Valley.

The SUV’s generous cargo space also accommodates luggage, gear, and essentials for extended getaways, making it as functional as it is comfortable.

Safety and Driver Assistance Beyond BlueCruise

In addition to Ford BlueCruise, the 2026 Explorer includes a suite of advanced driver-assistance features designed for protection and peace of mind. Standard systems like Lane-Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control work together to help you stay safe throughout your journey.

BlueCruise adds an extra layer of convenience for highway travel, but the Explorer’s comprehensive safety systems ensure that drivers remain supported even when conditions require manual control.

Is the 2026 Ford Explorer with BlueCruise Right for You?

If your lifestyle includes frequent highway trips, family vacations, or long-distance drives from Luray to major Virginia destinations, the 2026 Ford Explorer with BlueCruise is an excellent choice. Its hands-free driving capability helps reduce fatigue, while its comfort features and spacious design make every mile more enjoyable.

For those who primarily drive locally around Luray, Stanley, or Front Royal, the Explorer still offers exceptional versatility and comfort, even without relying on BlueCruise.

Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer at Marlow Ford in Luray, VA

Our team proudly serves drivers throughout the Shenandoah Valley, Stanley, and Front Royal, helping you find the right vehicle for every journey—long or short. Explore the 2026 Explorer today and discover how Ford’s latest technology is redefining the modern road trip.