When it comes to choosing the right family SUV, the 2026 Ford Explorer consistently rises to the top. With a lineup built to handle everything from school runs to weekend trails, it offers the versatility, space, and technology that modern families need—and the rugged durability, off-road prowess, and power you want. It’s hard to think of an SUV more perfect for families and adventurers in Sumner, Washington to enjoy everything the Pacific Northwest offers. The Explorer doesn’t just fit into your active lifestyles—it enhances them. This guide breaks down exactly what the Explorer has to offer.
Unrelenting Performance and Power
The 2026 Ford Explorer delivers strong, capable performance with 2 engine choices tailored to different driving needs. Most trims come standard with a robust 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, producing a turbocharged 300 hp and 310 lbs.-ft. of torque. This engine provides a confident mix of everyday power and efficiency.
If you crave more of an adrenaline rush, or want a powerhouse to overcome the most challenging off-road obstacles, the 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® V6 — standard on the sporty ST and available on the rugged Tremor® and Platinum™ — pumps out 400 hp and 415 lbs.-ft. of torque. This beast makes the Explorer ST the fastest Explorer model ever built. And when paired with the Tremor® trim’s standard Intelligent 4WD and other off-road enhancements, you’ve got a machine that urges you to take a long detour.
All Explorer models also come standard with the Class III Tow Package, letting you tow up to 5,000 lbs. — ideal for families hauling boats, trailers, or campers.
Interior Space and Comfort: Room to Grow
Okay, practically speaking, the 2026 Ford Explorer is designed with families in mind, offering seating for up to 7 passengers across 3 rows. 2nd-row captain’s chairs are standard on most trims, while a second-row bench seat — standard on the ST-Line — adds the seventh seating position. The Tremor® trim seats 6 with standard captain’s chairs.
Cargo space is equally impressive. With all the seats up and occupied, you’ve got over 16 cu. ft. of space for everyday stuff, while folding the rear rows down gets you a max cargo volume of 85.8 cu. ft. — enough for road trips, sports gear, or an especially successful shopping trip. Higher trims feature PowerFold® 3rd-row seats, making reconfiguring the cabin effortless. The Explorer’s cabin prioritizes comfort throughout. Available heated, ventilated, massaging seats, leather upholstery, and a panoramic fixed glass roof — available on all 2026 models as a new addition for this model year — elevate the experience for every passenger. For those seeking the ultimate in refinement, the Platinum™ trim adds exclusive interior appointments to round out the lineup.
Technology and Safety: Keeping Families Connected and Protected
The 2026 Ford Explorer comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ across all trims, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Keeping Assist, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and Blind Spot Information System. This is not a higher-trim upgrade — it is standard equipment on every Explorer.
For connectivity, every 2026 Explorer features a standard 13.2” touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC® 4A infotainment system, paired with a 12.3 digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, along with 8 USB ports, a Wi-Fi® hotspot, and over-the-air software update capability. Drivers looking for the next level of driver assistance can opt for available Ford BlueCruise® 1.5 — a hands-free highway driving feature that lets the Explorer handle acceleration, braking, and steering on pre-mapped highways while the driver keeps their eyes on the road. BlueCruise is available on the ST-Line, ST, and Platinum™ trims and now includes an Automatic Lane Change feature new for 2026. Higher trims also offer an available 360-degree surround-view camera system with washer function for added parking and maneuvering confidence
Find Your 2026 Ford Explorer at Sunset Ford of Sumner
Visit Sunset Ford of Sumner in Sumner, WA, to get behind the wheel of the 2026 Ford Explorer. Our team is ready to walk you through every trim level — from the versatile Active to the performance-focused ST — and help you find the Explorer that fits your family’s needs and budget.
