Key Features of the 2027 Ford Explorer

2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 and Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 Power

Performance is one of the biggest reasons to consider the 2027 Ford Explorer®. The 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology is standard on Active, ST-Line, Tremor®, and Platinum™ models, giving drivers a strong foundation for commuting, errands, school schedules, and longer highway drives. Ford rates this engine at 300 horsepower, which gives the Explorer® a confident, responsive feel without making the SUV feel oversized or sluggish. For shoppers who want more excitement, the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine brings a twin-turbo setup with up to 385 horsepower on applicable models. It is standard on Explorer® ST and available on Tremor® and Platinum™. That means buyers can match power to purpose: sporty performance in ST, upscale strength in Platinum™, or rugged confidence in Tremor®. The Explorer® also offers available 4WD, and maximum towing capacity reaches 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, making this SUV practical for small trailers, recreational gear, and family adventure equipment.

Ford BlueCruise

Available Ford BlueCruise is one of the most compelling technology features in the 2027 Ford Explorer®. This hands-free highway driving assistance feature can help control steering, braking, and acceleration while keeping the vehicle centered in its lane on compatible highways, as the driver keeps eyes on the road ahead. That combination can make longer highway stretches feel more relaxed, especially for drivers who frequently travel between York County, Charlotte-area destinations, and communities across the Carolinas. BlueCruise is equipped on Explorer® ST and Platinum™ models, with Platinum™ including a 1-year plus 90-day plan according to Ford content. The system is designed to support the driver, not replace attention, and it works alongside the broader Ford Co-Pilot360® technology suite. For shoppers comparing modern three-row SUVs, BlueCruise gives the Explorer® a premium technology advantage that is easy to appreciate during a test drive. It is especially valuable for drivers who want innovation that feels practical in everyday use.

Ford Digital Experience

The Ford Digital Experience gives the 2027 Explorer® a cabin that feels connected, intuitive, and ready for modern driving. Ford describes the system as bringing elements of your digital life into the vehicle with familiar functionality and curated apps designed to enhance the drive. That matters because today’s SUV shoppers often expect more than a basic screen. They want navigation support, media access, phone integration, and an interface that feels natural from the first day of ownership. The Explorer® cabin places technology within easy reach, so drivers can focus on the road while passengers enjoy a more engaging environment. The available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers, including subwoofer, adds another layer of refinement on models such as ST-Line and through available packages. This technology-focused interior helps the Explorer® feel upscale without losing its practical family-SUV personality. It is built for people who use their vehicle as a mobile command center.

Seating for Six or Seven and Up to 85.8 cu ft of Cargo Space

Interior flexibility is a core strength of the 2027 Ford Explorer®. All models include three-row seating, with second-row captain’s chairs standard across the lineup. For shoppers who need room for one more passenger, a second-row bench seat is available on all models except Tremor®, increasing capacity to seven people. This gives families meaningful flexibility depending on whether easy third-row access or maximum seating capacity is the priority. Cargo space is equally useful. Active and ST-Line models offer up to 85.8 cu ft of maximum cargo capacity, while Tremor®, Platinum™, and ST models offer up to 85.3 cu ft. With all seats in place, every model provides 16.3 cu ft behind the rear seats, which is helpful for grocery runs, school bags, daily equipment, or luggage. Available PowerFold® third-row seats on Tremor® and standard PowerFold® third-row seats on ST and Platinum™ make switching between passenger space and cargo room more convenient.

Tremor® Capability and ST Performance Personality

The 2027 Explorer® lineup gives shoppers clear choices beyond ordinary trim differences. Explorer® Tremor® is engineered for drivers who want more rugged confidence, with available 3.0L EcoBoost® power, a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates. It is a strong fit for drivers who may encounter gravel roads, unpaved access routes, campsites, or uneven terrain but still want a refined three-row SUV. On the other end of the personality spectrum, Explorer® ST delivers a sport-focused experience with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped. The available new ST Sinister Package adds a darker appearance with 21" Gloss Black-painted wheels, unique accent lighting, and ST badges outlined in black. Together, Tremor® and ST show how broad the Explorer® lineup really is.