2026 Ford Explorer in Benton KY
2026 Ford Explorer Price, Trims, Interior, Towing & Offers in Benton, KY
Shop the 2026 Explorer at Benton Ford Near Paducah, Murray, Mayfield & Kentucky Lake
The 2026 Ford Explorer is built for families, commuters, weekend travelers and adventure seekers who want one SUV that can handle school drop-off, Paducah errands, Kentucky Lake trips, towing duty and long highway drives. Whether you are searching for a 2026 Explorer near Paducah, comparing the Ford Explorer interior, looking for a three-row SUV that feels like the best mom car for your family, or exploring a more capable alternative to a Ford small SUV, Benton Ford in Benton, KY is ready to help.
This guide breaks down 2026 Explorer employee pricing examples, featured offer examples, trims, engines, towing, cargo space, family features, Ford Digital Experience technology, BlueCruise, Ford Rewards, FordPass Rewards, Ford maintenance schedule support and common Explorer FAQs. Benton Ford proudly serves Benton, Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Cadiz, Draffenville, Kuttawa, Kentucky Lake, Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois and nearby Northern Tennessee SUV shoppers.
5,000 lbs
Max towing capacity
Max towing capacity
385 hp
Max available horsepower
Max available horsepower
85.8 cu ft
Max cargo volume on select models
Max cargo volume on select models
6 or 7
Available seating capacity
Available seating capacity
2026 Ford Explorer Offers & Employee Pricing Examples
Ford listed Employee Pricing for All examples and Ford Credit offer examples for the 2026 Explorer lineup. Offer availability can vary by ZIP code, residency, credit approval, inventory, trim, taxes, title, license and program timing, so Benton Ford can help you verify the current Benton, KY and Paducah-area Explorer price before you visit.
ST-Line 4WD Lease Example
$399/mo. for 36 months
2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line 4WD
$5,039 cash due at signing
Ford Credit APR Example
4.9% APR for 60 months
Available Ford Credit financing example on select 2026 Explorer models
Active 4WD Lease Example
$394/mo. for 36 months
2026 Ford Explorer Active 4WD with Comfort Package
$4,922 cash due at signing
Offer examples are for research and may be based on Ford national program information as of May 28, 2026. Security deposit waived where applicable. Taxes, title, license, documentation fees, equipment, residency restrictions, credit approval, mileage limits, incentives and availability may vary. Contact Benton Ford for current 2026 Explorer offers in Benton, KY.
Why the 2026 Ford Explorer Makes Sense for Western Kentucky Families
The 2026 Explorer is the SUV you choose when you need more than a compact crossover. It is still easy to live with every day, but it adds three-row flexibility, confident available Intelligent 4WD, serious towing ability and the kind of cabin technology families want for road trips, ball games, school pickups and lake weekends.
- Available seating for up to seven with flexible second-row options
- Standard Class III Trailer Tow Package with up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity
- Available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving with Automatic Lane Change
- Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch center display and wireless smartphone compatibility
2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels & Employee Pricing Examples
From the practical Explorer Active 100A to the trail-focused Explorer Tremor and performance-minded Explorer ST, the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup gives Benton and Paducah drivers a wide range of personalities. Benton Ford can help you compare comfort, power, technology, 4WD availability, interior colors and current Explorer inventory side by side.
| 2026 Explorer Trim | Employee Pricing Example | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Active 100A | Starting at $35,676 | Three-row value, 2.3L EcoBoost, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ and standard towing capability |
| Active | Starting at $37,622 | Daily family comfort with heated front seats, available Intelligent 4WD and power liftgate |
| ST-Line | Starting at $41,815 | Sporty style, 360-Degree Camera, red stitching and B&O audio without moving to the ST powertrain |
| Tremor | Starting at $45,310 | Off-road confidence with Intelligent 4WD, increased ride height, all-terrain tires and Torsen rear axle |
| Platinum | Starting at $47,145 | Premium comfort with available leather seating, multicontour massaging seats, ambient lighting and BlueCruise |
| ST | Starting at $50,761 | High-performance Explorer with 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes |
Pricing examples are not a final Benton Ford sale price. Actual price, incentives, eligibility, taxes, title, license, documentation fee, accessories, dealer-installed equipment and availability may vary.
What Do You Get With the 2026 Explorer Active 100A?
The 2026 Explorer Active 100A is the smart starting point for shoppers who want three rows, modern technology and standard towing hardware without overbuying. It uses the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine, offers rear-wheel drive with available Intelligent 4WD and includes family-friendly essentials for life around Benton, Paducah and Kentucky Lake.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine with 10-speed automatic transmission
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ including Adaptive Cruise Control
- Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control
- 13.2-inch center display with Ford Digital Experience
Is the 2026 Explorer Active the Everyday Family Sweet Spot?
The 2026 Explorer Active adds comfort and convenience features families appreciate every day. Heated front-row seats, a heated steering wheel, power liftgate, active noise cancellation and an available Comfort Package help make this Explorer a strong answer for shoppers comparing family SUVs near Paducah.
- Heated front-row seats and available heated steering wheel
- Power liftgate for easier loading after groceries, sports and travel
- Available seating for up to seven passengers
- Available 20-inch wheel designs and upgraded exterior details
Why Choose the 2026 Explorer ST-Line?
The 2026 Explorer ST-Line is for drivers who want a sportier look and a more premium feel without stepping all the way into the Explorer ST. Black exterior accents, 20-inch Ebony-painted machined aluminum wheels, red interior stitching, a 360-Degree Camera and B&O audio give ST-Line a sharp, confident personality.
- Unique durable cloth-trimmed seats with red stitching
- B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 10 speakers including subwoofer
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with 360-Degree Camera
- Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving
What Makes the 2026 Explorer Tremor Different?
The new 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor gives the Explorer lineup a tougher trail personality. With Intelligent 4WD, increased ride height, off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, all-terrain tires, accent-color tow hooks and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, Tremor is designed for drivers who see every detour as part of the adventure.
- Standard Intelligent 4WD and 8.7-inch minimum running ground clearance
- Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 for up to 385 horsepower
- Off-road auxiliary lights, Tremor badging and orange design accents
- PowerFold third-row seats available for easier cargo flexibility
Why Upgrade to the 2026 Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Explorer Platinum is the comfort-focused choice for drivers who want a refined Ford Explorer interior. Available leather seating surfaces, available multicontour massaging front seats, available ambient lighting, a premium B&O audio system and BlueCruise-equipped technology give Platinum a quiet, upscale feel for road trips and daily driving.
- Heated, ventilated and massaging front-row seats with available leather inserts
- B&O Sound System with 14 speakers including subwoofer
- BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped with included plan period
- Available panoramic fixed-glass roof with power sunshade
How Sporty Is the 2026 Explorer ST?
The 2026 Explorer ST is the performance model of the family. Its 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivers up to 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, quad-tipped exhaust and available Intelligent 4WD give ST a confident, athletic feel.
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine standard on ST
- 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels
- Heated and ventilated front-row seats with red accent stitching
- BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped on ST
2026 Ford Explorer Engines, Horsepower, Torque & Towing
The 2026 Explorer offers two EcoBoost engine choices, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 is standard on Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor and Platinum. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is standard on ST and available on Tremor for drivers who want more power with off-road capability.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 300 hp | 310 lb-ft | 5,000 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 385 hp | 415 lb-ft | 5,000 lbs |
Horsepower and torque ratings are achieved using premium fuel. Maximum towing requires proper equipment and varies by configuration, cargo, accessories and number of passengers. See Benton Ford for help selecting the right 2026 Explorer configuration.
How Much Can the 2026 Ford Explorer Tow?
Every 2026 Explorer includes a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, helping the SUV tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. That makes Explorer a smart choice for many small campers, utility trailers, personal watercraft, dirt bikes, ATVs and weekend gear around Kentucky Lake.
- Class III hitch receiver included
- Seven-wire harness plus four-pin and seven-pin connectors
- Trailer Sway Control works with AdvanceTrac with RSC
- BLIS with Trailer Coverage helps watch for vehicles beside your trailer
What Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Interior Like?
The Ford Explorer interior is designed to make family life easier. Explorer offers available seating for up to seven, 10 beverage holders, multiple USB ports, three 12V power outlets, available heated second-row seats, available PowerFold third-row seats and up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo room on select models. It is practical enough for kids and gear, yet refined enough for long drives.
- 16.3 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row
- 46.0 cu ft of cargo space behind the second row
- Up to 85.8 cu ft of maximum cargo space on select models
- Available multicontour massaging front seats and ambient lighting
What Technology Comes With the 2026 Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer brings your digital life into the SUV with the Ford Digital Experience, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 13.2-inch center display, available Google Maps, available Google Assistant, available apps through Google Play and available Ford Connectivity Package features. Select models also offer BlueCruise hands-free highway driving for compatible highways.
- Ford Digital Experience with customizable screens
- Available Ford Connectivity Package with one-year included plan
- Available 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability for up to 10 devices
- Available streaming, gaming and video apps while parked
How Does Explorer Help You Drive With Confidence?
Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies are designed to help you feel more aware and more confident behind the wheel. Depending on trim, Explorer can include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, 360-Degree Camera and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering
- Lane-Keeping System with driver alert reminders
- BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert and available Trailer Coverage
- Available BlueCruise Automatic Lane Change on equipped models
What Colors Are Available for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer color palette varies by trim and availability. Ask Benton Ford to confirm current inventory by window sticker, but common 2026 Explorer exterior colors include Agate Black Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Iconic Silver Metallic, Marsh Gray, Oxford White, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Space White Metallic, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat and Vapor Blue Metallic.
- Sporty exterior accents on ST-Line and ST
- Orange Tremor accents for the off-road-focused model
- Available panoramic fixed-glass roof on most models
- Wheel options from 18-inch to 21-inch designs
2026 Ford Explorer Interior Colors & Seating Materials
Explorer interior choices vary by trim, package and availability. Active models focus on durable family-friendly materials, ST-Line adds sporty red stitching, Tremor brings unique trail-inspired details, Platinum emphasizes premium comfort and ST adds performance styling. Benton Ford can confirm exact interior color, seating material and package details on any Explorer in stock.
| Trim | Interior Personality | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Active 100A / Active | Dark Space Gray themes with cloth or available ActiveX seating material | Durable, family-friendly and easy to live with |
| ST-Line | Onyx-style sporty cabin with red accent stitching | Sport appearance without the ST engine requirement |
| Tremor | Onyx cabin with Miko suede-style inserts and Tremor stitching details | Trail-ready look with front- and second-row floor liners |
| Platinum | Mojave Dusk or Salt Crystal Gray premium-style interior choices | Available leather, ambient lighting and massaging front seats |
| ST | Onyx performance theme with red stitching and ST branding | Performance look, ventilated front seats and premium tech |
Ford Explorer Service, Ford Maintenance Schedule & Rewards in Benton, KY
Benton Ford does more than help you find the right new Explorer. Our Ford Service team can help with oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, batteries, filters, recalls, diagnostics and the correct Ford maintenance schedule for your exact Explorer. Maintenance timing can vary by engine, mileage, driving conditions and VIN, so Benton Ford Service can help you verify what your SUV needs and when.
If your current Ford displays a Service AdvanceTrac warning, schedule a diagnostic visit with Benton Ford Service. AdvanceTrac-related warnings can involve traction, stability or braking system inputs, and the right next step is a Ford-trained diagnosis instead of guessing.
Explorer owners can also ask Benton Ford about Ford Rewards and FordPass Rewards. Eligible owners may be able to earn and redeem Points toward Ford Service, maintenance, accessories, connected services and more. Use the Ford App to explore remote features, ownership tools and reward options available for your vehicle.
Shop the 2026 Ford Explorer at Benton Ford in Benton, KY
Benton Ford is located at 99 North Main Street in Benton, Kentucky 42025. We proudly serve drivers from Benton, Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Cadiz, Draffenville, Kuttawa, Kentucky Lake, Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois and nearby Northern Tennessee. Our team can help you compare 2026 Explorer trims, current inventory, Ford Credit offers, lease options, trade values, used SUVs and new Ford SUV choices.
Shopping outside Western Kentucky? Drivers from Nashville, Clarksville, Paris TN and Southern Illinois also look to Benton Ford for new Ford SUVs, used SUVs, Ford service and straightforward support. Whether you want a 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum or ST, Benton Ford is ready to help.
Ford Owner Benefits for 2026 Explorer Drivers
Explorer ownership can include more than a great SUV. Ask Benton Ford about Ford App remote features, Ford Pickup & Delivery availability, Mobile Service options, Ford Rewards, FordPass Rewards, Roadside Assistance, Ford Protect plans, accessories and ongoing Ford service support in Benton, KY.
Ford App
Remote features, ownership tools and connected services on eligible vehicles
Remote features, ownership tools and connected services on eligible vehicles
Ford Rewards
Earn and redeem Points toward service, parts, accessories and more
Earn and redeem Points toward service, parts, accessories and more
Benton Ford Service
Maintenance, diagnostics, tires, brakes and Ford-trained support
Maintenance, diagnostics, tires, brakes and Ford-trained support
Come Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer at Benton Ford!
Ready to compare the 2026 Explorer Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum or ST? Benton Ford can help you review availability, get an internet price, compare current Ford offers, value your trade and set up a test drive. Fill out the form below and our Benton Ford team will help you find the Explorer that fits your family, commute, towing plans and weekend adventures.
2026 Ford Explorer FAQ
Where can I buy a 2026 Ford Explorer near Paducah, KY?
You can shop the 2026 Ford Explorer at Benton Ford in Benton, Kentucky. Benton Ford serves Benton, Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Cadiz, Draffenville, Kuttawa, Kentucky Lake, Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois and nearby Northern Tennessee SUV shoppers.
How much is the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer price depends on trim, drivetrain, engine, packages, incentives and availability. Ford employee pricing examples listed Explorer Active 100A starting at $35,676, Active at $37,622, ST-Line at $41,815, Tremor at $45,310, Platinum at $47,145 and ST at $50,761. Contact Benton Ford for current pricing in Benton, KY.
What trims are available for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer lineup includes six models: Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum and ST. Availability varies by drivetrain, engine, package, color and current inventory.
What is new for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The biggest 2026 Explorer update is the addition of the off-road-focused Tremor model. Explorer also highlights available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving with Automatic Lane Change, available panoramic fixed-glass roof, Ford Digital Experience technology and a lineup built around family comfort, towing and adventure.
What is the towing capacity for the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. All Explorer models include the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package with a Class III hitch receiver, seven-wire harness and four-pin/seven-pin trailer connectors.
What engines are available in the 2026 Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer offers a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, plus a 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 with 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. The 2.3L is standard on most trims, while the 3.0L is standard on ST and available on Tremor.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have AWD or 4WD?
Yes. The 2026 Explorer offers Intelligent 4WD on many models. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many 2.3L EcoBoost trims, Intelligent 4WD is available, and Explorer Tremor comes standard with Intelligent 4WD.
How many people does the 2026 Ford Explorer seat?
The 2026 Ford Explorer seats six or seven people depending on model and seating configuration. Second-row captain's chairs are standard on many trims, while a second-row bench seat is standard on ST-Line and available on select models.
How much cargo space does the 2026 Ford Explorer have?
The 2026 Explorer offers 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46.0 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 85.8 cubic feet behind the first row on select trims. Maximum cargo volume is 85.3 cubic feet on ST, Platinum and Tremor.
What are the dimensions of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
The 2026 Explorer has a 119.1-inch wheelbase, 198.7-inch length, 78.9-inch width without mirrors and 89.3-inch width with mirrors. Height varies by trim: 69.6 inches on Active 100A, Active and ST-Line; 69.8 inches on ST; 70.2 inches on Platinum; and 70.8 inches on Tremor.
Is the 2026 Explorer Tremor good for off-road driving?
The 2026 Explorer Tremor is the most trail-focused Explorer model. It includes Intelligent 4WD, increased ride height, off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, underbody protection, off-road auxiliary lights and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle for added traction.
Is the 2026 Explorer ST fast?
The 2026 Explorer ST is the performance model, powered by a 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 with 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It also adds sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted brake calipers and quad-tipped exhaust.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have BlueCruise?
Yes, BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is equipped or available on select 2026 Explorer models. Platinum and ST are key trims to ask about, while ST-Line and Tremor may offer BlueCruise availability depending on configuration. BlueCruise is a driver-assist feature and requires the driver to remain attentive and ready to take control.
Does the 2026 Ford Explorer have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The 2026 Explorer offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility with the Ford Digital Experience, plus a 13.2-inch center display and available connected features depending on trim and plan status.
Is the 2026 Ford Explorer a good best mom car or family SUV?
Yes, Explorer is a strong family SUV for shoppers searching best mom car, best dad car or best three-row SUV near Paducah. It offers three rows, available seating for up to seven, flexible cargo space, available PowerFold third-row seats, available heated seats, driver-assist features and easy-to-use technology.
Is Explorer a Ford small SUV?
No. Explorer is a midsize three-row Ford SUV. If you searched Ford small SUV, you may also want to compare Escape or Bronco Sport. Explorer is better for shoppers who want extra passenger space, more cargo room and a higher towing rating than many smaller SUVs.
Benton Ford Explorer Shopping, Service & Ownership FAQ
Why shop Benton Ford for a 2026 Explorer near Paducah?
Benton Ford gives Western Kentucky shoppers a local, easy-to-reach Ford dealership for new Explorer inventory, Ford Credit options, trade values, used SUVs, service and parts. We are close to Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Cadiz, Draffenville, Kuttawa and Kentucky Lake.
Can Benton Ford help me compare Explorer trims in person?
Yes. Benton Ford can help you compare Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum and ST features, including seating materials, Ford Explorer interior choices, 4WD availability, towing equipment, BlueCruise, cargo space and payment options.
Can I use Ford Rewards or FordPass Rewards at Benton Ford?
Eligible owners may be able to earn and redeem Ford Rewards Points toward Ford Service, parts, accessories, eligible subscriptions and more. FordPass Rewards is still a common search term, and Benton Ford can help you understand how Ford Rewards works with Explorer maintenance and accessories.
Where do I find the Ford maintenance schedule for my Explorer?
The best Ford maintenance schedule is the one tied to your exact VIN, mileage and driving conditions. Benton Ford Service can help confirm oil change intervals, tire rotations, brake inspections, fluid checks, filters and other recommended Explorer maintenance.
What should I do if my Ford says Service AdvanceTrac?
If your Ford displays a Service AdvanceTrac message, schedule service with Benton Ford. Because AdvanceTrac is connected to stability and traction support, the safest next step is to have Ford-trained technicians diagnose the warning and recommend the correct repair.
Does Benton Ford offer service after I buy my Explorer?
Yes. Benton Ford Service supports Explorer owners with routine maintenance, inspections, diagnostics, tires, brakes, batteries, parts, accessories and help understanding Ford App, Ford Rewards and connected vehicle features.
Can I trade in my current SUV for a 2026 Ford Explorer?
Yes. Benton Ford can help you value your trade, review payoff information, estimate payments and apply your trade value toward a new 2026 Explorer or another Ford SUV.
Can I start the Explorer buying process online?
Yes. You can browse inventory, request an internet price, estimate payments, value your trade and contact Benton Ford online. Our team can help you handle part of the process online and finish in-store when you are ready.
Vehicle images, features, offers, pricing, employee pricing examples, lease examples, APR examples, towing ratings, cargo ratings, technology, colors, interior materials and availability may vary by trim, equipment, package, market, incentives and current inventory. Always confirm all details with Benton Ford before purchasing or leasing. Properly configure your SUV and follow the Owner's Manual for towing, cargo loading, maintenance and safety information. Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver's attention, judgment or responsibility to control the vehicle.
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)