2027 Ford Explorer Trim Levels Explained near Carbondale, IL

The 2027 Ford Explorer® brings confident power, three-row versatility, and upscale technology together in a way that feels natural for everyday driving and long-distance family travel. For shoppers comparing the 2027 Ford Explorer near Carbondale, IL, this SUV stands out with a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine on most trims, an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 on select models, available Intelligent 4WD, and a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. Inside, the Explorer® offers seating for six or seven, up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space on Active and ST-Line models, and modern conveniences through the Ford Digital Experience. Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist technology supports daily confidence, while available BlueCruise adds hands-free highway driving capability on compatible roads. At Benton Ford, we appreciate how the lineup gives shoppers clear choices: practical, sporty, trail-ready, luxurious, or performance-focused.

2027 Ford Explorer Trim Comparison

Trim Level	Focus	Engine	Chassis	Comfort
Explorer® Active	Everyday family utility	2.3L EcoBoost® I-4	RWD or 4WD	Heated front seats
Explorer® ST-Line	Sport style and tech	2.3L EcoBoost® I-4	Street-focused tuning	Red-stitched seating
Explorer® Tremor®	Trail-ready capability	Available 3.0L V6	Off-road suspension	PowerFold® third row
Explorer® Platinum™	Premium comfort and tech	Available 3.0L V6	Refined ride character	Massaging front seats
Explorer® ST	Performance SUV driving	3.0L EcoBoost® V6	Sport-tuned suspension	ST performance cabin

2027 Ford Explorer Trim Options

Explorer® Active

2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 · Adaptive Cruise Control · Heated front-row seats · Ford Security Package

The Explorer® Active is the smart starting point for drivers who want a well-equipped three-row SUV without overcomplicating the decision. Its 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine delivers 300 hp, giving the Active enough strength for daily commuting, school routes, weekend errands, and properly equipped towing up to 5,000 lbs. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, while available Intelligent 4WD gives added confidence for gravel lanes, wet pavement, and rural roads around Southern Illinois. Inside, the Active keeps comfort practical with heated front-row seats, standard second-row captain’s chairs, and available seven-passenger seating through an optional second-row bench. Cargo flexibility is a major advantage, with 16.3 cu ft behind the third row and up to 85.8 cu ft when the rear seats are folded. Ford Co-Pilot360® technology, including Adaptive Cruise Control, helps reduce stress on longer drives, while the Ford Security Package adds peace of mind. For many families, Active feels complete from the first drive.

Explorer® ST-Line

360-degree camera · Red stitching · B&O® 10-speaker system

The Explorer® ST-Line builds on the Active with a more expressive personality, making it a strong match for shoppers who want sport-inspired design without stepping all the way into the ST performance model. It keeps the efficient and responsive 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, but adds details that change the feel of the cabin and daily driving experience. The unique cloth-trimmed front- and second-row seats with red stitching give the interior a sharper look, while the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers, including subwoofer, adds clarity for music, podcasts, and hands-free calls. The 360-degree camera is especially useful in busy parking areas, tight garage entries, and crowded restaurant lots. Like Active, ST-Line offers up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo capacity, so its style does not reduce core practicality. It is a great fit for drivers who want an SUV that feels modern, connected, and athletic, while still serving as a comfortable family vehicle.

Explorer® Tremor®

Torsen® limited-slip rear axle · Off-road-tuned suspension · Underbody protection

The Explorer® Tremor® is the trim for drivers who want Explorer practicality with added capability beyond the pavement. Its model-exclusive Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates help it handle rutted paths, gravel access roads, boat ramps, and rougher approaches with more confidence. The 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine is standard, while the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 brings stronger output for shoppers who want extra performance. Tremor® also offers a maximum cargo capacity of 85.3 cu ft and standard second-row captain’s chairs, making it useful for families, outdoor gear, and road-trip supplies. PowerFold® third-row seats are available, adding convenience when switching between people and cargo. For drivers who spend time around lakes, trailheads, construction sites, or rural property outside Carbondale, Tremor® makes a compelling case. It keeps the Explorer® comfortable and connected, yet adds meaningful hardware that supports adventurous travel.

Explorer® Platinum™

BlueCruise · Massaging front-row seats · Vista Roof®

The Explorer® Platinum™ focuses on premium comfort, advanced technology, and a quieter sense of refinement. It is ideal for shoppers who spend meaningful time behind the wheel and want a cabin that feels elevated every day, not just on special trips. Heated, ventilated, massaging front-row seats with leather inserts help make longer drives more relaxing, while BlueCruise hands-free highway driving equipped with an included plan brings advanced convenience on compatible highways. The available panoramic Vista Roof® with power shade opens the cabin visually, and Platinum™ can also be upgraded with the available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine for stronger acceleration. Seating remains flexible with standard second-row captain’s chairs and an available second-row bench for seven-passenger capacity. Cargo space reaches up to 85.3 cu ft, keeping utility intact despite the luxurious focus. Platinum™ feels especially well suited for professionals, growing families, and frequent travelers who want technology, comfort, and upscale materials in a midsize SUV that remains practical.

Explorer® ST

3.0L EcoBoost® V6 · Sport-tuned suspension · Performance brakes · Red-painted calipers

The Explorer® ST is the most performance-focused model in the lineup, pairing three-row usefulness with the confident response of a standard twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine. With up to 385 hp in the information provided, the ST has the power to make merging, passing, and open-road driving feel more immediate. Its sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21" wheels give it a more athletic character than the rest of the Explorer® range. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is equipped, adding high-end driver-assist convenience to the ST’s performance identity. Inside, it remains a real family SUV with standard second-row captain’s chairs, standard PowerFold® third-row seats, and up to 85.3 cu ft of cargo capacity. For shoppers drawn to bolder design, the available Sinister Package adds 21" Gloss Black-painted wheels, unique accent lighting, and ST badges outlined in black. ST is the choice for drivers who want capability, presence, and excitement in one SUV.

Which 2027 Ford Explorer Trim is Best for Carbondale Drivers?

If you are researching the 2027 Ford Explorer near Carbondale, IL, the best trim depends on how your SUV will be used around campus traffic near Southern Illinois University, family schedules across Jackson County, shopping trips along Route 13, and weekend drives toward Little Grassy Lake or Giant City State Park. Active is the most straightforward choice for value-minded practicality, while ST-Line adds a sportier look and richer audio experience. Tremor® makes sense for drivers who leave pavement more often or want extra confidence on rural roads. Platinum™ is the comfort leader, especially for longer highway travel, and ST is the clear pick for performance-minded SUV shoppers. At Benton Ford, our team can help compare seating, cargo needs, engine options, and available Intelligent 4WD so the right Explorer® feels obvious. For most Carbondale-area families, ST-Line offers an appealing balance of technology, style, and everyday usability.

Choose Explorer® Active for practical three-row space, heated front-row seats, and strong standard safety technology.
Choose Explorer® ST-Line for sport-inspired design, the 360-degree camera, and B&O® audio.
Choose Explorer® Tremor® for gravel roads, outdoor recreation, and added off-road hardware.
Choose Explorer® Platinum™ for premium seating, BlueCruise, and a more luxurious cabin.
Choose Explorer® ST for the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, sport-tuned suspension, and the boldest driving personality.

*Images may not show trim level described

May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

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