Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Better Than the 2026 Honda Pilot for Families Around Mayfield, KY?

Benton Ford - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to build on a nameplate that has been trusted by SUV shoppers for decades. For drivers who want three-row versatility, strong turbocharged performance, confident towing capability, and modern in-cabin technology, the Explorer remains one of the most well-rounded choices in the midsize SUV segment. It is practical enough for daily routines, comfortable enough for longer drives, and available with enough personality to satisfy shoppers who want something more engaging than a typical family SUV. At Benton Ford, we know many SUV shoppers compare the Explorer against models like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Traverse. That is a smart approach, because today’s three-row SUV category is highly competitive. What makes the 2027 Ford Explorer stand out is its rear-wheel-drive-based architecture, strong powertrain lineup, straightforward cabin layout, available all-wheel drive, and broad range of trims. Whether your priority is value, comfort, technology, towing, or performance, the Explorer gives you several ways to build the right fit. What Is New for the 2027 Ford Explorer? For 2027, the Ford Explorer is expected to stay close to its recently refreshed formula, which is good news for shoppers who already liked its blend of capability and convenience. The biggest addition is the available Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. This package brings a more dramatic, blacked-out look with dark exterior accents, black wheels, special badging, and amber running lights. It gives the performance-focused ST trim an even bolder street presence without changing the everyday usability that makes the Explorer so appealing. The Explorer ST Experience also returns for qualifying new Explorer ST owners. This complimentary professional driving school is designed to help owners learn more about the ST model’s performance potential in a controlled environment. For drivers who choose the ST because of its power and sportier character, that kind of ownership perk adds a meaningful layer of excitement. Powertrain Choices: Turbocharged Confidence for Different Driving Styles The 2027 Ford Explorer offers two main engine choices, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Most trims use a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That engine is a strong fit for everyday driving because it delivers responsive acceleration without requiring buyers to move into the performance model. For many families, commuters, and weekend travelers, the standard turbo-four provides the right balance of power and efficiency. For those who want more muscle, the available turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 raises output to as much as 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, depending on configuration and emissions certification. This engine is standard on the Explorer ST and available on select trims, giving the SUV a more energetic feel. The ST in particular is known for being quick for a three-row SUV, and its sharper personality helps it stand apart from many competitors that focus more heavily on comfort than driver engagement. Standard turbocharged engine: The 2.3-liter four-cylinder offers 300 horsepower and a confident feel for daily driving. Available V-6 performance: The 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 gives the Explorer stronger acceleration and a sportier character. Transmission: A 10-speed automatic helps balance smooth shifts, highway comfort, and responsive power delivery. Drivetrain options: Rear-wheel drive is standard on many models, while available all-wheel drive adds confidence in a wider range of driving conditions. Trims and Personality: From Practical to Performance-Minded The 2027 Explorer lineup gives shoppers a wide range of personalities to consider. The Active trim is a strong starting point for anyone who wants the core Explorer experience: three-row seating, useful technology, strong standard power, and a practical cabin. The ST-Line is a great choice for shoppers who like a sportier appearance but do not necessarily need the full performance hardware of the ST. It brings a more athletic look while keeping the efficient and capable turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Tremor trim adds a more rugged angle to the Explorer lineup. It is designed for shoppers who want extra trail-ready style and capability while keeping the Explorer’s comfortable on-road manners. Platinum models focus more on premium features and added comfort, while the ST is the enthusiast choice. With its turbocharged V-6 and performance-focused tuning, the ST is the Explorer for shoppers who want their three-row SUV to feel genuinely quick. Interior Comfort and Everyday Practicality Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer focuses on usefulness, comfort, and easy-to-understand controls. The first two rows offer generous space, supportive seating, and a cabin layout designed around daily convenience. The second row typically comes with captain’s chairs, which make it easier to access the third row and give passengers a more open, comfortable seating arrangement. A second-row bench is also available for shoppers who want to increase seating capacity. The third row is standard, which is important for families, carpooling, and anyone who needs flexible passenger space. Like many midsize three-row SUVs, the Explorer’s rearmost row is best suited for children or shorter passengers, but it remains useful when extra seating is needed. Cargo flexibility is another major strength. With the rear rows folded, the Explorer opens up a large, practical cargo area for luggage, sports equipment, home improvement supplies, or road trip gear. First-row comfort: The front cabin offers a confident driving position, supportive seating, and a modern dashboard layout. Second-row versatility: Captain’s chairs are commonly offered, while an available bench can help maximize passenger capacity. Third-row utility: The standard third row adds flexibility for families and occasional extra passengers. Cargo flexibility: Folding rear seats create a broad storage area for larger items and longer trips. Technology That Feels Modern and Useful The 2027 Explorer features a large central touchscreen, a digital driver display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and access to modern connected services through compatible devices. Ford’s latest digital interface supports familiar apps and voice features, helping the cabin feel current and intuitive. When parked, select functions may allow entertainment and browsing features, which can be convenient during charging stops for devices, school pickup waiting periods, or downtime between errands. The Explorer also offers multiple USB ports and power points throughout the cabin, including access for rear passengers. Available premium audio systems further improve the experience for drivers who care about sound quality. The result is a cabin that keeps passengers connected without making the technology feel overly complicated. Safety and Driver Assistance Ford equips the Explorer with a strong set of driver-assist features, making it a reassuring choice for families and frequent drivers. Standard and available systems can include automated emergency braking, lane-keeping technology, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, and available hands-free highway driving capability on compatible mapped roads. These features do not replace attentive driving, but can help reduce stress and add confidence in busy traffic, tight parking areas, and longer highway stretches. For shoppers researching safety ratings, it is always a good idea to review the latest results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety when current model-year data is available. The Explorer has performed well in recent evaluations, and the 2027 model is expected to continue offering a safety-focused package. Towing, Fuel Economy, and Real-World Use When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and models include useful towing hardware such as a hitch, trailer wiring, and trailer sway control. That capability makes the Explorer a good fit for small campers, utility trailers, personal watercraft, and other weekend equipment. It is one of the reasons the Explorer appeals to shoppers who need more than basic family transportation. Fuel economy varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim. The turbocharged four-cylinder models are the most efficient choices, while the V-6 trades some efficiency for stronger acceleration. Rear-wheel-drive models generally provide the best fuel economy estimates, while all-wheel drive adds capability for drivers who value extra traction. For many buyers, the best approach is to choose the powertrain based on how the vehicle will be used most often. If most driving involves commuting, school routes, and highway travel, the turbo-four makes a lot of sense. If stronger acceleration and performance are priorities, the V-6 is a compelling upgrade. Who Should Consider the 2027 Ford Explorer? The 2027 Ford Explorer is a strong match for shoppers who want a three-row SUV with more driving character than many competitors. It is practical, but not bland. It is comfortable, but still capable. It is family-friendly, but available in trims that add sportier styling, rugged design cues, or real performance. That flexibility is one of the Explorer’s biggest advantages. Growing families: Three rows, easy cargo flexibility, and modern safety features support busy daily routines. Commuters who need space: The Explorer offers SUV practicality without feeling oversized from behind the wheel. Drivers who tow occasionally: Properly equipped models can handle up to 5,000 pounds. Performance-minded shoppers: The Explorer ST delivers serious power for a midsize three-row SUV. Tech-focused buyers: Large screens, wireless smartphone integration, and available advanced driver assistance make the cabin feel current. If you are comparing trims, think carefully about priorities. The Active trim is a smart entry point with strong standard capability. The ST-Line adds sporty design at a more approachable level than the ST. The Tremor brings a more adventurous look and added capability. The Platinum leans into comfort and premium features. The ST is the choice for drivers who want the most excitement. Our team is serving Paducah, Hopkinsville, and Mayfield, and we can help you compare these options based on passenger needs, towing plans, technology preferences, and driving style. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a good family SUV? Yes. The 2027 Explorer is a strong family SUV thanks to its standard three-row layout, comfortable first and second rows, flexible cargo space, useful technology, and broad driver-assistance feature availability. How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow? When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also includes helpful towing features such as trailer sway control and the necessary towing hardware on many configurations. Which 2027 Ford Explorer engine is best? The standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder is the best fit for many shoppers because it delivers strong power and better efficiency. The available turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 is ideal for drivers who want stronger acceleration and a sportier feel. Does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer all-wheel drive? Yes. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many Explorer models, and all-wheel drive is available for shoppers who want added traction and confidence. What is the 2027 Ford Explorer Sinister package? The Sinister package is an available appearance package for the Explorer ST. It adds black exterior details, black wheels, special badging, and amber running lights for a darker, more aggressive look. Is the 2027 Ford Explorer worth considering against other three-row SUVs? Absolutely. The Explorer stands out with strong turbocharged engines, available all-wheel drive, useful towing capability, modern technology, and a sportier feel than many rivals in the midsize three-row SUV class. *Image may not be actual model Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

Benton Ford - Why the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor® Fits Cape Girardeau, MO Drivers For shoppers around Cape Girardeau, MO, the 2026 Ford Explorer® Tremor® brings something especially appealing to the three-row SUV conversation: real family utility with added trail-minded confidence. Many SUV buyers want more than a comfortable cabin and a useful cargo area. A vehicle also needs to feel ready for gravel drives, hilly backroads, boat ramps, road trips, and the occasional detour away from the ordinary route. The Explorer® Tremor® answers that need with hardware and tuning that give it a more adventurous personality than a typical midsize SUV. At Benton Ford, we know many shoppers want an SUV that can serve as the everyday family vehicle without feeling limited when the pavement ends. The Explorer® Tremor® stands out because it is not just an appearance package. Ford highlights the model with an available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates. For drivers who spend time along rural routes outside Cape Girardeau or travel toward parks, lakes, farms, job sites, and outdoor destinations, those features help create a more capable and confidence-inspiring Explorer®. What Makes the Explorer® Tremor® Different? The 2026 Ford Explorer® Tremor® is designed for drivers who want the space and comfort of a three-row SUV with additional capability for more demanding routes. The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle is a standout feature because traction can matter on uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or low-grip conditions. Instead of feeling like an SUV built only for smooth city streets, the Tremor® adds the kind of mechanical confidence that makes it easier to take the scenic route with purpose. The off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height also plays a key role. Cape Girardeau-area drivers often encounter a mix of highway driving, rolling terrain, rural connectors, and access roads near outdoor recreation areas. A little extra clearance and suspension tuning can help the Explorer® Tremor® feel more prepared for changing surfaces. Underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates adds another layer of confidence for shoppers who want to travel beyond the usual daily commute without stepping into a larger body-on-frame SUV. Available power: The available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine gives the Tremor® a stronger performance personality. Traction support: The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle helps improve stability when grip varies. Suspension tuning: Off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height supports more confident travel on uneven routes. Added protection: Front and rear deflector plates help protect key underbody areas during more rugged driving. Family flexibility: Available seating for up to seven keeps the Explorer® practical for busy households. Capability Without Giving Up Everyday Comfort One of the best reasons to consider the Explorer® Tremor® is that it still behaves like a smart daily SUV. Not every shopper wants a vehicle that feels overly specialized. The Tremor® keeps the three-row practicality, cargo flexibility, and technology focus that make the Explorer® lineup so appealing. That means it can carry family members during the week, handle errands around town, and still be ready when the route includes gravel, hills, or outdoor gear. Inside, the 2026 Explorer® lineup offers available seating for up to seven passengers and available cargo space of 85.8 cu ft. That matters for Cape Girardeau shoppers who need room for backpacks, coolers, tools, sports equipment, luggage, or home improvement supplies. The cabin also benefits from Ford technology designed to support a connected lifestyle, including Ford Digital Experience and available Ford Connectivity Package features such as Wi-Fi® access and device connection. The Explorer® Tremor® gives shoppers the ability to choose added capability without giving up the everyday comfort and usability expected from a modern family SUV. How It Compares With Typical Three-Row SUVs Many three-row SUVs are built primarily around school runs, grocery trips, and highway comfort. Those qualities are important, but not every competitor offers a rugged trim with meaningful off-road-focused equipment. Some rivals provide all-wheel drive but stop short of adding a limited-slip rear axle, underbody protection, and specialized suspension tuning. The Explorer® Tremor® separates itself by offering features that go beyond ordinary traction confidence. Another advantage is that the Explorer® lineup gives shoppers several personalities to compare. If comfort and premium amenities are the top priority, Platinum™ offers elevated features. If a sportier feel is preferred, ST-Line and ST bring performance-inspired design and hardware. If added adventure capability is the focus, Tremor® is the natural fit. This trim range makes the Explorer® easier to tailor to a specific lifestyle than many competitors with narrower lineups. Against comfort-first rivals: The Explorer® Tremor® adds rugged hardware that many family SUVs do not match. Against basic AWD models: Tremor® brings off-road tuned suspension and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle instead of relying only on drive system availability. Against larger SUVs: Explorer® offers meaningful capability while remaining manageable for daily driving and parking. Against one-note trims: The broader Explorer® lineup lets shoppers choose practical, sporty, premium, or adventure-ready personalities. Why It Makes Sense Around Cape Girardeau Cape Girardeau drivers often need an SUV that can shift roles quickly. A weekday may include commuting near the Mississippi River, appointments across town, school activities, or business travel along regional highways. A weekend may call for hauling gear, heading toward nearby outdoor areas, or visiting family across Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois. The Explorer® Tremor® suits that mix because it is comfortable enough for routine driving but built with extra confidence for less predictable routes. For shoppers serving Cape Girardeau, Evansville, and Carbondale, the 2026 Explorer® Tremor® also offers a strong answer to a common question: can one SUV cover family comfort, technology, towing usefulness, and adventure readiness? With the Explorer® lineup offering up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped, available Intelligent 4WD, and the Tremor® model’s rugged features, the answer is a confident yes for many local driving needs. Helpful Questions to Ask Before Choosing Tremor® Before choosing a 2026 Explorer® Tremor®, it helps to think through how often added capability will be useful. If most driving is urban and comfort-focused, another Explorer® trim may be a better fit. If your lifestyle includes unpaved access roads, outdoor travel, towing needs, or a preference for a more rugged stance, Tremor® deserves serious consideration. A test drive can also help compare steering feel, seating comfort, visibility, and everyday drivability. Driving needs: Consider how often rural roads, gravel routes, or outdoor travel are part of your routine. Passenger needs: Decide whether available seating for up to seven is important for family or group travel. Cargo needs: Think about how often folded-seat cargo space will support daily life or recreation. Technology needs: Compare connectivity, camera, audio, and driver-assist features across the Explorer® lineup. Power preference: Ask about the available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine if stronger performance is a priority. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2026 Ford Explorer® Tremor® only for off-road driving? No. The Tremor® is designed to add rugged confidence while still functioning as a comfortable three-row SUV for commuting, errands, and family travel. Its off-road-focused features make it more versatile, but it remains practical for daily use. What makes the Tremor® more capable than a regular Explorer® trim? Key Tremor® highlights include an available 3.0L EcoBoost® engine, Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates. Can the 2026 Ford Explorer® Tremor® work for families? Yes. The Explorer® lineup offers available seating for up to seven passengers and available cargo space of 85.8 cu ft, making it a strong choice for families who also want added capability. Should I compare Tremor® with ST or Platinum™? Yes. Tremor® is the adventure-focused choice, ST is the performance-focused choice, and Platinum™ emphasizes premium comfort and technology. Comparing all three can help identify the best fit. The 2026 Ford Explorer® Tremor® is a compelling choice for Cape Girardeau-area shoppers who want more confidence than a typical three-row SUV provides. It blends capability, interior flexibility, available power, and modern Ford technology into a vehicle that feels ready for real life. If your next SUV needs to handle daily responsibilities while staying ready for more adventurous routes, the Explorer® Tremor® deserves a close look. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information

Benton Ford - Is Ford BlueCruise on the 2026 Explorer a good fit for daily drives around Madisonville, KY? Hands-free highway assistance is more than a headline feature now—it can be a meaningful upgrade to comfort and confidence on busy routes. With Ford BlueCruise available on the 2026 Explorer®, many drivers are asking whether it’s the right choice for daily driving around Madisonville, KY and weekend trips across Western Kentucky. Let’s break down what BlueCruise is designed to do, where it shines, and how to decide if it belongs on your next Explorer®. What BlueCruise Is—and Why It Matters Ford BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving assistance feature that can help you accelerate, brake, and steer your Explorer® on compatible sections while you keep your eyes on the road. The key benefit is reduced fatigue on longer stints and a more relaxed experience in steady highway traffic. For drivers who spend time on I-69, the Pennyrile Parkway, or I-24 to Nashville, the assistive support can make routine travel feel smoother and more predictable. Because BlueCruise works with your Explorer’s driver-assist systems, it’s part of a broader tech suite that includes Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies. Think of it as a step beyond traditional Adaptive Cruise Control—designed for compatible highways—adding gentle steering inputs and smart speed management to help maintain your lane and flow with traffic. Where BlueCruise Fits Daily Life BlueCruise is most impactful when you regularly use compatible highways. If your commute involves stretches of open interstate or divided highways with consistent lane markings, BlueCruise can reduce the small, constant corrections that add up to driver fatigue. It’s also helpful on weekend trips to Nashville, Bowling Green, or up toward Evansville—those longer miles can pass with less strain on your shoulders and your right foot. Some drivers prefer to handle all the inputs themselves, and that’s perfectly fine—the Explorer® remains engaging to drive with or without BlueCruise. But if you appreciate technology that supports comfort on the road, it’s worth strong consideration. How It Works on the Road When you enter a compatible section, you can enable BlueCruise and the system will support acceleration, braking, and lane positioning. You still remain attentive, with your eyes on the road, but the Explorer® handles the routine adjustments. If traffic builds or conditions change, you can easily take over at any time. The transition is designed to be straightforward and intuitive. For those curious about setup, you’ll find that pairing BlueCruise with your Explorer’s other tech—like the 360-Degree Camera for low-speed maneuvers—creates a well-rounded experience. The highway becomes less tiring, and parking at the grocery store stays simple. Is It Worth It for You? The answer depends on your routes and preferences. If you primarily drive around town at lower speeds, BlueCruise will be less central to your day. However, if even a few times a week you hop on I-69 or I-24, the comfort gains can add up quickly. Pairing BlueCruise with trims that emphasize luxury and quiet—such as Platinum™—or performance-oriented confidence—like ST—can make your Explorer® feel tailor-made for Kentucky road life. Commute pattern: The more compatible highway time you spend, the more value BlueCruise provides. Driver preference: If you welcome assistive tech that eases fatigue, BlueCruise aligns well with your priorities. Trim synergy: Matching BlueCruise with features like the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® and premium seating elevates every mile. This system is about complementing, not replacing, your skills. You stay engaged and in control, with technology that handles steady-state tasks when conditions are right. Tips for Getting the Most from BlueCruise Learn the basics: Spend a few minutes in the settings menu to understand activation and alerts so it feels natural on your first highway stint. Test on familiar roads: Try BlueCruise on a known stretch of I-69 or I-24 where you can focus on how the assistance feels. Pair with planning: Use the feature for longer segments where steady speed and lane keeping deliver the biggest benefit. When used thoughtfully, BlueCruise helps make the Explorer® a calmer place to spend time, especially when traffic ebbs and flows across Western Kentucky corridors. Frequently Asked Questions: Which 2026 Explorer® trims offer BlueCruise? BlueCruise is available across the lineup and equipped on models such as ST and Platinum™. This makes it easy to pair hands-free highway assistance with either performance-focused hardware or premium comfort. Do I have to use BlueCruise on every highway drive? No. You choose when to activate it, and you can take over at any time. Many drivers save it for longer trips or times when steady traffic makes the assist most helpful. How does BlueCruise work with Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+? BlueCruise builds on the driver-assist foundation in the Explorer®, adding hands-free capability on compatible sections while you remain attentive. The suite is designed to complement your driving, not replace it. The Bottom Line for Madisonville-Area Drivers For many shoppers, BlueCruise is the final nudge that makes the 2026 Explorer® feel like a major upgrade over their current SUV. If your world includes weekly interstate miles, family road trips, or regular visits to nearby cities, the added calm and confidence are easy to appreciate. And because the Explorer® pairs BlueCruise with practical strengths—available seating for up to seven, up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space, and up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity—you’re never trading utility for technology. When you’re ready to compare trims and experience the system firsthand, Benton Ford is here to help—serving Hopkinsville, Mayfield, and Madisonville. Our product specialists can set up a route that mirrors your real driving and walk you through how BlueCruise, the 360-Degree Camera, and Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ work together in everyday life. It is the simplest way to know if this technology belongs in your next SUV. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information