A Versatile Lineup: Which 2026 Ford Explorer Is Your Perfect Match?
Finding the perfect three-row SUV can feel like an impossible challenge. Although this segment is flooded with options, it can be difficult to find a model that has an ideal blend of family-friendly design, rugged capabilities, and impressive power. But it’s not impossible. The Ford Explorer brings together all the most essential features to create the ultimate functional family SUV.
While the Explorer is an incredible vehicle, Ford also understands it’s not a one-size-fits-all purchase. That’s why for the 2026 model year, the brand offers six distinct trim levels, each with its own benefits, ensuring there is an option for every budget and lifestyle. If you’re searching for a Ford Explorer for sale near Pueblo, you might be wondering which trim is best for you.
We’re here to break down everything each of these trims has to offer, helping you make an informed purchase and find the SUV with all the features you need. Keep reading if you’re ready to meet the 2026 Explorer of your dreams.
The Active and Active 100A: Affordable Entry Level Options
The first trim levels the Explorer is available in are the Active 100A and the Active. These entry-level options are the ideal choice for shoppers seeking the benefits of a new vehicle at an affordable price point.
The Active 100A has a starting price of $38,465, while the Active begins at $40,585.[a] However, don’t let the base level and approachable sticker price lead you to believe these trims don’t have plenty to offer.
Under the hood, both the Active 100A and Active come with Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost engine, which boasts an impressive 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For towing, these trims also come with Ford’s Class III Trailer Tow Package, allowing you to tow up to 5,000 pounds. You can bring along all your adventure gear—from boats to pop-up campers—without breaking a sweat.
Both trims include Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ and Adaptive Cruise Control, helping you feel safer behind the wheel. This advanced driver assistance package has many incredible features to help you be more proactive on the road and improve your chances of avoiding collisions.
As if these base trims didn’t have enough to offer, they also include selectable drive modes, which let you adjust the performance, handling, and efficiency of your Explorer based on driving conditions. Choose from settings like Eco, Sport, Slippery, Trail, and Tow/Haul to optimize your SUV’s capabilities.
While the Active 100A and Active are both entry-level trims for the Explorer, there are a few key differences. The Active’s slightly higher price point reflects the features it offers that the Active 100A does not. For instance, the Active comes with a power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area and heated front seats to keep you warm on chilly days.
No matter which option you prefer, the Active 100A and Active are the perfect choice for budget-conscious families seeking modern tech and convenience without the premium price tag.
The ST-Line: Sporty and Stylish
Next in the lineup is the sporty ST-Line trim, with a starting price of $45,155.[a] This head-turning trim upgrades the exterior with blacked-out accents for a bolder look. The ST-Line trim is equipped with the same 2.3L EcoBoost engine, providing an excellent blend of efficiency and power.
This trim comes with a convenient 360-degree camera, providing a seamless, bird’s-eye view of your Explorer, making tasks such as parking and maneuvering easier than ever before.
Inside the cabin, the ST-Line features durable cloth-trimmed seats, helping to reduce staining and make clean-up easier. However, these seats also feature striking red stitching for a pop of color.
For audio enthusiasts, the ST-Line features a B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 10 speakers and a subwoofer for an enhanced listening experience across music and podcasts.
The ST-Line is the best option for shoppers seeking a premium audio experience and a sporty design at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
The Tremor: An Off-Road Specialist
New for the 2026 model year, Ford has introduced the Tremor trim level, created with the outdoor enthusiast in mind. With a starting price of $48,465, this model has everything you need to take the road less traveled.[a]
This ultimate adventure rig includes a Torsen limited-slip rear axle to prevent wheelspin in slippery conditions. It instantly transfers torque to the wheel with the best traction for improved grip.
The Tremor is also equipped with an off-road-tuned suspension, increased ride height, and underbody protection, offering many benefits while off-roading.
- Increased Ride Height: Easily clear more challenging terrain with increased ride height, helping avoid scraping on rocks or ruts.
- Better Impact Absorption: Off-roading can get uncomfortable from the frequent bumps along the way. The upgraded suspension offers better impact absorption, so you’ll enjoy a smoother ride.
- Underbody Protection: Skid plates under the SUV, along with front and rear deflector plates, protect critical areas from damage.
The Tremor trim level is the ultimate companion for thrill-seeking Pueblo drivers. It’s the perfect choice for adventurers hoping to travel farther off-road.
The Platinum: Premium Luxury
For drivers who want the most comfortable ride, the Platinum trim has all the upgraded features you’re looking for. With a starting price of $50,965, this trim turns the Explorer into a first-class lounge.[a]
Whether you’re traveling long distances or just to pick the kids up from school, the Platinum trim offers luxurious features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats so you can experience the ultimate in comfort on your drive.
The Platinum trim comes with an included BlueCruise subscription, an advanced, hands-free driver assistance system, allowing you to take some of the strain off long road trips.
For the shopper looking for a luxury-car feel in a capable SUV package, the Platinum trim is the way to go.
The ST: Pure Performance
With a starting price of $54,905, the ST trim level is the most expensive in the 2026 Explorer lineup.[a] However, this trim is well-equipped, offering a performance-based drive.
The ST includes a sport-tuned suspension designed for enhanced handling and a more connected feel to the road. This trim also comes with the upgraded 3.0L EcoBoost engine, which boasts an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
For enhanced braking power, the ST trim is equipped with performance brakes with red-painted brake calipers. This upgrade is as bold as it is powerful.
The ST trim is the perfect choice for driving enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on power or performance, but still seek a spacious, family-friendly SUV.
Choose Your Perfect Trim From the Explorer’s Diverse Lineup
The Ford Explorer has already carved a path for itself as the ultimate family SUV. But with the 2026 model year, the brand has gone further than ever before to ensure there is an option in this impressive lineup for every buyer.
Whether you’re an outdoor adventure seeker, a shopper on a budget, or you prefer the finer things in life, there is an Explorer trim level perfectly designed to meet your needs.
No matter which option you choose, every 2026 Explorer comes standard with incredible inclusions like a Class III Tow Trailer Package and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. This SUV has all the features Pueblo drivers need for everything from school drop-offs to family road trips.
If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a 2026 Ford Explorer but weren’t sure which trim was your best fit, let this in-depth guide help you make a final decision. Although every option is impressive in its own right, there is a perfect fit for everyone in this diverse lineup.
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