A Look at the 2026 Explorer Trim Lineup

Drivers these days appreciate options when it comes to their vehicles, and whether you’re a more adventurous traveler or you tend to stick mainly to the highway, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your driving habits and budget. Those interested in a three-row midsize SUV that offers the ideal blend of capability, ruggedness, and accommodation will be drawn to the Ford Explorer, a winner for everyone from families to adventure enthusiasts to daily drivers.

If you’re seeking out a Ford Explorer for sale near Carmel, you’ll want to check out the selection we have here at Pearson Ford, and if you’re wondering which Explorer model will work best for you, we recommend taking a close look at the 2026 selection. Let’s discover what trim options you have in this 2026 Explorer trim guide to help you find the best-suited Explorer model to meet your preferences behind the wheel.

Top-Tier Travelers

Carmel drivers who have incredibly high standards when it comes to the quality of their rides are frequently drawn to top-end trims, which showcase all the latest tech features and upscale design elements to wrap them in comfort as they travel. Fortunately, you’ll find a fine selection of luxury-level travelers available for the 2026 Ford Explorer. Let’s meet them.

ST

The highest rung of the trim ladder belongs to the ST, which showcases a wonderful assortment of features designed to elevate the quality of any type of drive. From a standard 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and first-row heated and ventilated seats to bright red stitching throughout to give the Explorer a racy flair, the top-tier ST is a looker from top to bottom. You’ll also find cutting-edge tech to ensure the best ride possible, including a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, BlueCruise hands-free driving capabilities, wireless Apple CarPlay and
Android Auto, and more innovations to revitalize your ride.

Platinum

Those who want a more traditional luxury experience will want to turn their attention to the Platinum, which showcases Platinum-branded leather upholstery, a panoramic fixed glass roof, and an eight-way power driver’s seat to enhance comfort on board. This upscale model exudes elegance from every detail, with an eye-catching exterior accentuated by brilliant LED lighting elements, available 21-inch wheels, and a Satin Chrome and Ebony grille that captures your attention from the moment it pulls up to you on the streets. Like the ST, the Platinum also offers advanced technology, including BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capabilities, a 360-degree camera system, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, and more, to ensure
a top-notch ride.

New Tremor Trim

The biggest news for the Explorer for 2026 is the arrival of the off-road-focused Tremor trim, which enables adventurous drivers throughout Carmel to tackle more challenges on the trails in their trusty Explorer. The Tremor trim offers access to features like a Torsen limited-slip rear axle for extreme precision on rough terrain, as well as an off-road-tuned suspension and higher ground clearance, allowing you to head out into the wilderness with confidence. Its exterior showcases a level of durability like no other, with underbody protection to keep the Explorer’s important components safe from any obstacles that you roll over. At the same time, specialized front tow hooks help you get out of tricky situations when you’re out in the woods.

A 3.0L EcoBoost turbocharged V6 is available to maximize your off-road escapades, making 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque to really intensify your time behind the wheel. You’ll also find a Terrain Management System to help you navigate any type of environment with agility, as well as an Intelligent 4WD system to ensure that no destination is too untamed for you to handle. Inside, durable materials greet you, with access to ActiveX-trimmed seats and Tremor badging throughout, plus comfort features to ensure a quality ride even if you’re roaming through the woods. From a 10-way power driver’s seat to heated and ventilated seats in the first row, the Tremor keeps you cozy while you’re rumbling over some of Mother Nature’s most dangerous terrains.

ST-Line Style

For Carmel drivers who crave a great blend of elegant styling and modern practicality, the mid-level ST-Line won’t disappoint. This style-savvy trim features cloth-trimmed seats with vibrant red accent stitching, adding a hint of excitement to the daily drive. You’ll also find first and second-row heated seats, power-adjustable seating in the front, and available second-row captain’s chairs to enhance comfort for more of your passengers. The ST-Line is just as stylish on the outside, with LED signature lighting, a black mesh grille, and available 21-inch aluminum wheels to complete the look of this modern machine.

A host of tech is also available to help you enjoy your time inside, with access to advanced features like a 13.2-inch center touchscreen display, which runs Ford’s newest software interface, the Ford Digital Experience, providing you with a more personalized approach to your daily drive. In addition, you’ll find wireless smartphone integration, a 10-speaker B&O sound system, and numerous safety and assistance features to enhance your journey, including parking assistance, camera systems, and available BlueCruise capabilities. You’ll get to enjoy all of this for a price that fits into many budgets, making the ST-Line a popular pick for those who want it all in their vehicle without overpaying for it.

Active Options

Finally, when it comes to your budget, Ford understands that it’s essential to stay within its parameters, which is why entry-level trims exist to cater to the needs of many drivers. Fortunately, the 2026 Explorer is available in two entry-level trims, offering budget-conscious drivers more choice in how they travel through Carmel and beyond.

Active

From heated front-row seats and second-row captain’s chairs to multiple USB ports on board, tri-zone climate control, and a power liftgate, the Active trim offers it all in one affordable package. You’ll find cozy cloth seats to help you remain comfortable during your daily commute, as well as a heated steering wheel and a panoramic glass roof, among other available features, to make your Explorer exactly how you need it to be without going over budget.

Active 100A

New for 2026, another entry-level trim joins the Explorer’s lineup: the Active 100A. This trim offers everything you need and nothing you don’t, helping you make the most of any type of ride. From a peppy 2.3L EcoBoost engine and selectable drive modes to make any ride perfectly catered to your surroundings to cozy seating elements and plenty of innovative tech, there’s nothing basic about this cost-effective trim.

Find the 2026 Ford Explorer Trim That Fits Your Journey

If you have your eye on the Explorer to help you get to all your Carmel destinations, it’s evident that you have plenty of options when it comes to the available trim offerings, especially for 2026 models. From high-end models to affordably priced entry-level options, plus rugged off-roaders and style icons, there’s something for every driver imaginable when it comes to the Explorer.

Whether you are concerned about your budget or you demand upscale elegance in your vehicle, you are sure to find the right Explorer model to suit your requirements on the road, the trails, and anywhere else your journey takes you. So, get ready to elevate your experience behind the wheel, adding comfort, capability, and Ford-level reliability to any travel scenario you encounter next.