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Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a New 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA
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2026 Ford Explorer

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Everything You Need to Know Before Buying a New 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA

For families, adventurers, and daily drivers who expect more from their midsize SUV, the 2026 Ford ExplorerĀ® brings a refined balance of power, technology, and versatility. From confident towing to advanced driver-assist innovation, it is designed to make every mile easier and every trip more enjoyable, whether you’re heading to school drop-off, weekend ball games, or a mountain trail. At Lake Hartwell Ford, we help you shop and compare trims, packages, and capabilities so you can feel absolutely confident choosing a 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA that fits your life. If you want space for up to seven, available hands-free highway driving support, and smart connectivity that feels effortless, this is the three-row SUV built to keep up without compromise.

2026 Ford Explorer Overview

2026 Ford Explorer Overview

The 2026 Ford ExplorerĀ® continues a legacy of family-ready capability backed by modern engineering and intuitive tech. Built on a rear-wheel-drive architecture with available Intelligent 4WD, the Explorer blends stable road manners with surefooted confidence when weather turns or the route gets rugged. Power starts with the 2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 with Auto Stop-Start Technology for a strong mix of acceleration and efficiency, while available performance upgrades broaden your options for trail and towing. With up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity and an available Class III Trailer Tow Package, bringing the boat, bikes, or camper is refreshingly simple.

Inside, available seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space help you move people and gear with ease. Techwise, the Explorer is available with Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® Assist+ and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving on select trims, plus the Ford Digital Experience for seamless streaming and connectivity. Families near Commerce, GA will appreciate how it combines everyday practicality with compelling innovation and the confidence of proven Ford SUV DNA.

5 Key Reasons the 2026 Ford Explorer Stands Out near Commerce, GA

5 Key Reasons the 2026 Ford Explorer Stands Out near Commerce, GA

  • Proven power and towing: Up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity and available Class III Trailer Tow Package make hauling simple.
  • Confidence-inspiring technologies: Available Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® Assist+ and BlueCruise help reduce fatigue on long highway drives.
  • Family-first space: Available seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo room support busy lives.
  • Adventure-ready trims: From the athletic ST and ST-Line to the off-road-focused TremorĀ®, there’s a model for every driver.
  • Modern connectivity: Ford Digital Experience, available B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ®, and Wi-FiĀ® support elevate road time.

Across the lineup, the Explorer focuses on what owners value most: adaptable utility, confident performance, and smart driver assistance that acts like a helpful co-pilot rather than a distraction. When your SUV can tow the toys, seat the team, and keep you comfortable and connected, long days feel easier and weekend plans get bigger.

Key Features of the 2026 Ford Explorer


2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 with Auto Stop-Start

The Explorer’s standard 2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 is a standout, delivering responsive power that makes merging, passing, and towing feel natural. Turbocharged punch gets you up to speed with minimal drama, while Auto Stop-Start Technology helps reduce idling when you’re waiting at lights or in pickup lines. The engine’s smart calibration is the sweet spot for daily drivability—quiet in the background when cruising and eager when the road opens up. When it’s time to tow, the Explorer is engineered for up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped, and the available Class III Trailer Tow Package integrates factory hardware and helpful features so you can hook up and head out with confidence. If you want more muscle for your favorite trails, the TremorĀ® offers an available 3.0L EcoBoostĀ® engine tuned for robust off-road performance, while ST brings unmistakable athleticism and the kind of throttle response driving enthusiasts appreciate.

BlueCruise Hands-Free Highway Driving

Available BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving assistance feature that can help you accelerate, brake, and steer on compatible roads while you keep your eyes on the road. On models like Platinumā„¢, BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is equipped with an included plan term, bringing measurable relief on longer trips and high-traffic commutes. The system works alongside other Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® technologies and can help reduce fatigue by managing speed and lane position on approved highways. It’s the kind of driver-assist capability you quickly come to trust—especially when road conditions are predictable—because it frees you to focus on situational awareness while the Explorer handles the routine. Pair it with Adaptive Cruise Control from Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® Assist+ and the experience becomes even more seamless, giving you hands-off support in defined scenarios and smart assistance the rest of the time.

Selectable Drive Modes and Available Intelligent 4WD

Selectable drive modes make the Explorer feel ā€œdialed inā€ for your day. With the twist of a controller, you can tailor throttle mapping, shift logic, steering feel, and traction settings to match conditions—whether you’re navigating wet pavement, loose gravel, or a winding country road. Add available Intelligent 4WD and the Explorer can distribute torque where it’s needed to help maintain grip in challenging weather or on uneven surfaces. The TremorĀ® trim goes even further with a TorsenĀ® limited-slip rear axle for enhanced traction, an off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates. This combination helps you maintain momentum and stability on rutted paths and steep grades, leveraging Explorer chassis engineering to tackle more adventurous terrain without sacrificing daily comfort.

Interior Versatility up to Seven and 85.8 cu ft

Inside, the Explorer is about making every seat a good seat. Available seating for up to seven means family, friends, and teammates ride comfortably, while clever storage areas and generous cargo flexibility keep the cabin organized. Fold the rear rows to unlock up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space, enough for home improvement runs, tailgate gear, or vacation luggage. Available heated and ventilated front seats with massage on select trims elevate comfort on longer days, and available ambient lighting adds a tailored feel after dark. Details like an available power liftgate simplify loading, and thoughtful ergonomics put essential controls right where you expect them. Whether you’re carpooling, hauling, or road tripping, the cabin’s design focuses on easy access and quick reconfiguration—because real-life schedules rarely stick to the plan.

Ford Digital Experience and B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ®

The Ford Digital Experience brings your digital life along for the ride with intuitive menus and the partners you already use, designed and curated by Ford to enhance your drive. While parked, enjoy streaming, games, even karaoke, and keep your devices online with available Wi-FiĀ®. For audio, the available B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ® with 10 speakers including subwoofer surrounds the cabin with clarity and depth. Add a 360-Degree Camera on select trims for improved low-speed visibility around the vehicle, and the Explorer becomes both your command center and your comfort zone. These technologies are integrated to reduce distraction—clear graphics, crisp audio, and quick responses—so you spend less time navigating menus and more time enjoying the journey.

5 Buying Considerations Before You Choose Your Ford Explorer
5 Buying Considerations Before You Choose Your Ford Explorer
  1. Passenger needs: Decide if you want bench seating or captain’s chairs and how often you’ll use all three rows.
  2. Driving conditions: Consider available Intelligent 4WD and drive modes if you regularly see rain, gravel, or unpaved routes.
  3. Towing plans: If you’ll pull a trailer, select the available Class III Trailer Tow Package and confirm weight needs up to 5,000 lbs.
  4. Tech priorities: Choose trims with Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® Assist+ and available BlueCruise for advanced driver-assist support.
  5. Lifestyle fit: Compare Active, ST-Line, ST, TremorĀ®, and Platinumā„¢ to match styling, performance, and comfort to your routine.

Before you build your Explorer, think through how you’ll use it most. Weekend towing calls for the right hitch and cooling hardware, frequent highway drives favor BlueCruise and Adaptive Cruise Control, and off-pavement exploration makes the TremorĀ® upgrades especially compelling. A few minutes of planning ensures you choose the configuration that truly fits your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the towing capacity for the 2026 Ford ExplorerĀ®?

When properly equipped, the Explorer offers up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity. Pair the available Class III Trailer Tow Package with the right engine and accessories to confidently pull small campers, watercraft, or utility trailers. The Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive architecture, available Intelligent 4WD, and smart trailer features help make towing feel repeatable and calm.

How many passengers can the Explorer seat, and how much cargo space is available?

The Explorer offers available seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cu ft of cargo space when you fold the rear rows. This flexibility helps you switch from school runs to weekend projects, with wide cargo openings and an available power liftgate for easier loading.

Does the Explorer offer AWD or 4WD?

The Explorer is rear-wheel drive as standard, with available Intelligent 4WD. This system can adjust torque distribution to help maintain traction on wet, snowy, or unpaved roads. For added off-road capability, the TremorĀ® includes a TorsenĀ® limited-slip rear axle, off-road tuned suspension with increased ride height, and underbody protection.

What’s new or notable about the 2026 Ford ExplorerĀ® lineup?

Highlights include available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving on select models, the robust 2.3L EcoBoostĀ® I-4 with Auto Stop-Start Technology, and adventurous hardware on TremorĀ® such as underbody protection and a TorsenĀ® limited-slip rear axle. Inside, the Ford Digital Experience and available B&OĀ® Sound System by Bang & OlufsenĀ® bring premium connectivity and audio to the cabin.

Step-by-Step Tips for Test Driving the 2026 Ford Explorer
Step-by-Step Tips for Test Driving the 2026 Ford Explorer
  • Confirm seating fit: Sit in all three rows to check comfort, visibility, and child-seat access points.
  • Explore drive modes: Toggle through selectable modes and feel how throttle and steering responses change.
  • Evaluate highway composure: Merge and cruise to assess noise levels, stability, and engine response.
  • Try driver-assist tech: Test Adaptive Cruise Control and, where available, BlueCruise on compatible roads.
  • Practice loading: Open the liftgate, fold seats, and see how gear fits in the cargo area.
  • Check towing readiness: If you plan to tow, review hitch access and available trailer settings.
  • Test visibility: Use the available 360-Degree Camera to gauge parking and low-speed maneuvering.

From Hartwell to Elberton, real-world errands often reveal what spec sheet numbers cannot. Bring your typical cargo, map a familiar route, and put the Explorer through your daily motions. The right trim choice becomes obvious when you evaluate comfort, tech, and drivability in situations you face every week.

Why Buy from Lake Hartwell Ford near Commerce, GA?

  • Hometown superstore advantage: Our selection spans trims and packages so you can compare and customize with ease.
  • Exceptional customer care: Our team focuses on clear communication and a pressure-free experience.
  • Factory-trained service: Our certified technicians and OEM parts help keep your Explorer performing like new.
  • Efficient ownership support: From routine maintenance to complex repairs, we streamline every visit.
  • Flexible financing options: Our finance experts work with trusted lenders to tailor terms to your needs.

We believe the best ownership experience starts on day one and continues for years. Our knowledgeable staff, service-first approach, and commitment to OEM-quality care make it easier to buy confidently and maintain your Explorer with total peace of mind.

Next Steps

  • Compare trims: Review Active, ST-Line, ST, TremorĀ®, and Platinumā„¢ to match your needs.
  • Choose capability: Decide on rear-wheel drive or available Intelligent 4WD and towing equipment.
  • Select tech suites: Add Ford Co-Pilot360Ā® Assist+ and available BlueCruise if you value highway support.
  • Plan accessories: Consider roof carriers, liners, and towing add-ons for your lifestyle.
  • Schedule your visit: Book a test drive and evaluation to finalize your ideal build.

Arriving prepared ensures you get everything you want the first time. Bring your checklist, your typical gear, and your favorite routes. We’ll help you validate seating, cargo, tech, and performance so your Explorer is ready from day one.

Request More Info About the 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA

Ready to see how thoroughly the Explorer fits your life? Our team is happy to walk you through trims, capability options, and the latest technology in person, then set you up for an informative test drive. If towing or off-road exploration is on your list, we’ll help you configure the available Class III Trailer Tow Package or guide you through TremorĀ® hardware like a TorsenĀ® limited-slip rear axle and underbody protection. The right 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA should make your weekdays smoother and your weekends more adventurous—and we’re here to make that choice simple. Visit or reach out to Lake Hartwell Ford to request a personalized walkthrough, compare must-have packages, and schedule a hands-on drive. Your 2026 Ford Explorer near Commerce, GA is waiting, and our team is ready to help you feel completely confident before you take the keys.

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