Out With the Old? Choosing Between the 2026 Ford Explorer vs. the 2025 Ford Explorer

The flowers are blooming, a fresh coat of pollen is coating the ground, and the sky is constantly at odds with rain or shine. With the Spring season underway, many of us are saying goodbye to the old to make room for the new–but is that always the best course of action? 

When it comes to our cars, it depends. 

The Ford Explorer for 2026 is shiny and new, promising elevated comfort, enhanced driving technology, and trail-ready exploration. However, you might be wondering whether it is truly better than the previous model year. 

Let’s find out! 

Power & Performance: Evenly Matched 

When it comes to power, the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer are evenly matched. Both model years offer two engines: the 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 and the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. 

The I-4 engine delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged V6 delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive–with the option of all-wheel drive–the two models are identical under the hood. 

As you might expect, identical power translates into identical performance. 

The Ford Explorer for 2025 and 2026 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and comes equipped with the Class III Towing package. The towing package includes a hitch, a trailer wiring harness, and a trailer sway control system, which adjusts engine power and brakes to help you stay in command while hauling. 

Interior & Technology: The Tie Continues

2025 was the year of upgrades for the Ford Explorer, changing the narrative from a vehicle that relied solely on function to one that sought to present the right look and feel. And this continues into the 2026 lineup. 

The Ford Explorer interior on the base trim features durable cloth seats in Dark Space Gray, while higher trims offer a more premium look and feel with massaging leather-trimmed seats in Mojave Dusk or Salt Crystal Gray. Available ambient lighting adds an extra layer of personalization to the cabin, letting you set the mood for your adventure. 

Seat up to seven of your closest friends and family with ease across the three-row SUV or utilize your 85 cu-ft of maximum cargo space to store all of your essentials or the stuff you can’t leave home without. 

If you’re looking for upgraded technology, we have some bad news: the new and used Ford Explorer models continue to face off. Both offer a 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen infotainment system complete with the Ford Digital Experience software, which offers access to apps and services from Google and Amazon. 

Other technology features include: 

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 
• Eight USB ports 
• Three 12-volt power sockets 
• 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo 
• YouTube streaming capability 

Pricing and Trim Levels: Choice vs. Affordability 

While the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorers have been closely matched, the tiebreaker round is the deciding factor for most car buyers: affordability and choice. 

If the deciding factor comes down to options and variety, the 2026 Ford Explorer can’t be beat. Compared with the 2025 Ford Explorer, which has only 4 models, the 2026 lineup adds 2 trims: the off-road Tremor and the Active 100A. 

As for pricing, the 2026 Explorer lineup may have the prior model year beat. The Ford Explorer 2025 vs. 2026 pricing will vary slightly, with lower amounts found on the older model year. However, the introduction of the Active 100A trim for 2026 sets a new–and more affordable–baseline for the SUV, which may appeal to drivers seeking a more budget-friendly option. 

The 2026 Ford Explorer trims and prices include: 

• 2026 Ford Explorer Active 100A: Starting at $38,465
• 2026 Ford Explorer Active: Starting at $40,585
• 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Starting at $45,155
• 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor: Starting at $48,965
• 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum: Starting at $50,965
• 2026 Ford Explorer ST: Starting at $54,905

The 2025 Ford Explorer lineup includes: 

• 2025 Ford Explorer Active: Starting at $40,050
• 2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Starting at $45,020
• 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum: Starting at $52,525
• 2025 Ford Explorer ST: Starting at $54,770

Shop the New or Used Ford Explorer For Sale Near You at House Ford in Red Wing!

Whether you’re drawn to the performance and capability of the 2025 Explorer or appreciate the expanded options and budget-friendly base of the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup, you can’t go wrong with this iconic SUV. 

If you’re in the market for cutting-edge technology, a refined interior, and powerful engine options, look no further than the new Ford Explorer models at House Ford in Red Wing! 

Our team is here to help you compare features and models so you can drive home in the perfect vehicle for your next adventure. Visit us today to explore our selection of new and used Ford Explorer models, and take a test drive as soon as possible! 

Shop Ford Now

• Shop All New Ford Vehicles
• New Ford Specials
• Shop All Used Vehicles
• Used Car Specials
• Online Pre-Approval Application
• Contact Us
• Visit Us

Disclosure: Prices, incentives, and availability may change without notice and are subject to prior sale. Taxes, title, registration, and fees not included unless stated. Financing subject to credit approval; payments shown are estimates only. Vehicle features, specs, and EPA estimates may vary. Used vehicles sold “as-is” unless noted.

Posted in 2026 Ford Explorer | No Comments »