Blog / 2026 Ford Explorer

The 2026 Ford Explorer: Built for Every Journey

A photo of a 2026 Ford Explorer parked in front of a body of water with a Ferris wheel in the back.

The 2026 Ford Explorer continues to refine the idea of the modern midsize SUV, pairing confident power with thoughtful technology and the kind of interior flexibility real families actually use. For drivers in Starke, FL, the Explorer feels engineered for the long haul—capable enough for weekend escapes, composed on the highway, and comfortable during the daily grind. 

Powertrain Options That Feel Effortless 

Under the hood, the Explorer delivers performance that never feels strained. The standard turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 produces 300 hp and 310 lbs.-ft. of torque, striking a balance between brisk acceleration and efficiency. Drivers looking for more authority can step up to the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, which pushes output to 400 hp and 415 lbs.-ft. of torque—useful for confident passing and heavier towing demands. 

Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a suite of selectable drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail or Off-Road depending on configuration. The result is an SUV that adapts naturally to changing road surfaces and driving priorities around Starke and beyond. 

Towing and All-Weather Capability 

Every 2026 Explorer comes ready to work, thanks to a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package that supports up to 5,000 lbs. of towing capacity. Trailer Sway Control, Side-Wind Stabilization, and BLIS® with Trailer Coverage contribute to stability and awareness when pulling boats, campers, or utility trailers. 

Available Intelligent 4WD adds another layer of confidence, distributing power as conditions change. Florida rainstorms, slick highways, and unpaved access roads feel far less demanding when the Explorer is managing traction in the background. 

Technology That Serves the Drive 

Inside, the Explorer’s technology feels purposeful rather than distracting. A large center touchscreen anchors Ford’s Digital Experience, providing clean access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Wireless connectivity and Google-based apps integrate naturally into daily use, while voice assistance reduces the need to take eyes off the road. 

For longer highway stretches, available BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance brings a sense of calm. Automatic Lane Change and driver-monitoring technology work quietly in the background, easing fatigue without removing the driver from the equation. 

Safety That Inspires Confidence 

Ford Co-Pilot360® driver-assist technology is standard across the Explorer lineup. Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, and Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert form a comprehensive safety net. 

Together, these systems add reassurance during everyday traffic and longer drives alike, helping the Explorer feel composed in unpredictable situations. 

Space Designed Around Real Life 

The 2026 Explorer seats up to 7 passengers and offers up to 85.8 cu. ft. of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Available PowerFold® third-row seating makes it easy to switch from passenger duty to cargo hauling in seconds, while smart storage solutions keep smaller items from becoming clutter. 

A panoramic fixed-glass roof with power sunshade, ambient interior lighting, and premium seating options elevate the cabin from purely functional to genuinely inviting. 

Comfort That Travels Well 

Material quality and attention to detail define the Explorer’s interior experience. Available heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium B&O® audio systems transform routine drives into something closer to a reward than a chore. 

The Explorer’s strength lies in balance—capability without excess, technology without complication, and comfort that holds up mile after mile. 

See the Explorer in Starke, FL 

The 2026 Ford Explorer brings together performance, technology, and everyday livability in a way few midsize SUVs manage. To experience it firsthand, visit Murray Ford Starke and see how the Explorer fits life in North Florida. 

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Smart Savings Opportunities for Drivers in Starke

In a market where timing often matters as much as product choice, vehicle incentives can feel less like marketing noise and more like a genuine ownership advantage. Drivers in Starke understand the importance of balancing capability with value, especially when selecting a truck or SUV expected to handle both daily commuting and demanding workloads. Current Ford specials provide a practical pathway to securing modern performance and technology at a more accessible investment point. more Heavy-Duty Strength with Super Duty Incentives For buyers focused on maximum capability, the 2026 Ford Super Duty® represents one of the most compelling opportunities. Select models may qualify for promotional financing offers, including limited-time low APR programs and regional bonus cash incentives. Properly equipped Super Duty configurations can achieve impressive towing capability, with available gooseneck ratings reaching up to approximately 40,000 lbs. and conventional towing nearing 30,000 lbs. Available Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0 driver-assist technologies help support awareness during highway travel or jobsite maneuvering, reinforcing the truck’s balance between rugged strength and modern safety expectations. These incentive programs can make stepping into heavy-duty ownership significantly more attainable for drivers who rely on consistent performance. F-150 Lease Value and Everyday Versatility The 2026 Ford F-150® continues to attract strong interest through competitive lease offers available in select markets. Monthly payment structures and due-at-signing requirements vary by trim and eligibility, yet these promotions frequently position the F-150 as an accessible entry point into full-size truck capability. When equipped with the available 3.5 L EcoBoost® engine, output can reach up to 400 hp while towing capacity approaches approximately 13,500 lbs. Available BlueCruise™ hands-free highway driving technology further enhances long-distance comfort, aligning with the needs of drivers who regularly travel between regional job sites or neighboring Florida communities. Ranger Incentives for Compact Truck Efficiency Drivers seeking a smaller yet highly capable pickup may find the 2025 Ford Ranger® particularly appealing when supported by promotional lease programs. Powered by a responsive 2.3 L EcoBoost® engine producing around 270 hp, the Ranger blends practical fuel efficiency with confident everyday usability. EPA-estimated ratings near 21 MPG city and 26 MPG highway contribute to reduced operating costs during routine commuting. Lease incentives on midsize trucks can provide an attractive ownership strategy for buyers prioritizing maneuverability and affordability without abandoning genuine capability. Guidance on Making the Most of Ford Incentives Taking full advantage of dealership specials often begins with understanding personal driving priorities. Evaluating towing needs, cargo requirements, and technology preferences can help narrow the selection process. Financing eligibility factors, regional program timing, and inventory availability also play meaningful roles in shaping final savings potential. Working with dealership specialists can simplify this process, ensuring that incentive structures align with long-term ownership expectations rather than short-term appeal alone. Explore Current Ford Savings at Murray Ford Starke Drivers in Starke who are ready to combine modern truck capability with meaningful financial incentives will find a wide range of opportunities at Murray Ford Starke. Visiting the dealership to review current specials, available inventory, and tailored financing solutions offers a practical next step toward securing a Ford vehicle that fits both lifestyle demands and budget goals.

Ford Bronco Trim Levels Explained

The Bronco lineup doesn’t follow a simple good-better-best formula. One model gives you the essentials and room to customize. Another adds daily comfort. Farther up the lineup, you’ll find specialized hardware for rocky trails, retro-inspired styling, and high-speed off-road performance. Understanding the Ford Bronco trim levels can help you spend money on the capability and comfort you’ll actually use. At Murray Ford of Starke, we help North Florida shoppers compare each Bronco’s personality, equipment, and everyday practicality before choosing their trail partner. Bronco Trim Levels in Order For the current 2026 lineup, the Bronco trim levels in order are: Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor. That order provides a helpful starting point for comparing Ford Bronco trim levels, but the special editions don’t always follow a traditional upgrade ladder. Heritage Edition focuses on vintage style, Stroppe Edition draws inspiration from desert racing, and Raptor sits at the top for extreme off-road performance. Base: Start With the Bronco Essentials The Ford Bronco Base trim is the blank canvas of the lineup. It offers the Bronco’s core 4x4 character without loading the vehicle with every available appearance or luxury feature. For 2026, the Base is the starting point among the Ford Bronco trim levels, offering two-door and four-door configurations with a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. Shoppers can choose a seven-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission, and the Sasquatch Package is available for drivers who want a more aggressive trail setup. Choose the Ford Bronco Base trim when you want straightforward capability, prefer a lower starting point, or plan to personalize your Bronco over time. Big Bend: Everyday Adventure Gets Easier The Ford Bronco Big Bend trim is one of the most approachable choices for daily driving. It builds on the Base with touches such as rear privacy glass, aluminum wheels, and more package flexibility. The four-door Big Bend keeps the 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and offers manual or automatic transmission choices. Available Black Diamond, Free Wheeling, and Sasquatch packages let shoppers move the design toward rugged utility, retro style, or stronger off-road capability. For many Starke drivers, the Ford Bronco Big Bend trim lands in a useful sweet spot. It has the Bronco look and open-air character while remaining comfortable enough for commuting, errands, and weekend exploring. Outer Banks: More Polish for the Daily Drive When comparing the Bronco trim levels in order, Outer Banks is where the lineup begins to feel more refined. Body-color exterior details, 18-inch wheels, power front seats, carpeted flooring, and an available Lux Package give it a more polished feel than the lower Ford Bronco trim levels. An available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 adds extra muscle, while the available 60th Anniversary Package blends retro design with leather seating and Sasquatch off-road equipment. Outer Banks makes sense when your Bronco will spend most weekdays on pavement, but you still want removable doors, open-air fun, and real 4x4 confidence. Badlands: Built for Tougher Trails Badlands is where the lineup becomes more serious about technical off-roading. It adds HOSS 2.0 suspension with Bilstein dampers, seven G.O.A.T. Modes, full-vehicle steel bash plates, an advanced 4x4 system, and an available front stabilizer bar disconnect. The cabin also reflects its trail focus with marine-grade vinyl seating and washout-capable rubberized flooring. Leather-trimmed seating is available for shoppers who want rugged hardware with a more upscale interior. Among the Ford Bronco trim levels, Badlands is a strong choice for drivers who expect to use the Bronco’s capability rather than simply admire it in the driveway. Heritage Edition: Old-School Looks, Modern Hardware Heritage Edition brings vintage Bronco character into the current lineup. Its Oxford White-painted hardtop, heritage graphics, plaid cloth seats, and unique badging create a look that stands apart immediately. It’s more than an appearance package. The 2026 four-door Heritage Edition includes 35-inch tires and HOSS 2.0 suspension, with an available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. Choose it when classic Bronco style matters just as much as modern capability. Stroppe and Raptor: Performance Turns Up Stroppe Edition brings Baja-inspired attitude with a 330-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, HOSS 3.0 suspension with FOX internal bypass dampers, and distinctive Code Orange details. For 2026, it’s offered as a four-door model. Raptor is the highest and most extreme entry among the Ford Bronco trim levels. Its 418-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, 37-inch tires, wide stance, and HOSS 4.0 suspension are built for drivers seeking serious high-performance off-road capability. Match the Trim to Your Kind of Adventure Reading the Bronco trim levels in order only tells part of the story. The right choice depends on where you’ll drive and what you value most. Start with Base for simplicity and customization. Across the Ford Bronco trim levels, Big Bend suits balanced daily use, Outer Banks adds extra comfort, and Badlands is built for demanding trails. Heritage Edition brings throwback personality, while Stroppe and Raptor appeal to shoppers who want specialized off-road performance. Put the Bronco Lineup to the Test in Starke At Murray Ford of Starke, our team can help you compare the Ford Bronco trim levels, starting with the Ford Bronco Base trim and moving through Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and available special editions. Explore current inventory, check the equipment on individual vehicles, and take your top choice for a test drive Ford Bronco Trim Level FAQs Still comparing the Ford Bronco trim levels? These quick answers explain the lineup, from the Ford Bronco Base trim to its most capable options. What are the Bronco trim levels? For 2026, the Bronco trim levels in order are Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor. Package and configuration availability varies by trim. What Bronco trim should I get? The right choice depends on how you plan to drive. Choose the Ford Bronco Base trim for core capability, Big Bend for a balanced daily driver, Outer Banks for added comfort, or Badlands for more technical off-roading. Heritage Edition emphasizes retro styling, while Stroppe and Raptor deliver specialized performance. Which Bronco trim has leather seats? Leather-trimmed seating is available on several Ford Bronco trim levels, including select Outer Banks, Badlands, and Raptor configurations. The Outer Banks 60th Anniversary Package also includes leather seating. Always confirm the upholstery on the exact Bronco you’re considering. What is the highest Bronco trim? Raptor is the highest-performance Bronco trim. It uses a 418-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 and specialized suspension designed for demanding off-road driving. Which Bronco trim is best for daily driving? The Ford Bronco Big Bend trim is a strong everyday choice because it combines useful comfort features, four-door practicality, and available packages without moving immediately into the more specialized upper trims. Outer Banks is also worth considering when premium cabin features are a higher priority.

Ford SUVs by Size: Compact, Midsize, and Full-Size Options

The right SUV should give you enough room without making every parking space feel like a puzzle. Some drivers need a nimble two-row crossover for errands and commutes. Others need three rows, road-trip cargo space, and room for the whole crew. Comparing Ford SUVs by size will help you narrow your choices before getting caught up in trims, colors, and packages. At Murray Ford of Starke, we help shoppers explore the Ford SUV lineup by size based on how they actually drive around Starke, Gainesville, Jacksonville, and beyond. Compact Choices That Keep Life Moving A Ford small SUV gives you flexible cargo space, comfortable seating, and an easy-to-manage footprint. The Bronco Sport is Ford’s smallest traditional SUV, seating five in a rugged, compact package that measures about 173 inches long, depending on configuration. The Escape is another five-passenger Ford small SUV, but its 180.1-inch length and road-focused design give it a little more room. It also offers gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrain choices. The all-electric Mustang Mach-E seats five and adds cargo space behind the second row, plus a front trunk. When comparing Ford SUVs by size, these two-row models are strong choices for commuters, couples, and small families. Midsize Room Without the Full-Size Footprint A Ford mid size SUV adds passenger flexibility and cargo room while remaining easier to manage than a full-size model. The Bronco brings an off-road-focused personality to this part of the lineup. Two-door models seat four, while four-door models can seat five. The body style makes a big difference in overall size, rear-seat access, and cargo capacity, so shoppers should compare both versions in person. The Explorer is Ford’s more traditional family-focused Ford mid size SUV. It offers three rows with seating for six or seven passengers, depending on the model and seating configuration. That makes it a natural fit for school runs, sports schedules, carpools, and road trips where a compact SUV may feel crowded. Among Ford SUVs by size, the Explorer fills an important middle ground. It gives families three rows without requiring the larger exterior footprint of an Expedition. Full-Size Space for Bigger Plans The Expedition is the clear Ford full size SUV in the lineup. It offers three rows and seating for up to eight, depending on the configuration. Shoppers can choose between the standard-length Expedition and the longer Expedition MAX, which provides additional room for cargo. This is the model to consider when passenger capacity, luggage room, and everyday versatility matter more than compact maneuverability. When comparing Ford SUVs by size, Expedition is built for drivers who regularly use all three rows or need space behind them. Start With Your Real Routine The largest SUV isn’t automatically the best choice. Start by thinking about what happens during a normal week. A Ford small SUV may be the better match when most drives involve commuting, errands, or one or two passengers. A Ford mid size SUV makes sense when you need more seating or cargo flexibility but don’t always use three rows. A Ford full size SUV becomes more practical when a larger family, frequent travel, or bulky cargo is part of everyday life. It also helps to consider parking, passenger access, fuel or charging preferences, and how often you’ll fold the rear seats. Looking at the Ford SUV lineup by size this way can prevent you from buying too much vehicle or outgrowing your SUV too quickly. Compare Ford SUVs in Starke Specifications can point you in the right direction, but sitting inside each model makes the differences much clearer. At Murray Ford of Starke, our team can help you compare Ford SUVs by size, from a maneuverable Ford small SUV to a roomier Ford mid size SUV with added passenger and cargo flexibility. Test second- and third-row access, check cargo space, and explore the features available on specific vehicles. Browse our new Ford SUV inventory, then schedule a test drive in the models that fit your routine. Find the Size That Feels Right From the city-friendly Bronco Sport to the spacious Expedition MAX, Ford gives shoppers several ways to balance passenger space, cargo capacity, and everyday maneuverability. Once you compare Ford SUVs by size, finding the right match becomes much simpler. Ford SUV Size FAQs Still comparing Ford SUVs by size? These quick answers can help you narrow down which model best fits your passenger, cargo, and driving needs. Does Ford have a small SUV? Yes. Ford currently offers several Ford small SUV options, including the Bronco Sport, Escape, and all-electric Mustang Mach-E. Each seats five, but their designs, powertrains, and driving personalities differ. What Ford SUV is smaller than the Escape? The Bronco Sport is shorter than the Escape. The current Bronco Sport measures approximately 173 inches long, while the Escape measures 180.1 inches long. Is a Ford Explorer a full-size SUV? No. The Explorer is generally considered a midsize three-row SUV. It sits between Ford’s compact two-row choices and the Ford full size SUV, the Expedition. Is a Ford Escape a full-size SUV? No. When comparing Ford SUVs by size, the Escape falls into the compact category. It seats five and gives drivers everyday versatility without the bulk of a larger SUV. Are all Ford Broncos the same size? No. In the Ford SUV lineup by size, the Bronco Sport is the smaller option. The larger Bronco comes in two-door and four-door configurations, with different lengths, seating capacities, and cargo space.