2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Affordable Midsize Sport SUV Review

Redesigned 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line

• 🚗 The 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line is a recently redesigned, rear-wheel drive midsize three-row SUV.
• 💡 Ford offers the Explorer in various trims, including Active, ST Line, King Ranch, ST, and Tremor, each with a distinct front fascia.
• 💰 This ST-Line trim is positioned as a sporty value option, focusing on affordability within the midsize SUV segment.

Exterior Design and Features

• ✨ The front features all LED lighting, including daytime running lamps, headlights, and fog lights, with functional corner air curtains.
• 💎 The ST-Line boasts a gloss black splitter and grille, with the iconic Ford blue oval badge and a forward-facing camera.
• 💨 Optional 21-inch V-spoke wheels with red-painted brake calipers (from the police interceptor) and 275/45 tires are highlighted.
• 🎨 The exterior color shown is Vapor Blue, with gloss black mirror caps and body-colored door handles featuring the 'Explorer' name.

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚙️ This specific ST-Line model is equipped with a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
• 🚀 It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 6.7 seconds, with a top speed governed at 120 mph.
• ⛽ Fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lb.
• 🔊 The vehicle includes a strut tower brace for front-end stiffening and offers simulated engine sound enhancement for a sportier feel.

Interior Comfort and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior features soft-touch materials with red contrast stitching, a B&O soundbar, and a standard 13-inch infotainment system.
• 📱 Controls for heated seats, heated steering wheel, and vehicle settings like hill descent control are integrated into the touchscreen.
• 🔌 Connectivity includes USB-C and USB-A ports, a 12-volt outlet, and a rotary dial shifter for the 10-speed automatic transmission.
• 💺 Seating includes black leather with red stitching, power controls for the passenger and driver, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with selectable drive modes.

Space and Practicality

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The mid-row offers comfortable captain's chairs with armrests, heated seats, blower fan, temperature control, two USB-C ports, and a home power source.
• 🧳 Cargo space is 16 cubic feet with the third row up, expanding to 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85 cubic feet with both rear rows folded.
• 🎒 A 12-volt outlet is available in the cargo area for accessories like an electric air compressor.

Driving Experience

• 🛣️ The rear-wheel-drive setup provides a unique and nimble driving experience, especially in handling twisty roads.
• 💨 In Sport mode, the steering feel and throttle sensitivity are adjusted, with impressive power delivery to the rear wheels.
• 🔊 Ford's simulated engine sound is noted as well-executed, enhancing the sporty feel without being overly artificial.
• 🔇 Ride quality is smooth, with minimal road or wind noise, even with the large 21-inch wheels and wide tires.