The Explorer Active is the smart starting point for Ford’s three-row family SUV. For 2026 it comes with a turbocharged 300-hp EcoBoost engine, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, a power liftgate and a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, with room for six thanks to second-row captain’s chairs. Watch our walkaround, then come see the Explorer Active in person at Five Star Ford North Richland Hills.
Video Walkaround
Watch the 2026 Explorer Active Walkaround
Our team walks you through the three-row SUV built for busy families. Pick a chapter to jump straight to the part you care about.
- ✓Clean, modern look. LED headlamps, black roof-rack side rails, a body-color rear spoiler and 18-inch aluminum wheels come standard. ▶ 0:00
- ✓Turbocharged power. A 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost with a 10-speed automatic, and up to 5,000 lbs of towing with the standard Class III package. ▶ 0:35
- ✓Big-screen tech. A 13.2-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. ▶ 1:58
- ✓Easy third-row access. Wondering how easy it is to get to the third row? We show you step by step. ▶ 5:50
- ✓Room for the whole crew. Second-row captain’s chairs, eight USB ports across all three rows, and a hands-free power liftgate. ▶ 6:15
Video Chapters
Click a chapter to jump to that part of the video above.
Why Explorer Active
Why the 2026 Explorer Active?
- ✓Three-row versatility. Seats six with standard second-row captain’s chairs, or seven with the available bench seat.
- ✓Comfort built in. Tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s seat and active noise cancellation.
- ✓Driver-assist tech, standard. Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ is included, along with a Lane Keeping System and rear parking sensors.
- ✓Ready for any season. Rear-wheel drive with six selectable drive modes is standard, with Intelligent 4WD and Hill Descent Control available.
At a Glance
Quick Facts
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with auto start-stop |
|---|---|
| Horsepower / Torque** | 300 hp / 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD standard; Intelligent 4WD available |
| Max Towing | 5,000 lbs with standard Class III Trailer Tow Package |
| Seating | 6 standard; 7 with available second-row bench |
| Cargo Space | 16.3 cu. ft. behind 3rd row; 85.8 cu. ft. max |
| Technology | 13.2-in. touchscreen and 12.3-in. digital cluster |
| Warranty | 3-yr/36,000-mi bumper-to-bumper; 5-yr/60,000-mi powertrain |
Trim Levels
2026 Explorer Trim Levels
From the well-equipped Active to the 400-hp ST, there’s an Explorer for every family.
| Trim | Standard Engine | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ActiveFeatured | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | Well-equipped everyday family hauler |
| ST-Line | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | Sporty styling with 20-inch wheels |
| Tremor | 2.3L I-4 (3.0L V6 available) | Light off-roading with standard 4WD |
| Platinum | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | Upscale comfort and premium audio |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 400-hp performance |
Powertrain
2026 Explorer Active Performance
2.3L EcoBoost® I-4
300 hp · 310 lb-ft**
Turbocharged and direct-injected, with auto start-stop. Paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic for easy merging around DFW.
Drivetrain
RWD or Intelligent 4WD
Rear-wheel drive with six selectable drive modes is standard. Add Intelligent 4WD with Hill Descent Control for extra traction.
Towing
Up to 5,000 lbs
The Class III Trailer Tow Package is standard, with trailer sway control and 4- and 7-pin connectors.
See the Explorer Active engine and towing specs explained in our walkaround ▶ 0:35
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What comes standard on the 2026 Explorer Active?
The Active includes a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost, a 10-speed automatic, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, a power liftgate, 18-inch aluminum wheels and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+.
What engine does the 2026 Explorer Active have?
It uses a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 rated at 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard and Intelligent 4WD is available.
How much can the 2026 Ford Explorer Active tow?
Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped. The Class III Trailer Tow Package, with trailer sway control and 4- and 7-pin connectors, is standard.
What does the Active Comfort Package include?
The available Active Comfort Package adds features like a power passenger seat, remote start, a heated steering wheel and a universal garage door opener.
Where can I buy a 2026 Ford Explorer Active near Fort Worth?
Five Star Ford North Richland Hills is at 6618 NE Loop 820, North Richland Hills, TX 76180, a short drive from Fort Worth, Hurst, Keller and Haltom City. Browse our Explorer inventory or get pre-approved online.
Ready to Drive the 2026 Explorer Active?
Visit Five Star Ford North Richland Hills to test-drive an Explorer Active, check out all three rows in person, and talk with our team about financing and trade-in options.
Five Star Ford North Richland Hills · 6618 NE Loop 820, North Richland Hills, TX 76180
Sales: (817) 500-0096 · Service: (817) 500-0097 · Get Directions
**Horsepower and torque ratings are manufacturer figures. Towing varies by configuration and requires proper equipment; see dealer for details. Images and video may show optional equipment.
