The 2026 Ford Explorer in Danville, Kentucky
The 2026 Ford Explorer continues to raise the bar for midsize SUVs—delivering more power, technology, and comfort than ever before. Built to balance family utility with everyday performance, the Explorer fits life in Danville, Kentucky, perfectly. Whether you’re driving to work along Hustonville Road, exploring trails near Herrington Lake, or taking a weekend trip to Lexington, this SUV has the capability, space, and style you need. At Stuart Powell Ford Mazda, located right here in Danville, KY, I’m excited to introduce the next generation of Explorer. For drivers from Nicholasville, Stanford, and Harrodsburg, the 2026 Explorer brings modern design, advanced safety, and Ford’s signature strength—all wrapped in a versatile, family-friendly package.
Rugged Performance Meets Everyday Comfort
The 2026 Ford Explorer is engineered for a confident and powerful driving experience, no matter where your journey takes you. Here are some key specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 (300 hp) or 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (400 hp) |
| Transmission | 10-Speed SelectShift® Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Intelligent 4WD |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped |
| Fuel Economy | Estimated 27 highway MPG (2.3L EcoBoost®) |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Slippery/Snow Sand |
Performance: Power Meets Precision
When I first got behind the wheel of the new Explorer, I immediately felt the difference. The power delivery from the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 was smooth and confident—ideal for Kentucky highways and winding backroads alike. Even when loaded with passengers or towing a trailer toward Lake Cumberland, the Explorer handled it all with poise.
Exterior and Interior: Built to Impress, Inside and Out
The 2026 Ford Explorer turns heads in downtown Danville with its bold new grille, sculpted LED lighting, and commanding stance. Inside, you’ll find a spacious, technology-rich cabin designed to keep every drive relaxing and connected—whether you’re commuting to Nicholasville or heading to the Kentucky Horse Park for the weekend.
Exterior and Interior Highlights:
Redesigned Exterior:
Bold lines, sleek headlights, and modern alloy wheels make a strong impression.
Premium Interior:
Available leather-trimmed seats and soft-touch materials elevate comfort.
Panoramic Vista Roof®:
Fills the cabin with natural light—perfect for scenic drives around Boyle County.
Heated and Ventilated Seats:
Stay comfortable through Kentucky’s changing seasons.
Smart Storage Solutions:
Ample cargo space and under-floor storage keep essentials organized.
Advanced Technology for the Modern Driver
Technology in the 2026 Explorer makes driving through Central Kentucky smarter and simpler. The updated SYNC® 4 infotainment system offers seamless smartphone integration and intuitive controls that make staying connected effortless.
Top Tech Features:
Large 13.2-Inch Touchscreen:
Easy-to-use interface with crisp graphics.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™:
Stay connected without tangled cables.
Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ Assist+:
Includes adaptive cruise control and lane-centering.
12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster:
Displays navigation, safety alerts, and performance info clearly.
B&O® Sound System:
Delivers premium sound throughout the cabin.
Over-the-Air Updates:
Keeps your Explorer’s software current automatically.
Confident, Capable, and Ready for Anything
From towing to family travel, the 2026 Ford Explorer is built to handle whatever your week throws at you. Its balanced chassis, available 4WD system, and selectable drive modes make it a confident companion for both pavement and gravel.
Performance Highlights:
Selectable Drive Modes:
Switch between Eco, Sport, and Trail modes based on terrain.
4WD with Terrain Management Systemâ„¢:
Adjusts power and traction in real time.
Smooth Handling:
Independent suspension delivers a refined yet agile ride.
Towing Confidence:
Up to 5,000 lbs. capacity for trailers, boats, or campers.
Hill Descent Controlâ„¢:
Keeps you steady on steep Kentucky backroads.
Safety That Watches Out for You
The 2026 Explorer puts safety front and center with the latest Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ technology. Every trim comes equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems that make daily commutes and family trips safer and more relaxing.
Peace of Mind Features:
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking:
Helps detect and mitigate potential front-end collisions.
Lane-Keeping System with Road Edge Detection:
Helps keep you centered in your lane, even on unfamiliar roads.
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go:
Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
Evasive Steering Assist:
Provides extra steering support to avoid a collision if needed.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert:
Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and while backing up.
The 2026 Ford Explorer Lineup at Stuart Powell Ford Mazda
At Stuart Powell Ford Mazda in Danville, KY, we’re proud to offer the complete 2026 Explorer lineup, each designed for unique lifestyles and needs. All 2026 Explorer models offer a range of features for every type of driver.
Active:
Powered by a 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. Comes standard with the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 13.2-inch center touchscreen, and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+.
ST-Line:
Shares the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine. This trim offers a sportier look with 20-inch wheels, a black grille, and distinct exterior accents. The interior features ActiveX-trimmed seats with red stitching and a 10-speaker B&O sound system.
Tremor:
An off-road-oriented trim, succeeding the Timberline model. It can be equipped with either the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 or an optional 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Notable features include a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, steel skid plates, and a limited-slip rear differential.
Platinum:
Designed for luxury, this trim features upgraded leather and synthetic suede seating, multicontour massaging front seats, and a 14-speaker B&O sound system. It also includes a panoramic fixed-glass roof and adaptive headlights. Power comes from the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost I-4.
ST:
The performance-focused option, standard with a powerful 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and a sport-tuned suspension. It comes with 21-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and paddle shifters.
Whether you want sporty power, premium luxury, or dependable practicality, there’s an Explorer designed for your life in Kentucky.
2026 Ford Explorer at Stuart Powell Ford Mazda: Your Questions, Answered! (FAQ)
What engines are available in the 2026 Ford Explorer?
+Choose between a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 or a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Does the Explorer have all-wheel drive?
+Yes! The 2026 Explorer offers Intelligent 4WD with a Terrain Management Systemâ„¢ for added confidence on any Kentucky road.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
+When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,600 pounds—ideal for boats, campers, and trailers around Danville.
How many passengers can the Explorer seat?
+The Explorer comfortably seats up to seven with flexible second- and third-row configurations.
What safety features come standard?
+Every Explorer includes Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢, with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
Does Stuart Powell Ford Mazda offer financing or leasing?
+Absolutely! Our finance experts can help you secure the best loan or lease terms to fit your budget and lifestyle.
Can I test drive the 2026 Explorer in Danville, KY?
+Yes—schedule a test drive today at Stuart Powell Ford Mazda and experience the Explorer firsthand.
Where can I service my Ford Explorer near Danville?
+Our Ford-certified service center in Danville, KY, provides expert maintenance and repairs using genuine Ford parts.
Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer at Stuart Powell Ford Mazda
The 2026 Ford Explorer redefines what a family SUV can do—delivering the power, technology, and confidence you expect from America’s favorite midsize SUV. Whether you’re in Danville, Nicholasville, Stanford, or Harrodsburg, this is the SUV designed to handle Kentucky life with ease. Visit Stuart Powell Ford Mazda at 225 S Danville Bypass, Danville, KY, to explore the new Explorer lineup, schedule your test drive, or speak with our finance specialists about the latest Ford incentives. Your next adventure starts here—behind the wheel of the 2026 Ford Explorer.
