2026 Ford Explorer
The 2026 Ford Explorer continues its legacy as one of America’s most trusted family SUVs now offering smarter tech, stronger performance, and even more everyday versatility. Designed for the modern driver, the new Explorer delivers everything from confident power to refined comfort, making it a top pick for families and adventurers across Monroe County.
Whether you’re commuting through Downtown Monroe, heading toward Dundee, or taking a weekend drive to Toledo or the Irish Hills, the Explorer is built to fit every part of Michigan life.
At Friendly Ford, we’re proud to introduce the latest Explorer, a reimagined SUV that perfectly blends style, capability, and cutting-edge technology for drivers from Flat Rock, Temperance, and the greater Detroit area.
Power and Precision for Every Drive
| 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 5,600 lbs when properly equipped |
| Fuel Economy | Estimated 27 MPG highway (2.3L EcoBoost®) |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery/Snow, and Sand |
When I first got behind the wheel of the 2026 Ford Explorer, what stood out most was how effortlessly it balanced smooth power with sharp handling. The available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 feels commanding whether you’re merging onto I-75 or cruising along the scenic backroads near Lake Erie. The 10-speed transmission shifts with precision, keeping every drive smooth and confident perfect for Michigan’s changing seasons and road conditions.
Sophisticated Design, Inside and Out
The 2026 Explorer turns heads wherever it goes in Monroe. With its newly refined front grille, sculpted LED lighting, and confident stance, it’s both rugged and refined exactly what I love and I am sure drivers across Southeast Michigan are looking for this. Inside, Ford’s attention to detail is unmistakable. The spacious, quiet cabin feels premium and practical, offering comfort that’s ideal for families on the go.
Interior and Exterior Highlights
- Redesigned Exterior:
Sleek lines and aerodynamic touches for a bold, modern look. - Premium Cabin Materials:
Available leather seating and soft-touch surfaces. - Panoramic Vista Roof®:
Bring in the Michigan sky on every drive. - Heated and Ventilated Front Seats:
Stay comfortable year-round, no matter the weather. - Ample Cargo Space:
Perfect for groceries, sports gear, or weekend trips to the lake.
From the driver’s seat, everything feels natural quiet, roomy, and ready for long drives down Telegraph Road or spontaneous road trips across the Great Lakes region.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Every Journey
The 2026 Explorer kept me connected and in control with Ford’s most advanced tech yet. The updated SYNC® 4 infotainment system and digital displays put everything you need right at your fingertips intuitive, fast, and distraction-free.
Top Tech Features Include
13.2-Inch Touchscreen with customizable menus and crisp graphics
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster with navigation and safety alerts
Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering
B&O® Premium Sound System for crystal-clear audio
Over-the-Air Updates to keep your Explorer running at its best
It’s the kind of technology that makes life simpler ideal for busy families around Monroe, Detroit, and Toledo who rely on smart features every day.
Performance That Fits Michigan Lifestyles
From towing a camper up north to navigating snowy Monroe streets, the Explorer is built for Michigan living. It adapts instantly to your environment, providing confident traction and responsive handling in any condition.
Performance Highlights
- Selectable Drive Modes for terrain and weather versatility
- Intelligent 4WD System for enhanced grip during Michigan winter
- Independent Suspension that balances comfort and control
- Towing Capacity up to 5,600 lbs. when properly equipped
- Hill Descent Control™ for added confidence on steep or slick surfaces
Driving the Explorer through Monroe County, I could feel how planted and composed it stays, whether on city streets or country roads.
Safety You Can Count On
Ford continues to set the bar high with its advanced Co-Pilot360™ safety suite. Every 2026 Explorer includes cutting-edge driver-assist features that protect you from the unexpected especially useful for Michigan’s unpredictable traffic and weather.
Key Safety Features
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane-Keeping System with Road Edge Detection
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Rear View Camera with Split-View
From busy Detroit freeways to tight downtown Monroe intersections, these systems help ensure peace of mind wherever you go.
2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
At Friendly Ford in Monroe, you’ll find every 2026 Ford Explorer trim each designed for a specific kind of driver:
Active
Well-equipped with SYNC® 4, Co-Pilot360 Assist+, and 13.2-inch touchscreen.
ST-Line
Sporty exterior design, red-stitched seats, and 20-inch wheels.
Tremor
Trail-ready with off-road suspension, skid plates, and optional 400-hp V6.
Platinum
Trail-ready with off-road suspension, skid plates, and optional 400-hp V6.
ST
Performance-focused with 400-hp V6, sport suspension, and paddle shifters.
Each trim brings its own personality from refined daily driver to adventurous explorer.
Your Questions, Answered
When will the 2026 Ford Explorer arrive at Friendly Ford?
The new Explorer is expected soon! Contact Friendly Ford of Monroe for updates on arrival and availability.
What engine options are available?
Choose between a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 or a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6, both paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic.
Does it offer four-wheel drive?
Yes, the available Intelligent 4WD system enhances traction in rain, snow, and ice.
How much can it tow?
When properly equipped, the 2026 Explorer tows up to 5,600 pounds.
How many passengers can it seat?
The Explorer accommodates up to seven passengers comfortably.
What safety features are included?
Every Explorer includes Ford Co-Pilot360™, offering adaptive cruise control, blind spot alerts, lane-keeping assist, and more.
Can I pre-order or test drive the 2026 Explorer?
Absolutely! You can pre-order or schedule your test drive at Friendly Ford in Monroe, Michigan today.
Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer at Friendly Ford in Monroe, MI
The 2026 Ford Explorer redefines versatility blending performance, comfort, and technology for families and adventurers alike. Whether you’re commuting through Flat Rock, heading up to Detroit, or exploring the Toledo Metroparks, this SUV is ready for the journey ahead. Visit Friendly Ford in Monroe, Michigan, to explore the full 2026 Explorer lineup, schedule your test drive, and see why Ford’s most popular SUV continues to lead the pack.
Friendly Ford, Inc.
2800 N. Telegraph, Monroe, MI 48162
Contact UsHours
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| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 6:00PM |
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| Sunday | Closed |