2026 Ford Explorer Platinum vs 2026 Ford Explorer ST
| 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum | 2026 Ford Explorer ST |
Engine |
|
| 2.3L Turbocharged I-4 | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 |
Horsepower |
|
| 300 hp | 400 hp |
MPG (City/Highway) |
|
| 20/29 * | 18/25 * |
Seat Upholstery |
|
| Leather Seating Surfaces with Miko® Micro-Perforated Inserts | ActiveX™ Seating Material with Miko® Inserts, Red Stitching and ST Logo |
Multicontour Front Seats with Active Motion |
|
| Standard | Optional |
2026 Ford Explorer Platinum vs 2026 Ford Explorer ST
Serving Hudson, WI
The 2026 Ford Explorer remains one of America’s most versatile three-row SUVs, offering trim levels tailored to different driving styles. If you’re deciding between the Explorer Platinum and the Explorer ST, you’ll find two premium models that excel in different ways. The Platinum prioritizes refined luxury, premium comfort, and everyday sophistication, while the ST is engineered for drivers who crave exhilarating performance and athletic handling.
At Hudson Ford, our team helps drivers compare every Explorer trim to find the model that best fits their lifestyle. Whether you’re commuting, taking family road trips, or enjoying weekend adventures, both the Platinum and ST deliver the capability, technology, and versatility expected from a Ford SUV.
How Do the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum and Explorer ST Compare in Performance?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine. It produces 300 horsepower, delivering confident acceleration while emphasizing ride comfort. Its adaptive suspension enhances stability and absorbs road imperfections, making it ideal for long highway drives and everyday commuting.
The 2026 Ford Explorer ST is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that raises performance with 400 horsepower. A sport-tuned suspension, sharper steering, paddle shifters, and available performance brakes provide quicker responses and a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts seeking extra excitement behind the wheel.
At Hudson Ford, you can compare both models side by side and experience their unique driving dynamics during a test drive.
What Exterior Design Differences Set the Explorer Platinum and ST Apart?
Both Explorer models feature Ford’s bold SUV styling, aerodynamic profile, sculpted body lines, and commanding front fascia. However, each trim has its own distinctive personality.
The Explorer Platinum emphasizes luxury with elegant chrome accents, premium LED lighting, upscale wheel designs, and refined exterior finishes.
The Explorer ST embraces a sportier aesthetic with exclusive ST badging, black exterior accents, aggressive front and rear fascias, and performance-inspired styling cues that create a more athletic appearance.
Whether your preference is sophisticated luxury or aggressive performance styling, Hudson Ford offers multiple Explorer configurations to match your taste.
Which Interior Features and Technology Come Standard?
Inside, both SUVs provide spacious three-row seating, advanced connectivity, and premium craftsmanship.
The Explorer Platinum focuses on comfort with:
- Leather-trimmed seating with premium stitching
- Heated first- and second-row seats
- Enhanced cabin sound insulation
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- SYNC® 4 infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Ford Co-Pilot360™ driver-assist technologies
The Explorer ST builds upon many of these premium amenities while adding performance-focused enhancements such as:
- Sport front seats
- Paddle shifters
- Sport steering wheel
- Driver-focused interior accents
- Performance-inspired controls
At Hudson Ford, our product specialists can demonstrate each technology feature and help you compare available options.
Which Explorer Trim Is Better for Daily Driving?
Both trims deliver impressive versatility, but the ideal choice depends on your priorities.
The Explorer Platinum is perfect for drivers seeking luxury, comfort, advanced technology, and a refined driving experience for commuting, family travel, and everyday use.
The Explorer ST is designed for drivers who enjoy stronger acceleration, sharper handling, and sport-inspired styling without sacrificing the practicality of a three-row SUV.
No matter which trim you choose, Hudson Ford can help you select the Explorer that aligns with your driving preferences and lifestyle.
Why Choose Hudson Ford for Your New Ford Explorer?
Shopping for a new Ford Explorer is about more than selecting a trim level—it’s about choosing a dealership committed to your ownership experience.
Drivers choose Hudson Ford because we offer:
- A wide selection of new Ford Explorer models
- Competitive lease and financing solutions
- Knowledgeable Ford product specialists
- Transparent, customer-focused sales experience
- Certified Ford service technicians
- Genuine Ford OEM parts and accessories
From your initial comparison through long-term vehicle maintenance, Hudson Ford is dedicated to providing exceptional customer care.
Where Can You Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum or ST?
The best way to determine whether the Explorer Platinum or Explorer ST is right for you is to experience both in person.
Visit Hudson Ford to compare trim levels, explore available inventory, review current financing and lease offers, and schedule a personalized test drive with our knowledgeable team.
Images are for illustration purposes only.
* EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.