2027 vs. 2026 Ford Explorer

How Do the 2027 and 2026 Ford Explorer Compare in Performance?

There are two primary engine choices available for the 2026 Ford Explorer.

The first is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The alternative is a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 producing 400 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

Both engines are described as being available with rear-wheel drive or intelligent four-wheel drive.

The 2027 Explorer continues with these same two engine choices, while the Platinum can also be paired with the twin-turbo V6 through the Ultimate package.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare available Explorer powertrains and drivetrain configurations.

How Much Horsepower Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Have?

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder generates 300 horsepower, while the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 produces 400 horsepower.

These outputs are shared across both the 2026 and 2027 Explorer configurations.

That means many of the most noticeable 2027 changes are found in packages, styling, and feature availability rather than a complete powertrain overhaul.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers compare which Explorer trims are available with each engine.

Is Four-Wheel Drive Available on Both the 2026 and 2027 Ford Explorer?

Yes. Intelligent four-wheel drive is available across both engine choices and model years.

Rear-wheel drive is also available.

Four-wheel drive can help support traction in changing road conditions, but it does not replace appropriate tires, safe speeds, increased following distance, or attentive driving.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare rear-wheel drive and intelligent four-wheel drive Explorer configurations.

What Is New With the 2027 Ford Explorer Platinum?

One notable change in 2027 is the availability of the Ultimate package for the Explorer Platinum.

The Ultimate package allows the 2027 Explorer Platinum to be equipped with a powerful twin-turbocharged V6.

This gives Platinum shoppers another performance-oriented option while retaining the trim’s premium positioning.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers compare the standard Platinum configuration with models equipped with the Ultimate package.

What Is the 2027 Ford Explorer ST Sinister Package?

The Sinister package is a new appearance package offered exclusively on the 2027 Explorer ST.

It adds dark exterior styling elements, including 21-inch black wheels and black badging.

The package can also be configured without roof rails, resulting in a cleaner, sleeker exterior profile.

For shoppers who prefer a darker and more performance-focused appearance, the Sinister package creates a distinct visual identity within the Explorer lineup.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers explore available 2027 Explorer ST models and package configurations.

Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Offer a Black Roof?

Yes. The 2027 Explorer ST-Line and ST are available for the first time with a two-tone exterior featuring a black roof.

This gives both trims another way to create a more distinctive exterior appearance.

The rest of the Explorer’s overall design remains familiar, with a commanding stance and sculpted sides that add an athletic character.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare available two-tone Explorer configurations.

What New Colors Are Available on the 2027 Ford Explorer?

The 2027 Explorer lineup adds Ruby Red Metallic and Avalanche Gray as two new exterior color options.

These new choices join the broader Explorer color palette while giving shoppers additional ways to personalize their SUV.

Aside from the new colors, package-specific appearance changes, and selected wheel updates, the overall Explorer design remains largely consistent with the 2026 model.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers review current 2027 Explorer exterior color availability.

What Is Included With the 2027 Explorer Tremor Sun & Sound Package?

The Sun & Sound package is a new available option for the 2027 Explorer Tremor.

This package adds features such as a more advanced sound system and massaging front seats.

The package gives Tremor shoppers another way to combine the trim’s distinctive character with additional comfort and entertainment features.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare Tremor models with and without the Sun & Sound package.

What Technology Do the 2026 and 2027 Ford Explorer Share?

Both model years share many of the same digital and convenience features.

These include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 13.2-inch touchscreen, Ford Digital Experience system, and wireless smartphone app connectivity.

The shared technology means drivers considering either model year can expect a modern digital cabin.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare the technology included on individual Explorer trims and packages.

What Comfort Features Are Available in Both Explorer Model Years?

Features such as second-row captain’s chairs, a Vista Roof, and synthetic or premium leather upholstery are shared across the 2026 and 2027 Explorer lineups.

Specific equipment varies by trim and package, so customers should review the exact vehicle they are considering.

For families and commuters traveling throughout western Wisconsin and the Twin Cities region, these features can add comfort and flexibility for both daily driving and longer trips.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers compare seating and comfort features across Explorer trims.

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer Better for Drivers Who Want More Customization?

Compared to previous years, the 2027 Explorer offers more opportunities for visual and feature personalization.

The Sinister package adds a darker appearance to the ST; the ST and ST-Line gain an available black roof, the Tremor gains the Sun & Sound package, and the Platinum offers the Ultimate package.

Ruby Red Metallic and Avalanche Gray also expand the exterior color selection.

The 2026 model still provides the same core Explorer design and many of the same technology features, so the better choice depends on whether the newer package combinations matter to the shopper.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help drivers compare the available package combinations for both model years.

Should You Choose the 2027 or 2026 Ford Explorer?

The 2026 Ford Explorer may appeal to shoppers who are satisfied with the established trim lineup, shared engine choices, and technology introduced through the earlier refresh.

The 2027 Ford Explorer may be the stronger fit for shoppers who want the newest appearance packages, additional exterior colors, the Platinum Ultimate package, Tremor Sun & Sound package, or ST Sinister package.

Because the two model years share many of the same core powertrains and cabin technologies, package availability and design preferences may play a major role in the decision.

Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare available 2026 and 2027 Explorer models side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 vs. 2026 Ford Explorer

Q: What Is the Biggest Difference Between the 2027 and 2026 Ford Explorer?

A: The biggest 2027 changes are new package options, including the ST Sinister package, Tremor Sun & Sound package, and Platinum Ultimate package, along with new exterior colors and available black-roof styling. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare these updates with those of the 2026 Explorer.

Q: Do the 2027 and 2026 Ford Explorer Have the Same Engines?

A: Yes. Both model years offer a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 producing 400 horsepower. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare engine availability by trim.

Q: How Much Horsepower Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Have?

A: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers 300 horsepower, while the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 provides 400 horsepower. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers compare available powertrains.

Q: What Is the 2027 Ford Explorer ST Sinister Package?

A: The Sinister package adds dark exterior styling to the 2027 Explorer ST, including 21-inch black wheels, black badging, and an available roof-rail-free design. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers explore available ST Sinister package configurations.

Q: What Is the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor Sun & Sound Package?

A: The Sun & Sound package is a new Tremor option that adds features including an upgraded sound system and massaging front seats. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare Tremor package availability.

Q: What Is New on the 2027 Ford Explorer Platinum?

A: The 2027 Explorer Platinum gains an available Ultimate package, which offers access to the twin-turbo V6 powertrain. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers compare Platinum configurations.

Q: What New Colors Are Available on the 2027 Ford Explorer?

A: Ruby Red Metallic and Avalanche Gray are added as new exterior colors for 2027. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers review available Explorer color combinations.

Q: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Offer a Black Roof?

A: Yes. The 2027 Explorer ST-Line and ST are available with a two-tone exterior featuring a black roof. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help customers explore available two-tone configurations.

Q: What Technology Is Shared by the 2026 and 2027 Ford Explorer?

A: Both model years offer features such as a 12.3-inch digital cluster, 13.2-inch touchscreen, Ford Digital Experience, wireless smartphone connectivity, second-row captain’s chairs, and available Vista Roof. Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, can help shoppers compare equipment by trim.

Q: Where Can I Compare the 2027 and 2026 Ford Explorer Near the Twin Cities?

A: Drivers from Hudson, River Falls, New Richmond, Stillwater, Woodbury, and surrounding Wisconsin and Minnesota communities can contact Hudson Ford in Hudson, WI, to explore available 2026 and 2027 Explorer models and arrange test drives based on vehicle availability.