Finding Your Perfect Match: A Guide to 2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

When you’re searching for a 2026 Ford Explorer for sale, understanding the differences between trim levels can make all the difference in your buying decision. At Downtown Ford, your trusted Ford dealership in Charleston, WV, we’re here to help you navigate the five distinct personalities of this versatile three-row SUV. Whether you’re looking for a Ford Explorer for sale in Charleston for family adventures or daily commuting, there’s a configuration that’s just right for you.

Understanding the 2026 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

The 2026 model year brings five compelling options to choose from: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum. Each trim has been designed with a specific driver in mind, from the adventure-seeker to the luxury enthusiast.

Active: The Well-Rounded Family Choice

The Active trim serves as the foundation of the Explorer lineup, but don’t let “base model” fool you—this SUV comes impressively equipped right out of the gate. Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.

What makes the Active stand out is its comprehensive standard equipment list. You’ll enjoy the convenience of a power liftgate, keyless entry, and heated power-adjustable front seats. The cabin features a modern digital instrument cluster and a generous 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In technology, making navigation and voice commands seamless. With standard seven-passenger seating and three-zone climate control, this trim is built for families who need space and comfort without breaking the bank.

Safety is a priority across all Explorer models, and the Active includes Ford’s Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite. This comprehensive package provides forward collision warning with automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centering assistance, and blind-spot monitoring—features that many competitors charge extra for.

For those wanting a bit more comfort, the Active Comfort package adds remote start, upgraded synthetic leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel.

ST-Line: Sport-Inspired Style

If you want your Explorer to turn heads while maintaining daily practicality, the ST-Line delivers athletic aesthetics without the performance premium. This trim adds visual punch with 20-inch wheels, a distinctive black grille, darkened lighting elements, and black lower-body cladding that gives the SUV an aggressive stance.

Inside, you’ll find sport-styled black synthetic leather seats with cloth inserts and red stitching that reinforce the performance theme. The ST-Line also upgrades the audio experience with a 10-speaker B&O sound system and adds practical features like front and side parking sensors plus a surround-view camera system.

Tech enthusiasts will appreciate the enhanced adaptive cruise control that can read traffic signs and adjust speed accordingly, plus access to BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving (subscription required). The optional Premium package elevates comfort with massaging front seats, heated second-row seats, and power-folding third-row seats.

Tremor: Built for Off-Road Adventures

For those who venture beyond paved roads, the Tremor transforms the Explorer into a capable trail companion. This trim features a suspension raised by one inch for improved ground clearance, all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch wheels, and a limited-slip rear differential to maximize traction when conditions get challenging.

The Tremor doesn’t sacrifice power for capability—it can be equipped with the optional turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Distinctive touches include grille-mounted auxiliary lights, protective steel skid plates, and orange accent stitching inside.

Standard features include heated and ventilated front seats plus heated second-row seats. The Tremor Convenience package adds ambient lighting and an auto-dimming mirror, while the Ultimate package includes a twin-panel sunroof, BlueCruise capability, and a premium 14-speaker B&O sound system.

ST: Maximum Performance

The ST trim is where the Explorer unleashes its full potential. This performance-oriented model makes the powerful 400-horsepower V6 standard and pairs it with 21-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded front brakes for confident stopping power.

Everything from the ST-Line comes standard, but the ST adds paddle shifters for manual gear control, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Instead of a bench, the ST features heated second-row captain’s chairs for a more premium six-passenger configuration. The 14-speaker B&O sound system ensures every drive has a phenomenal soundtrack.

This is the trim for drivers who prioritize spirited driving dynamics while still needing the practicality of three-row seating.

Platinum: Luxury Redefined

The Platinum trim represents the pinnacle of Explorer refinement. Interestingly, it’s priced below the performance-focused ST, making it an excellent value for those who prioritize luxury over sport. While the V6 engine is optional rather than standard, most luxury-minded buyers will want that smooth, powerful upgrade.

The Platinum includes every feature from the ST-Line Premium package, then adds its own touches: a twin-panel sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, adaptive headlights swivel through corners for better visibility, and special trim details throughout create an upscale ambiance. Leather upholstery with synthetic suede inserts provides a premium feel, while heated second-row captain’s chairs ensure passenger comfort.

Like the ST, the Platinum includes the excellent 14-speaker B&O sound system and rides on attractive 20-inch wheels.

Which Trim Is Right for You?

Choosing among the 2026 Ford Explorer trim levels ultimately depends on how you’ll use your vehicle:

Choose Active if you need a well-equipped family SUV with modern technology and comprehensive safety features at an accessible price point.

Choose ST-Line if you want sporty styling and enhanced technology features without committing to the ST’s performance focus or price.

Choose Tremor if your adventures take you off the beaten path and you need genuine off-road capability with family-friendly comfort.

Choose ST if driving dynamics matter most and you want the most powerful, performance-oriented Explorer available.

Choose Platinum if luxury appointments and refined comfort are your top priorities, and you appreciate premium materials and convenience features.

Visit Downtown Ford Today

Ready to experience these impressive SUVs in person? Stop by Downtown Ford, where our knowledgeable team can help you explore each trim level and find the perfect 2026 Ford Explorer for sale that matches your lifestyle and budget. We’re committed to making your car-buying experience as smooth and enjoyable as the ride quality you’ll experience in your new Explorer.

Whether you’re drawn to the versatility of the Active, the style of the ST-Line, the adventure-ready Tremor, the performance of the ST, or the luxury of the Platinum, there’s never been a better time to discover what makes the 2026 Ford Explorer one of the most compelling choices in the three-row SUV segment.

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