As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Ford presents the 2026 Explorer Hybrid, a vehicle that seamlessly blends robust performance with exceptional fuel efficiency. This innovative SUV redefines the driving experience, offering an unparalleled combination of power, versatility, and environmental consciousness.
With its advanced hybrid powertrain and sophisticated design, the 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid is poised to redefine the midsize SUV segment. Let’s delve into its key features and explore the many reasons why it’s an exceptional choice for discerning drivers.
Key Features and Specifications
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid is a mid-size SUV that combines the power of a gasoline engine with an electric motor to enhance fuel efficiency. It features a 3.3-liter V6 gasoline engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The hybrid powertrain delivers a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid offers improved fuel efficiency compared to the standard gasoline-powered model. It has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the gasoline-powered Explorer gets 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Performance
Despite its focus on fuel efficiency, the 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid provides adequate performance. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is slightly slower than the gasoline-powered Explorer’s 5.5-second acceleration time. However, the hybrid model offers smoother and quieter acceleration due to the electric motor’s assistance.
Towing Capacity
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is lower than the gasoline-powered Explorer’s 6,500-pound towing capacity. However, the hybrid model is still capable of towing small trailers, boats, or campers.
| Hybrid | Gasoline | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3-liter V6 + electric motor | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 318 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 322 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (EPA-estimated) | 28 mpg city / 26 mpg highway | 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration | 6.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000 pounds | 6,500 pounds |
Interior and Exterior Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid boasts a sleek and rugged exterior design. Its bold grille, sharp headlights, and muscular lines give it a commanding presence on the road. The hybrid model features unique blue accents on the grille, badging, and wheels, distinguishing it from its gas-powered counterpart.
Moving inside, the Explorer Hybrid’s cabin offers a spacious and comfortable environment. The interior is adorned with high-quality materials, including leather seats, soft-touch surfaces, and woodgrain accents. The front seats are supportive and adjustable, providing excellent visibility and ergonomics. The second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers.
The cargo space is generous, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The hands-free liftgate makes loading and unloading effortless.
Technology-wise, the Explorer Hybrid comes equipped with Ford’s latest SYNC 4A infotainment system, featuring a large touchscreen display, voice control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The instrument cluster is digital, providing customizable information and navigation. A panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, enhancing the sense of spaciousness.
Technology and Safety Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid is equipped with an array of advanced technology and safety features designed to enhance the driving experience, ensure occupant safety, and provide seamless connectivity.
The Explorer Hybrid features a user-friendly infotainment system with a large touchscreen display. The system offers intuitive navigation, voice control, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The vehicle also boasts a premium sound system with multiple speakers, providing an immersive audio experience.
Safety Features
In terms of safety, the Explorer Hybrid comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These systems include:
– Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic.
– Lane Keeping System: Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance.
– Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert: Detects vehicles in the driver’s blind spots and alerts them when it’s unsafe to change lanes.
– Automatic Emergency Braking: Applies the brakes automatically if an imminent collision is detected.
– 360-Degree Camera: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering easier.
Performance and Handling
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid delivers a responsive and balanced driving experience. Its advanced hybrid powertrain provides ample power for acceleration and smooth transitions between electric and gasoline modes.
The hybrid model accelerates briskly, reaching 60 mph in under 7 seconds. The electric motor provides instant torque, enhancing responsiveness at low speeds. The transition between electric and gasoline modes is seamless, ensuring a refined driving experience.
The Explorer Hybrid’s braking system is equally impressive, with responsive pedal feel and ample stopping power. The vehicle’s handling is stable and predictable, with minimal body roll during cornering. Compared to the gasoline engine model, the hybrid offers slightly improved acceleration due to the electric motor’s assistance, while maintaining comparable braking and handling capabilities.
Acceleration
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds, while the gasoline engine model takes around 7.2 seconds. The electric motor’s instant torque provides a noticeable boost during initial acceleration.
Braking
The Explorer Hybrid’s braking system features 13-inch front and 12-inch rear rotors, providing strong stopping power. The pedal feel is responsive and consistent, allowing for precise control.
Handling
The Explorer Hybrid’s independent suspension system and electric power steering offer a balanced and stable handling experience. The vehicle corners confidently with minimal body roll, providing a reassuring driving feel.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid is expected to have a starting price of around $40,000. It will be available in four different trim levels: XLT, Limited, Platinum, and ST. The XLT trim comes standard with features such as a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker sound system, and a power liftgate. The Limited trim adds features such as leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and a navigation system. The Platinum trim adds features such as a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker sound system, and a heated and cooled front seats. The ST trim adds features such as a sport-tuned suspension, a 14-speaker sound system, and a unique exterior styling.
Ford is currently offering a number of incentives and promotions on the 2026 Explorer Hybrid. These incentives and promotions can vary depending on the trim level and the location of the dealership. Customers should contact their local Ford dealer for more information on current incentives and promotions.
FAQ Corner
What is the fuel efficiency of the 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid boasts an impressive fuel efficiency rating, delivering an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid have?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, generating a combined output of 318 horsepower.
What are the key safety features of the 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Hybrid comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring.