2027 Ford Explorer: Trims, Specs, and What's New
The 2027 Ford Explorer carries a 13.2-inch touchscreen, native Google Maps, and a 5G modem as standard equipment on every trim. That tech stack represents a measurable upgrade over the connectivity found in the prior generation. This page covers every trim, spec, and key change, and links directly to current Explorer inventory at Arrow Ford.
What's New for 2027
The single largest change for 2027 is the standard 13.2-inch center touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on every trim level. Every Explorer now ships with Google Maps native navigation, Google Assistant voice controls, and a 5G modem that supports a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices across a 50-foot range. That means no subscription workaround or add-on hardware needed to get turn-by-turn navigation out of the driveway.
The Ford Connectivity Package, which bundles in-vehicle streaming, parked games, and karaoke, is included for the first year on all trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. The B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen ships as the base audio setup, with an upgrade path to a 14-speaker 980W configuration.
On the capability side, the Tremor trim receives standard Intelligent 4WD and lifts ground clearance to 8.7 inches, which is the highest in the Explorer lineup for 2027. The Tremor's approach angle reaches 24.1 degrees, compared to 19.7 degrees on the Active and ST-Line.
Trim Lineup
The 2027 Explorer runs five trims. Each step up adds content rather than simply changing cosmetics.
Active
The entry point. Standard equipment includes the 13.2-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, Ford Co-Pilot360, adaptive cruise control, 360-degree camera, and 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels. RWD is standard; Intelligent 4WD is available.
ST-Line
Adds sport styling cues over the Active, including 20-inch Ebony-painted machined aluminum wheels standard, with an available 21-inch Magnetite-painted wheel option. Shares the same 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 as the Active and offers the same AWD upgrade path.
Tremor
The trail-oriented trim. Standard Intelligent 4WD, 8.7-inch ground clearance, 18-inch High Gloss Ebony Black-painted wheels with Electric Spice accents, and a 24.1-degree approach angle. Seating drops to 6 in the Tremor configuration. The optional 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is available here.
ST
The performance trim. The 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is standard, producing up to 400 hp in federal-states configurations and 415 lb-ft of torque. Rides on 21-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels with a 21-inch Gloss Black option. Ground clearance is 7.8 inches.
Platinum
The flagship. Available with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6, 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted aluminum wheels standard, and the highest ground clearance of any non-Tremor trim at 8.3 inches. The Platinum's taller 70.2-inch roofline is the tallest of the non-Tremor trims. Optional moonroof affects headroom in rows one and two.
Performance & Powertrain
| Engine / Configuration | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain | Fuel Tank | EPA Fuel Economy | Max Towing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm | 10-speed automatic | RWD standard; Intelligent 4WD available | 17.9 gal | 20 city / 27 hwy / 24 combined MPG (RWD) | Up to 5,300 lbs |
| 3.0L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6 | 400 hp in federal-states configurations | 415 lb-ft | 10-speed automatic | RWD standard on ST and Platinum; Intelligent 4WD available; Tremor uses standard 4WD | 20.2 gal | 18 city / 25 hwy / 22 combined MPG (RWD) | Up to 5,300 lbs |
The 2.3L EcoBoost is standard on Active, ST-Line, and base Tremor configurations. The 3.0L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6 is standard on ST and available on Tremor and Platinum. The Tremor is the only Explorer trim that comes exclusively with Intelligent 4WD from the factory.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo
Seven-passenger seating is standard across Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. The Tremor seats six. Interior dimensions give front-row occupants 43 inches of maximum legroom and 40.7 inches of headroom. Row two provides 37.5 inches of legroom on Active and ST-Line (37.0 on ST, Platinum, and Tremor). Third-row legroom is 31.8 inches.
Cargo behind the third row measures 16.3 cubic feet, a usable number for a seven-seat SUV. Fold both rear rows and the maximum cargo volume reaches 85.8 cubic feet on Active and ST-Line, or 85.3 cubic feet on ST, Platinum, and Tremor. The second-row fold position opens up 46 cubic feet.
The power liftgate opens and closes via the key fob, and the 198.7-inch overall length gives the Explorer a footprint that parks realistically in standard garage bays.
Technology & Infotainment
Every 2027 Explorer ships with the 13.2-inch center touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Native Google Maps handles navigation without a phone tether. Google Assistant responds to voice commands for hands-free control of navigation, calls, and media. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are both standard.
The 5G modem connects up to 10 devices simultaneously at distances up to 50 feet, functioning as a mobile hotspot. The included Ford Connectivity Package (one year complimentary) adds in-vehicle streaming and parked-mode entertainment including games and karaoke.
Audio starts with the B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. An upgrade to the 14-speaker 980-watt B&O system is available for buyers who prioritize cabin sound quality.
AM/FM radio is standard. The 10-speed automatic transmission integrates with the digital cluster to display shift points and drive-mode data.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology is standard on every 2027 Explorer trim. The suite includes adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. Child door locks and LATCH child seat anchors are also standard.
Ford Co-Pilot360 features explained
The 360-degree camera is a meaningful standard inclusion at the Active trim level, as this feature was previously an upgrade cost on many competitive three-row SUVs. Buyers in Abilene shopping for a family hauler with a genuine safety foundation can count on Co-Pilot360 being present regardless of which trim they select.
The Tremor's 24.1-degree approach angle and 8.7-inch ground clearance also reduce the risk of undercarriage contact on rough terrain, which is a functional safety characteristic for West Texas driving conditions.
Who It's For / vs. the Prior Year
The 2027 Explorer makes the most sense for buyers who want three-row space without moving up to a full-size SUV. The 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity puts it in contention with larger trucks-based alternatives, while the 198.7-inch length keeps it manageable in daily use.
Compared to the prior Explorer generation, the 2027's most meaningful upgrades are the standard 13.2-inch touchscreen (replacing a smaller screen that required a package to upgrade), native Google Maps on all trims, and the 5G modem replacing a slower connectivity module. Buyers who previously had to step up a trim or two to get navigation and wireless smartphone integration can now get those features from the Active level.
The Tremor trim is the right choice for Abilene-area buyers who need genuine off-pavement capability alongside third-row seating. The ST is the choice for those who want performance first. The Platinum suits buyers who prioritize a refined, tech-loaded cabin.
See the 2027 Explorer at Arrow Ford in Abilene
Arrow Ford carries the 2027 Explorer across its trim lineup. Whether you want the trail-ready Tremor, the performance-focused ST, or the tech-loaded Active as a starting point, current inventory is available to browse online or configure in person at the Abilene location. The Explorer's standard Co-Pilot360 suite, 13.2-inch touchscreen, and up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space make it one of the most complete three-row options in the segment right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2027 Ford Explorer come with?
The standard engine is a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 producing 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, producing up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, is standard on the ST and available on the Tremor and Platinum.
How many people does the 2027 Ford Explorer seat?
Seven passengers on the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trims. The Tremor seats six.
What is the cargo space in the 2027 Ford Explorer?
Cargo behind the third row is 16.3 cubic feet. With both rear rows folded, maximum cargo volume reaches 85.8 cubic feet on the Active and ST-Line.
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on every 2027 Explorer trim.
What is the towing capacity of the 2027 Ford Explorer?
The 2027 Explorer tows up to 5,300 lbs when properly equipped.
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer come with navigation?
Yes. Native Google Maps navigation is standard on all 2027 Explorer trims through the 13.2-inch touchscreen, with no phone connection required.
What is the fuel economy of the 2027 Ford Explorer?
The 2.3L EcoBoost in RWD configuration is EPA-rated at 20 city / 27 highway / 24 combined mpg.
Which 2027 Explorer trim is best for off-road use?
The Tremor. It comes standard with Intelligent 4WD, carries 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and reaches a 24.1-degree approach angle, the highest off-road geometry in the Explorer lineup.
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