A premium SUV is often judged by its biggest features. This new 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum RWD is more impressive in the moments between them: leaving the driveway, settling into traffic, changing the passenger count and turning a weekday trip into a weekend plan. Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat gives it a strong presence around Wesley Chapel and Tampa, while 20-inch Nickel-painted wheels keep the look polished.

The first transition happens before the engine starts. Remote start can begin preparing the cabin for Florida heat, the illuminated keyless-entry keypad offers another way in and power-folding mirrors help when space is tight. Parks Plus begins protecting the experience with paint protection, rain repellent and headlight protection.

Inside, Mojave Dusk leather-trimmed seating changes the mood. Multicontour front seats with Active Motion, heating and ventilation give the front row a more tailored place to settle in. A heated steering wheel, ambient lighting and the panoramic moonroof with fixed glass and a power shade add comfort without making the cabin feel busy.

Comfort then passes to the rest of the vehicle. Heated second-row seats and USB-C ports in every row keep passengers considered beyond the front seats. When cargo takes priority, the PowerFold third row lowers quickly. Parks Plus interior protection, cabin sanitizer and antimicrobial treatment help the cabin stay ready for family use.

The next handoff is from the driver to the technology. A 12.3-inch digital cluster keeps vehicle information directly ahead, while the 13.2-inch touchscreen handles entertainment, settings and connected features. Ford Digital Experience adds Google Maps and compatible apps, and the 14-speaker B&O system gives all three rows premium sound.

BlueCruise includes a one-year plus 90-day plan for compatible hands-free highway driving support. Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 and a 360-degree camera help reduce effort in Tampa traffic, crowded parking areas and tighter garages around New Tampa or Lutz.

Ford's 2.3L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic provide responsive power for I-75 merging, passing and longer Florida drives. The EPA estimates 24 MPG combined, 20 MPG city and 29 MPG highway, giving this Explorer Platinum practical efficiency without losing confident EcoBoost response.

When the week gives way to the weekend, the Class III Trailer Tow Package provides a factory foundation for compatible recreational equipment. Trailer Sway Control, skid-plate elements, selectable drive modes and Hill Start Assist add useful capability beyond Land O' Lakes, Odessa or Zephyrhills.

Every new Ford Explorer at Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel includes our Lifetime Powertrain Warranty. Parks Plus also adds nitrogen tire service, anti-theft VIN etching, stolen-vehicle assistance, roadside assistance and collision loyalty benefits.

Adaptive LED headlights, satin roof rails and rear privacy glass complete the Platinum design. For shoppers searching for a new 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum near Tampa, this Rapid Red RWD model stands out because every part of the trip connects smoothly to the next: entry, comfort, technology, highway travel, cargo flexibility and towing. Not all customers may qualify for all rebates. Price includes: $1000 - SSE Down Payment Assistance. Exp. 08/31/2026 $3000 - Retail Customer Cash. Exp. 09/30/2026 Price includes $1,395 dealer added accessories.