An Explorer with second-row captain's chairs, multicontour front seats and a 14-speaker B&O system could easily be mistaken for a family luxury SUV. Then you get to the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, 4WD, sport-tuned suspension and red performance brakes. This 2026 Explorer ST is built to do both jobs, and that is what makes it interesting.

Vapor Blue gives the body real presence without needing a loud graphics package. The 21-inch aluminum wheels, black mesh grille, ST badging and quad-tip dual exhaust make the performance intent obvious. More important, the chassis backs up the appearance. The 10-speed automatic keeps the V6 in the power, selectable drive modes let you change the vehicle's character, and 4WD adds confidence when a summer storm turns I-75 or State Road 54 slick.

For a driver moving between Wesley Chapel and New Tampa, the ST can feel composed in traffic without becoming dull once the road opens up. The sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes are not there for decoration. They help a three-row Explorer feel more controlled and connected than the family-SUV shape suggests.

Heated second-row captain's chairs give passengers their own space and make third-row access easier. The third row power-folds when cargo takes priority. Up front, heated and ventilated seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 110V/150W outlet make long days easier. This new Explorer also includes the Parks Ford Lifetime Powertrain Warranty from Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel.

The Sun and Sound Package changes the cabin again. Multicontour front seats add comfort on longer runs toward Dade City or Brooksville, the moonroof with fixed glass and power shade opens up all three rows, and the 14-speaker B&O system gives the cabin a premium audio setup. Ambient lighting and red stitch accents add just enough theater after dark.

BlueCruise is equipped with a 90-day trial for hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. Ford Digital Experience runs through the 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google Maps and the Google Play Store, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available when you want your phone's interface. A 5G modem, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, SiriusXM with 360L and a one-year Ford Connectivity trial handle the connected side.

The 360-degree camera is the practical counterweight to all that performance. It makes the Explorer easier to place in a crowded New Tampa lot, a tighter Land O Lakes driveway or a packed school pickup line. Power-folding heated mirrors, remote start, keyless entry with push-button start and the power liftgate remove friction from the daily routine.

A Class III Trailer Tow Package with Trailer Sway Control gives the ST another job when the weekend calls for a small boat, utility trailer or recreational gear headed toward Zephyrhills. Front and rear skid plate elements add protection underneath.

Florida ownership is where Parks Plus protection earns its place. Paint protection helps preserve the Vapor Blue finish, rain-repellent treatment is useful when weather changes in minutes, and headlight protection adds another layer for highway miles.

This is the Explorer for someone who refuses to make the predictable choice between family space and driver enjoyment. Load the third row on Saturday, flatten it for cargo on Sunday, and enjoy the V6 every mile in between. 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 $500 - Final Days Mega Bonus Cash. Exp. 08/31/2026 Price includes $1,395 dealer added accessories.