Which Ford Explorer Trim Level Offers the Best Value for the Price?
The Ford Explorer is the bestselling three-row SUV in the United States, with a range of trim levels and options to choose from.
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Explorer is the bestselling three-row SUV in the United States.
- The ST-Line trim is the most recommended, offering a sportier appearance and additional features.
- The Explorer offers a range of engines, including a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6.
- All-wheel drive is optional on most trims, but standard on the Tremor trim.
- The Tremor trim offers more off-road capability than any other Explorer trim.
Which Explorer Trim Level Is the Best?
The ST-Line trim is our most recommended Explorer trim level, starting at $46,850. This trim costs more than the base $40,955 Active model, but brings a sportier appearance and additional features.
Inside, it gets a synthetic black leather interior with cloth inserts featuring sporty red stitching. The ST-Line adds desirable tech features, like a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and 360-degree camera with split view.
What Options Are Worth Buying?
The ST-Line is only available with the base engine, a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Ford is unique in the three-row mid-size segment because it offers a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 in certain Explorer trims.
Our favorite ST-Line trim has several options we think you should consider on top of its $46,850 base price. We suggest the optional all-wheel drive system, which forces customers to add the $1450 ST-Line Street Pack, for a total of $3450.
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Premium package | $1350 |
| BlueCruise | $2495 |
| Fixed panoramic glass roof w/power sunshade | $1695 |
What Do You Get In Higher Trim Levels?
If you step up to the new-for-2026 Tremor trim for $51,155, it unlocks more off-road capability than any other Explorer trim. This model rides on 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, and it gets a one-inch suspension lift to provide 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
Heated and ventilated front seats are standard, as are heated rear seats. Buyers who want the a truly over the top off-road Explorer can pay $11,850 more for the Tremor Ultimate package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the starting price of the Ford Explorer?
A: The starting price of the Ford Explorer is $40,955 for the base Active model.
Q: What is the most recommended trim level of the Ford Explorer?
A: The ST-Line trim is the most recommended, offering a sportier appearance and additional features.
Q: What is the difference between the Tremor and Platinum trims?
A: The Tremor trim offers more off-road capability, while the Platinum trim offers more upscale touches, such as quilted leather upholstery and chrome interior accents.
