The 2027 Ford Explorer Active serves as the practical baseline with a 300 hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine, the ST-Line adds aggressive blacked-out visual styling with 20-inch wheels, and the ST delivers maximum athletic performance via a 400 hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine. All three configurations seat up to seven passengers and offer a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, making your decision a balance of budget, visual aesthetic, and daily performance needs.
Choosing the right three-row SUV requires looking closely at how your family travels every day. For routine carpool routes, long highway drives, or weekend escapes to Medina Lake, each trim level offers a distinct personality:
- 2027 Ford Explorer Active: Designed for core daily functionality, featuring standard rear-wheel drive, durable cloth or available ActiveX® seating, 18-inch wheels, and the complete Ford Digital Experience software system.
- 2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Tailored for buyers who want bold performance styling without upgrading to a larger engine, equipping 20-inch Ebony-painted aluminum wheels, dark exterior accents, red interior contrast stitching, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
- 2027 Ford Explorer ST: Engineered for drivers seeking dynamic driving engagement, boasting a sport-tuned suspension, quad exhaust tips, available 21-inch wheels, high-performance braking components, and an available appearance package.
Families hauling watersports gear out toward Lakehills will appreciate that every trim in this comparison delivers real capability without sacrificing interior volume. To experience how these cabin layouts feel in person, plan a test drive through our Hondo showroom location or give our team a quick call to check current vehicle availability.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Main Differences in Performance and Horsepower Across Explorer Trims?
- What Interior Seating Materials and Third-Row Legroom Does Each Trim Offer?
- What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity and Standard Safety Tech on the 2027 Explorer?
- What Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Cost, Including Packages and Destination Fees?
- Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Ford Explorer Lineup
- Find Your Ideal 2027 Ford Explorer at a Local Ford Dealership
What Are the Main Differences in Performance and Horsepower Across Explorer Trims?
Under the hood, the 2027 Explorer ST boasts a powerful 400 hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, outpacing the 300 hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engines found in the Active and ST-Line trims. Every powertrain option connects to a calibrated 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission with standard rear-wheel drive or available intelligent four-wheel drive.
Drivers navigating the limestone road transitions and unpaved driveway entrances around Dunlay often ask how the available four-wheel-drive systems handle changing road surfaces. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost® setup in the Active and ST-Line provides strong low-end torque for quick acceleration away from stoplights and easy passing on rural two-lane highways. In states with specific 50-state emissions compliance equipment installed, models equipped with the 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 carry a rated output of 385 hp, while maintaining standard national ratings of 400 hp in non-restricted markets.
For buyers seeking maximum acceleration and cornering stability, the ST adds a specialized sport suspension tuning package, stiffer anti-roll bars, and performance-calibrated electric power-assisted steering. That dynamic engineering turns routine highway merging into a genuine thrill without compromising ride composure over expansion joints. Those looking for excellent capability at an attractive price point can also explore our inventory of pre-owned models for well-maintained late-model alternatives.
Pricing
Pricing by trim
| Feature | Active 4WD 100A | Active 4WD 200A | Active RWD 100A | Active RWD 200A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $40,465 | $42,400 | $38,465 | $40,400 |
| Destination charge | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | Platinum | Platinum 4WD | ST | ST 4WD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $50,660 | $52,660 | $53,660 | $55,660 |
| Destination charge | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 |
Pricing (continued)
| Feature | ST-LINE 4WD | ST-LINE RWD | Tremor 4WD | Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $46,200 | $44,200 | Starting at $49,200 | $49,050 |
| Destination charge | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 | $1,795 |
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specs by trim
| Feature | Active 4WD 100A | Active 4WD 200A | Active RWD 100A | Active RWD 200A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L | 2.3L | 2.3L | 2.3L |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift® |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | Platinum | Platinum 4WD | ST | ST 4WD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L | 2.3L | 3L | 3L |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 400 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft |
| Transmission | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift® |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Engine & Performance (continued)
| Feature | ST-LINE 4WD | ST-LINE RWD | Tremor 4WD | Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L | 2.3L | 2.3L | 3.3L |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp | 318 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift® | SelectShift |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
What Interior Seating Materials and Third-Row Legroom Does Each Trim Offer?
The 2027 Ford Explorer Active features cloth seating or available synthetic ActiveX® upholstery, whereas the ST-Line upgrades to ActiveX® seating material with Miko® synthetic suede inserts and red accent stitching, and the ST fits leather-trimmed sport contours with embossed logos. The 2027 Ford Explorer provides 32 inches of third-row legroom, compared to 33 inches in the Honda Pilot, offering ample room for kids and comfortable seating for adults on local drives.
Cabin flexibility remains a primary focus across all three configurations:
- Seating Configurations: Second-row captain's chairs come standard on many mid-tier configurations to create a pass-through lane, while an available second-row bench seat expands total passenger capacity to seven.
- Cargo Space: Opening the rear liftgate reveals about 16 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space behind the third row, expanding to roughly 46 cubic feet with the third row folded flat, and topping out at nearly 86 cubic feet behind the front seats.
- Cabin Comfort: Tri-zone automatic climate control keeps all three rows cool during hot Texas summer afternoons, complemented by standard acoustic-laminated windshield glass that suppresses wind and tire noise.
Families visiting our showroom to compare three-row crossovers usually ask to test the second-row slide function and fold sequence before looking at the spec sheet. Getting into the third row requires a single quick-release lever motion that slides the second row forward, creating an entry clearance that simplifies school drop-off lines. To evaluate how child seats and strollers fit into the rear cargo area, contact our team for current financing options before visiting.
Dimensions & Capacity
Capacity and dimensions by trim
| Feature | Active 4WD 100A | Active 4WD 200A | Active RWD 100A | Active RWD 200A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Cargo | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,303 lbs | 4,303 lbs | 4,303 lbs | 4,303 lbs |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload | 1,467 lbs | 1,467 lbs | 1,467 lbs | 1,467 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | Platinum | Platinum 4WD | ST | ST 4WD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Cargo | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,303 lbs | 4,303 lbs | 4,631 lbs | 4,631 lbs |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Payload | 1,467 lbs | 1,467 lbs | 1,139 lbs | 1,139 lbs |
Dimensions & Capacity (continued)
| Feature | ST-LINE 4WD | ST-LINE RWD | Tremor 4WD | Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 |
| Cargo | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 16.3 cu ft | 52.0 cu ft |
| Curb weight | 4,303 lbs | 4,303 lbs | 4,424 lbs | 4,732 lbs |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Payload | 1,467 lbs | 1,467 lbs | 1,346 lbs | 2,108 lbs |
What Is the Maximum Towing Capacity and Standard Safety Tech on the 2027 Explorer?
When properly equipped with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, the 2027 Ford Explorer Active, ST-Line, and ST deliver a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. Standard driver-assist safety technology across every trim includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, equipping Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Pulling a utility trailer, small camper, or boat requires confidence, and standard sway control technology continuously monitors vehicle movement to apply individual brakes when trailer sway is detected. The surround-view camera system available on the ST-Line and ST adds a top-down visual perspective, making single-person hitch alignment quick and accurate.
Standard safety and driver-assist capabilities include:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: Scans the roadway ahead for potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians, providing visual alerts and automatically applying braking pressure if necessary.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns drivers of vehicles entering hidden side mirror zones and detects approaching traffic when reversing out of parking stalls or driveways.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: Maintains set highway follow distances, automatically decelerating to a complete stop in heavy traffic and resuming speed when traffic clears.
- Lane-Keeping System: Monitors lane markings to provide steering wheel feedback or corrective torque if the vehicle drifts out of its intended lane without signaling.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Safety and driver-assistance features by trim
All trims include standard ABS, height-adjustable front and rear seat head restraints with two per seat row, and height-adjustable third-row head restraints with two per seat for every trim except Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, which does not have third-row head restraints. Front seat belts come with standard driver and passenger pre-tensioners that are also height adjustable, while rear and third row seat belts have standard positioning for both driver and passenger seats across all trims.
Telematics advanced auto collision notification, Isofix preparation, distance and object sensing technology via millimetre wave sensor, emergency call, and accident data recorder are standard features on all trims except Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, where these features are not available. The anti-collision system is comprehensive and standard on every trim, including activating brake lights, automatic emergency braking, and a driver monitor.
Most trims offer the anti-collision system's front low-speed automatic braking as an included feature; however, the Platinum, Platinum 4WD, ST, ST 4WD, ST-LINE 4WD, ST-LINE RWD, and Tremor 4WD trims do not have this feature as standard. The Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 trim maintains this feature as standard.
Rear seat head restraints have two per seat on all trims except Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, which has three per rear seat. Third-row seat belts for driver and passenger positions are standard on all trims, including Utility Police Interceptor 4x4.
What Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Cost, Including Packages and Destination Fees?
The 2027 Ford Explorer Active RWD 100A starts at a base MSRP of $38,465, the Active 4WD 100A starts at $40,465, and upgrading to the Active 200A equipment group brings the base MSRP to $40,400 for RWD or $42,400 for 4WD. The sport-styled ST-Line starts at $44,200 for RWD and $46,200 for 4WD, while the high-performance ST carries a base MSRP of $53,660 in RWD or $55,660 in 4WD configuration, with a standard factory destination charge of $1,795 applied to all orders.
Optional equipment packages allow buyers to customize comfort and appearance parameters directly from the factory floor:
- Active 200A Package: Adds heated front seats, 10-way power driver adjustments, remote engine start capability, and durable synthetic upholstery upgrades.
- ST-Line Equipment Group: Incorporates 20-inch dark-finished aluminum wheels, front parking sensors, surround-view camera optics, ambient interior lighting, and the 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
- ST appearance package: Enhances the high-output performance trim with 21-inch Gloss Black wheels, dark-tinted light lenses, special black-outlined ST badging, and custom interior accents.
Planning your purchase around clear MSRP figures and standard delivery fees ensures straightforward budgeting without unexpected surprises during your vehicle acquisition process.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Ford Explorer Lineup
Q: What is the primary difference between the 2027 Explorer Active and ST-Line trims?
Local Ford dealerships often highlight the 2027 Explorer ST-Line's premium Bang & Olufsen sound system and distinctive 20-inch dark wheels as key upgrades over the Active trim.
Q: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer ST require premium fuel to reach 400 horsepower?
Achieving the full advertised rating of 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque on the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 requires premium fuel. Running standard 87-octane unleaded fuel is completely safe for engine operation, but peak horsepower and torque output will be slightly reduced by engine management software.
Q: What is included in the standard Ford Digital Experience package?
The Ford Digital Experience includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen center display, Google Maps navigation integration, voice control capability, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and over-the-air software update capability to keep infotainment features current without requiring service visits.
Q: How long does a standard pre-qualification check take before visiting the showroom?
Online pre-qualification typically takes only a few minutes to process digital applications. Bringing current pay stubs, proof of residence, and valid driver's license documentation accelerates formal underwriting decisions when finalizing vehicle purchases.
Q: Is all-wheel drive available on every trim tier of the 2027 Explorer?
Intelligent four-wheel drive is available as an option on all 2027 Ford Explorer configurations, including the entry-level Active, styling-focused ST-Line, and performance-oriented ST models, providing enhanced traction control on low-grip road surfaces.
Find Your Ideal 2027 Ford Explorer at a Local Ford Dealership
Finding the perfect three-row SUV comes down to evaluating performance expectations, interior appointments, and overall value. Whether the value-minded Active, eye-catching ST-Line, or 400 hp ST best suits your family's driving requirements, our showroom team stands ready to assist you through every step of the selection process.
Take the next step in your purchasing journey by browsing our new Explorer vehicle selection to compare current trim availability and color choices. Visit our team directly at 109 19th St, Hondo, TX 78861 for a hands-on walkaround, or reach out by calling (830) 426-5391 to schedule your personalized test drive today.
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