The 2026 Ford Explorer Active 4WD is purpose-built for families, offering three rows of seating with easy rear access and space for up to three car seats in the second row alone, plus a third-row bench for additional children.
Families with young children and teens will appreciate the Explorer's versatile cabin, which comfortably accommodates car seats, booster seats, and taller passengers alike. The SUVâs third-row seating and ample legroom suit both expanding households and active families juggling sports gear, strollers, and friends. Teen drivers benefit from user-friendly controls, excellent outward visibility, and advanced safety systems, supporting peace of mind whether youâre shuttling toddlers or coaching a new driver.
The Explorerâs 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine delivers smooth, quiet acceleration that wonât disturb sleeping babies and offers solid highway merging power, even with all seats filled. Its 10-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes for a gentle ride, while 4WD capability provides stability in rain or snowâ"a boon for family road trips. With an EPA-estimated 20 city/27 highway MPG, the SUV balances efficiency and performance, and can tow up to 5,300 lbs for family camping trips or trailers.
Safety is at the heart of the Explorer's design, providing peace of mind for parents. LATCH anchors are easily accessible in the outboard second-row seats, ensuring secure installation of up to three car seats, while the third row can accommodate boosters. Comprehensive airbag coverage includes dual front, dual front side, knee, and full-length side curtain airbags. The SUV features ABS brakes, electronic stability control, and 911 Assist. Although specific crash test ratings are not provided, the suite of active safety equipmentâ"like a rearview camera, automatic high-beams, and occupant sensing airbagsâ"prioritizes protecting what matters most. While it does not specify a rear seat reminder, the Explorerâs warning systems help prevent unintended passenger risks.
Equipped with the Active Comfort Package, the Explorer boasts unique heated cloth captainâs chairs for enhanced comfort on long drives, tri-zone automatic climate control to keep all rows comfortable, and a 12-speaker audio system for immersive entertainment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplify device integration, while navigation ensures you never lose your way. Rear air conditioning vents reach all passengers, and split-folding seats expand cargo space for strollers or sports equipment. The 20" Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum wheels and fully automatic headlights add style and practicality to daily routines.
Compared to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Explorer stands out with its more accessible LATCH anchors, wider rear door openings for easier seat loading, and a more configurable third row. The Explorerâs turbocharged engine offers a more responsive drive, while its active safety suite is designed specifically to address modern family needs. Competitors may lack the Explorerâs blend of comfort-focused features and flexible storage solutions that make every family outing smoother.
Parents often ask how many car seats fit: the Explorer can secure up to three in the second row and accommodate additional boosters in the third. The SUVâs active safety equipment, comprehensive airbag coverage, and stability systems ensure high protection for kids and teens alike.
Experience the Explorerâs family-focused design and peace of mind at Lynch Ford Chevrolet, 410 Business 30 Sw Mt Vernon, IA 52314. Call 319-895-8500 to schedule a test drive and see how the Explorer protects what matters most, with flexible seating, advanced safety, and features tailored for modern families. Price includes: $1000 - Auto Show Retail Bonus Cash. Exp. 03/02/2026 $1000 - Retail Customer Cash. Exp. 03/02/2026
