The 2026 Ford Explorer ST combines three-row family practicality with 400 horsepower, giving buyers a sporty SUV with serious performance for less than $60,000 when equipped with all-wheel drive.
400 Horsepower From a Twin-Turbo V6
The Explorer ST uses the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine found in the Bronco and Ranger Raptor models. The engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
Unlike most competitors, the current Explorer is a rear-drive SUV. The ST comes with rear-wheel drive as standard, while all-wheel drive is available, with power sent through a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In testing of the AWD model, the Explorer ST reached 60 mph in 5.24 seconds, putting it among the quickest family crossovers available at this price point.
Explorer ST Can Stay Below $60,000
Ford lists the Explorer ST at $54,905 before a $1,795 delivery fee. Several options can raise the price, including the $2,995 Sun and Sound Package, which adds a 14-speaker B&O audio system, massage seats and a panoramic glass roof.
A $4,895 black painted roof is also available, while all-wheel drive adds $2,000. With AWD, the Explorer ST can still be configured for less than $60,000.
The only three-row SUV with more power at a similar price is the Dodge Durango R/T 392, which starts at $51,745. With similar equipment, the Durango 392 Premium costs $58,345.
The Final ST Model
Ford’s ST lineup has become smaller in recent years. The Explorer is the only ST model remaining in the North American market, while Europe gets the Puma ST.
For buyers who previously owned vehicles such as the Focus ST or Fiesta ST and now need more room for children, the Explorer ST offers a family-oriented alternative while retaining the ST badge.
The Dodge Durango is the Explorer ST’s closest competitor, with an available 6.4-liter V8 producing 475 horsepower. The Explorer ST also comes with standard 21-inch wheels, while the available Sinister Package adds black accents.
Comfort Features From Ford’s Lineup
Ford positions the ST as the top Explorer trim level, although the Platinum and Tremor trims can also offer similar comfort features and performance. The Platinum is no longer available with the V6, while the engine remains available on the Tremor for just under $7,000.
The Platinum features a more luxurious interior, but the Explorer ST remains well-equipped. Heated and ventilated suede front seats are standard, along with heated rear seats.
The Sun and Sound Package adds massage functionality to the front seats, bringing a feature more commonly associated with Lincoln.
Three-Row Space for the Family
The Explorer is not the most spacious vehicle in the midsize crossover segment, but it provides up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded.
A power-operated third row comes standard on the ST, allowing owners to raise or lower the seats with one button. The second-row seats, however, cannot be folded from the trunk and require access through the rear doors.
Buyers can choose a bench seat, like the one fitted to the tested vehicle, or opt for captain’s chairs at no additional cost. The captain’s chairs reduce seating capacity from seven to six passengers.
The bench seat remains comfortable, with individual slide and recline adjustments for all three seats. Together with its 400-horsepower engine and three-row layout, the Explorer ST gives families a performance-focused SUV while keeping the price below $60,000 with all-wheel drive.
