The New 2026 Ford Explorer for Sale in Yankton
The 2026 Ford Explorer remains a benchmark in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of versatile performance, roomy interiors, and advanced technology. Whether you're heading out on family road trips across the Plains or tackling everyday commutes, this capable SUV provides the comfort, performance, and confidence you require. Lewis and Clark Ford Lincoln INC. proudly serves drivers in the area seeking a dependable, feature-packed three-row SUV that can manage any challenge.
What's New for 2026?
The 2026 Ford Explorer features a refined lineup with five distinct trim levels, catering to various driving preferences and lifestyles. These trims include Active, Tremor, Platinum, ST-Line, and ST, each with unique styling and equipment. Ford has upgraded the Explorer's technology with the latest connected services, including a free one-year Ford connectivity plan supporting Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. The Tremor trim remains popular with adventure enthusiasts thanks to its off-road equipment, while the performance-oriented ST trim offers exciting power for enthusiasts. Shoppers in Yankton, SD will find this model year more appealing than ever with these thoughtful updates.
Performance and Drivability
The 2026 Ford Explorer features two turbocharged EcoBoost engines designed for a balance of power and efficiency. The standard 2.3-liter inline-four Turbocharged EcoBoost engine delivers 300 horsepower, ensuring strong acceleration for highway merging and passing. For those looking for extra performance, the optional 3.0-liter six-cylinder Twin Turbocharged EcoBoost engine produces 400 horsepower, accessible on the Tremor and ST trims.
All Explorer models come with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission that maximizes power and fuel efficiency in different driving situations. The ST trim adds SelectShift and paddle shifters for a more interactive driving experience. Depending on the setup, drivers can select either rear-wheel drive or an automatic full-time four-wheel drive. The four-wheel-drive system is especially useful during South Dakota winters when traction and stability are critical.
Fuel efficiency stays competitive across the lineup. The Active trim with rear-wheel drive averages about 20 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway, and 24 MPG combined. Even the high-performance 400-horsepower models maintain decent efficiency, delivering around 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Tremor trim, equipped with a 2.3-liter engine and standard four-wheel drive, offers approximately 19 MPG in the city, 23 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG overall. With a fuel tank capacity ranging from 17.9 to 20.2 gallons depending on the powertrain, the Explorer provides a substantial range for long trips.
Interior and Cargo
Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer, featuring a well-designed cabin focused on comfort and practicality. It measures 198.8 inches in length with a 119.1-inch wheelbase, offering ample space for passengers across three rows. Depending on the seating setup, it comfortably fits six or seven people, making it perfect for families or anyone who often carries groups.
Seating options differ by trim level to meet various preferences. The Active trim offers distinctive cloth heated captain's chairs and a 10-way power driver seat. The ST-Line includes heated, special cloth captain's chairs with red stitching. The Tremor trim presents heated and ventilated Miko Suede captain's chairs with micro-perforated surfaces and electric spice stitching. The Platinum trim boosts luxury with ActiveX-trimmed captain's chairs that are heated and ventilated, featuring multicontour seats with Active Motion and interlaced leather diamond perforated inserts. Additionally, premium quilted leather seats with Platinum badges are available.
Second-row seating features bucket folding captain's chairs, many with heating, manual recline, and fold-forward seatbacks. An optional bench seat with a 35/30/35 split, E-Z Entry, and armrest offers added versatility. The third row has a 50-50 split-bench that folds into the floor to provide a flat cargo space when more hauling capacity is required. Power-folding seats in the third row are standard on the Platinum and ST trims for extra convenience. Check out our new inventory to see available configurations.
Tech and Safety
The 2026 Ford Explorer highlights advanced connectivity and driver assistance features across its range. Dominating the dashboard is a 13.2-inch color LCD touchscreen that acts as the hub for infotainment. It supports Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, SiriusXM with 360L offers a three-month prepaid subscription, granting access to a wide variety of audio content.
Audio quality depends on the trim level: the Active model has a six-speaker setup, while higher trims are equipped with the B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. The standard B&O system features 10 speakers and a subwoofer, whereas an upgrade option offers 980 watts and 14 speakers for premium sound.
Ford equips the Explorer with advanced safety features to protect occupants and help prevent accidents. Standard equipment includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, and Collision Mitigation-Front. The BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) keeps watch over adjacent lanes, while Rear Cross-Traffic Braking assists during reversing out of parking spots. Additionally, the Aerial View Camera System is standard on the Tremor, Platinum, ST-Line, and ST trims, offering a top-down view to aid parking.
BlueCruise hands-free driving technology is available on the Platinum and ST trims, including a complimentary 90-day trial. This advanced system enables hands-free highway driving on designated roadways, reducing driver fatigue on long trips. Additional safety features include Driver Monitoring Alert, Evasion Assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a comprehensive airbag system with Safety Canopy curtain airbags for all three rows.
Available Colors and Trims
The 2026 Ford Explorer offers a variety of wheel options across different trim levels. The Active trim features 18-inch Sparkle Silver-Painted Aluminum wheels, with options for 20-inch Luster Nickel-Painted or Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum wheels. The Tremor stands out with 18-inch High Gloss Black-Painted Aluminum wheels accented with electric spice. The ST-Line is equipped with 20-inch Ebony-Painted Machined Aluminum wheels, while the ST and Platinum trims display premium 20 and 21-inch wheel designs. Interior colors include Onyx, Dark Space Gray, Space Gray, Salt Crystal, and Mojave Dusk, with a range of seating materials.
Visit Lewis and Clark Ford Lincoln INC. Today!
Browse our full new vehicle selection at Lewis and Clark Ford Lincoln INC. in Yankton to find the ideal 2026 Ford Explorer for your needs. Our expert team is here to help you see why the Explorer continues to be one of America's top family SUVs.
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