2027 Ford Explorer Trim Levels: Which One Is Right for You?
The 2027 Ford Explorer offers something for just about every driver, whether you're looking for a spacious family SUV, a sportier design, off-road capability, or premium comfort. With five available trim levels, choosing the right Explorer comes down to the features and performance that matter most to you.
At Mike Carpino Ford Lincoln in Pittsburg, KS, we're here to help you understand the differences between the 2027 Ford Explorer Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST so you can find the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.
What Are the 2027 Ford Explorer Trim Levels?
The 2027 Ford Explorer is available in five trim levels, each offering its own combination of performance, technology, comfort, and style.
| Trim Level | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Explorer Active | Everyday driving and families | 2.3L EcoBoost engine, heated front seats, 13.2-inch touchscreen |
| Explorer ST-Line | Sporty styling and technology | Black exterior accents, premium audio, 360-degree camera |
| Explorer Tremor | Outdoor adventures | Standard 4WD, off-road suspension, available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
| Explorer Platinum | Premium comfort and luxury | Massaging front seats, premium audio, BlueCruise capability |
| Explorer ST | Performance enthusiasts | 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes |
Let's take a closer look at what makes each 2027 Explorer trim different.
2027 Ford Explorer Active: Everyday Comfort and Capability
The 2027 Ford Explorer Active is the starting point of the Explorer lineup, offering a practical combination of comfort, technology, and performance without requiring an upgrade to a higher trim.
Powered by a standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower, the Explorer Active has plenty of power for daily commutes, highway travel, and family road trips.
Key features include:
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower
- 13.2-inch center touchscreen
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Heated front seats
- Power liftgate
- Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology
- Class III Trailer Tow Package
- Available Intelligent 4WD
With three rows of seating and room for up to seven passengers when equipped with the available second-row bench seat, the Explorer Active is a practical option for families throughout Southeast Kansas.
Who should choose the Explorer Active? Drivers looking for a comfortable, well-equipped SUV with the essential features for everyday life.
2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Sporty Looks Without the Performance Price Tag
Want the appearance of a performance SUV without stepping up to the Explorer ST? The 2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line offers sporty styling with the efficiency and everyday practicality of the standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
The ST-Line stands out with blacked-out exterior accents, distinctive interior stitching, and upgraded technology.
Key features include:
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine with 300 horsepower
- Blacked-out grille and exterior accents
- ActiveX-trimmed seats with red stitching
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 10-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen
- 360-degree camera
- Remote start system
- Power-adjustable front seats
The Explorer ST-Line is a great middle ground for drivers who want a more aggressive appearance while keeping the comfort and practicality of a three-row SUV.
Who should choose the Explorer ST-Line? Drivers who prefer sporty styling, upgraded interior features, and additional technology without needing a larger engine.
2027 Ford Explorer Tremor: Built for Adventure
For drivers who enjoy getting off the pavement, the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor brings additional off-road capability to the Explorer lineup.
The Tremor comes standard with Intelligent 4WD, an off-road-tuned suspension, increased ground clearance, and equipment designed to handle rougher terrain.
Key features include:
- Standard Intelligent 4WD
- Off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height
- Torsen limited-slip rear axle
- Front and rear underbody deflector plates
- Unique grille with auxiliary off-road lights
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine
For 2027, Tremor models equipped with the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 can also add the Sun & Sound Package, which includes premium audio, massaging front seats, and a power moonroof.
Who should choose the Explorer Tremor? Drivers who want a family-friendly SUV with added traction, ground clearance, and off-road equipment.
2027 Ford Explorer Platinum: Premium Comfort and Technology
The 2027 Ford Explorer Platinum focuses on comfort, upscale interior features, and advanced driver-assistance technology.
With premium seating materials, available hands-free highway driving technology, and additional convenience features, the Platinum is designed to make daily driving and longer trips more comfortable.
Key features include:
- Standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine
- Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats
- Heated second-row seats
- PowerFold third-row seats
- Ambient interior lighting
- 14-speaker B&O Sound System
- BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capability
The available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is an exciting addition for 2027, giving Platinum shoppers the option of more horsepower without moving to the performance-focused ST trim.
Who should choose the Explorer Platinum? Families and drivers who prioritize premium comfort, upgraded technology, and a more refined driving experience.
2027 Ford Explorer ST: Performance Meets Practicality
At the performance end of the lineup, the 2027 Ford Explorer ST combines the versatility of a three-row SUV with a more powerful engine and sport-focused handling.
Unlike the other trims, the Explorer ST comes standard with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering up to 400 horsepower.
Key features include:
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine
- Up to 400 horsepower
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Performance brakes with red-painted calipers
- Sport-inspired interior with red stitching
- ST-specific exterior styling
- BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capability
For 2027, the ST also offers a new Sinister Package, featuring unique wheels and amber accent lighting for an even more distinctive appearance.
The Explorer ST is a strong choice for drivers who want more responsive performance without sacrificing passenger space or everyday usefulness.
Who should choose the Explorer ST? Drivers looking for the most performance-focused Explorer, with a powerful V6 engine and sport-tuned handling.
2027 Ford Explorer Engine Options: 2.3L vs. 3.0L EcoBoost
One of the biggest differences between the 2027 Ford Explorer trim levels is what's under the hood.
Ford offers two EcoBoost engine options:
| Engine | Horsepower | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 300 hp | Standard on Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Up to 400 hp | Standard on ST; available on Tremor and Platinum |
The 2.3L EcoBoost engine offers a balance of performance and everyday efficiency, while the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 provides additional power for drivers who want stronger acceleration.
Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
How Much Can the 2027 Ford Explorer Tow?
The 2027 Ford Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, making it a practical option for drivers who occasionally need to tow a small boat, utility trailer, or recreational equipment.
Whether you're hauling equipment around Pittsburg or planning a weekend trip to Grand Lake, the Explorer offers useful towing capability alongside its passenger and cargo space.
Always check your vehicle's specific towing configuration and Ford's towing guidelines before hauling a trailer.
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Have Third-Row Seating?
Yes! Every 2027 Ford Explorer comes with three rows of seating.
Standard second-row captain's chairs provide seating for six passengers, while an available second-row bench seat increases capacity to seven on eligible trims.
The Explorer also offers:
- Up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space, depending on trim
- 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row
- Available PowerFold third-row seats
- Convenient storage for groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and everyday essentials
For families needing extra passenger room without moving to a full-size SUV, the Explorer provides a practical balance of space and versatility.
Which 2027 Ford Explorer Trim Is Best?
The best 2027 Ford Explorer trim depends on what you're looking for in your next SUV.
If you want a comfortable, practical SUV for everyday driving, the Explorer Active is a great place to start.
For a sportier appearance and additional technology, consider the Explorer ST-Line.
If outdoor adventures and off-road capability are priorities, the Explorer Tremor may be the right fit.
Drivers looking for premium comfort and upscale features should take a closer look at the Explorer Platinum, while those wanting the most powerful, performance-focused model will appreciate the Explorer ST.
No matter which trim you prefer, the 2027 Explorer offers the space, technology, and capability that have made it a popular choice for families.
Shop the Ford Explorer at Mike Carpino Ford in Pittsburg, KS
Ready to find your next Ford Explorer? At Mike Carpino Ford in Pittsburg, Kansas, we're here to help you compare models, explore available features, and find an SUV that fits your needs.
We proudly serve drivers from Pittsburg, Fort Scott, Columbus, Girard, and surrounding Southeast Kansas communities, as well as Joplin and Carl Junction, Missouri.
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Stop by Mike Carpino Ford Lincoln in Pittsburg to learn more about the 2027 Ford Explorer.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Ford Explorer
How many trim levels does the 2027 Ford Explorer have?
The 2027 Ford Explorer offers five trim levels: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST.
What is the difference between the 2027 Explorer ST-Line and ST?
The Explorer ST-Line offers sporty styling with a standard 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost engine. The Explorer ST is designed for higher performance, featuring a standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine producing up to 400 horsepower, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes.
Which 2027 Ford Explorer trim is best for off-roading?
The Explorer Tremor is the most off-road-focused trim, featuring standard Intelligent 4WD, an off-road-tuned suspension, increased ground clearance, and a limited-slip rear axle.
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer come with a V6 engine?
Yes. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 comes standard on the Explorer ST and is available on the Tremor and Platinum trims..
Which 2027 Ford Explorer trim is the most luxurious?
The Explorer Platinum focuses on premium comfort, with features including massaging front seats, heated second-row seats, a premium B&O sound system, and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capability.
Where can I find a Ford Explorer near Pittsburg, KS?
Mike Carpino Ford Lincoln in Pittsburg, KS, serves drivers throughout Southeast Kansas and the Joplin, Missouri, area. Contact our dealership to learn more about current Explorer inventory and availability.
