The 2026 Ford Explorer ST stands out for long-term ownership value by combining a proven 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine with a durable 4WD drivetrain. This SUV is engineered for sustained reliability and strong resale, making it a smart choice for families and individuals seeking a high-value vehicle that can handle years of daily use as well as the demands of changing weather and road conditions.
Drivers who prioritize reliability, low long-term cost, and practicality will find this SUV suited to their needs. The Explorer STâs robust engineering, paired with features like heated Miko Suede captainâs chairs and a power liftgate, appeals to those who spend significant time commuting or transporting family. In regions like rd St. Homewood, IL, the 4WD system and heated seats offer peace of mind and comfort through harsh winters and unpredictable weather.
A key benefit of this SUV is its proven powertrain, with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed automatic transmission designed for durability and smooth power delivery. Owners benefit from confident acceleration and responsive performance, whether merging onto highways or navigating urban streets, without sacrificing the long-haul dependability expected in a family SUV. The 4WD system further enhances traction and stability for those who regularly encounter varying terrains.
Ownership value extends to safety, as the Explorer ST integrates active safety equipment such as ABS brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, brake assist, multiple airbags, and a rearview camera. These features reduce risk and help protect occupants, which contributes to minimizing the potential for costly accident-related repairs and supporting the vehicleâs long-term resale value. Rain-sensing wipers and auto high-beam headlights further enhance confidence during adverse weather.
This modelâs feature set is tailored for comfort and convenience, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and tri-zone automatic climate control. The 10-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and SiriusXM with 360L provide advanced connectivity and entertainment. The power liftgate and split-folding third row make loading cargo and adapting the interior layout effortless for busy owners.
Compared to alternatives like the Chevrolet Traverse and Toyota Highlander, the Explorer ST emphasizes a stronger blend of durability and performance. Its 4WD system and turbocharged V6 cater to buyers seeking a long-lasting, high-value SUV with spirited dynamics, while segment competitors may offer similar space but lack the distinctive powertrain and robust feature set that contribute to lower depreciation and higher resale value over time.
What is the fuel economy for this SUV? The EPA estimates are 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, balancing capability with efficiency for a vehicle of its class. Is this brand reliable over the long term? Fordâs Explorer family has a reputation for durability, especially in models equipped with proven powertrains like the EcoBoost V6. What warranty coverage came with this vehicle? The original warranty included 5 years or 60,000 miles of powertrain coverage and corrosion protection for 5 years with unlimited miles, supporting confidence in long-term ownership.
For those ready to experience the value and advanced features of the Explorer ST, Ford of Homewood welcomes you to visit at 3233 183rd St. Homewood, IL 60430 or call 708-356-9308 for more information and test drive opportunities. Price includes: $1000 - SSE Down Payment Assistance. Exp. 08/31/2026 $3000 - Retail Customer Cash. Exp. 09/30/2026
2026 Ford Explorer ST SUV EcoBoost V6
- New
$63,395MSRP1
$53,895Final Price**
Ford of Homewood
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The overview
- Exterior Color
- Agate Black Metallic
- Interior Color
- Onyx
- Fuel Economy
- 18/25 MPG City/Hwy
- Transmission
- 10-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Engine
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6
- VIN
- 1FMWK8GC2TGB68295
- Stock Number
- 26248
The full specifications
- 3YR/36,000 BUMPER / BUMPER
- 5YR/60,000 POWERTRAIN
- 5YR/60,000 ROADSIDE ASSIST
- 'EXPLORER' HOOD BADGING
- CLASS III TRAILER TOW PKG
- FRT/RR SKID PLATE ELEMENTS
- GRILLE - BLACK MESH INSERT
- HEADLAMPS - AUTO LED
- MIRRORS-PWR/HTD/AUTO-FOLD ST PROJ LOGO LAMP
- POWER LIFTGATE
- PRIVACY GLASS - REAR DOORS
- QUAD TIP DUAL EXHAUST
- ST BADGING
- TAILLAMPS/FOG LAMPS - LED
- TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
- WIPERS - RAIN-SENSING
- 13.2" LCD TOUCHSCREEN
- 360-DEGREE CAMERA
- 5G MODEM
- FORD CO-PILOT360ACTIVE2.0
- FORD DIGITAL EXPERIENCE W/GOOGLE MAPS & PLAY STORE
- KEYLESS ENTRY W/PUSH START
- PERFORMANCE BRAKES-RED
- REMOTE START SYSTEM
- SELECTABLE DRIVE MODES
- SIRIUSXM W/360L- NA AK&HI
- SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
- WI-FI HOTSPOT
- WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO
- "EXPLORER" FRNT FLOOR MATS
- 110V/150W AC POWER OUTLET
- 12.3" LCD DIGITAL CLUSTER
- 2ND ROW HEATED SEATS
- AMBIENT LIGHTING
- AUTO-DIM REARVIEW MIRROR
- DUAL ILLUM VIS VANITY MIRR
- HTD LTH WRAPPED STEER WHL W/LOGO, MOUNTED CONTROLS AND TILT/TELE STR COLUMN
- HTD/VENTILATED FRT SEATS
- POWERFOLD 3RD ROW SEAT
- RED STITCH ACCENTS
- UNIVSL GARAGE DOOR OPENER
- USB-C - ALL ROWS
- ADVANCETRAC WITH RSC
- AIRBAG - DRIVER KNEE
- AIRBAGS - DUAL STAGE FRONT
- AIRBAGS - FRONT SEAT MOUNTED SIDE IMPACT
- AIRBAGS - SAFETY CANOPY
- INDIV TIRE PRESS MONIT SYS
- LATCH CHILD SAFETY SYSTEM
- PERIMETER ALARM
- PERSONAL SAFETY SYSTEM
- SOS POST-CRASH ALERT SYS
- Drive: 4WD
- Engine: 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
- ExteriorColor: Agate Black Metallic
- InteriorColor: Onyx
- RapidSpec: ST (400A)
- SeatType: ActiveX® Seating Material with Miko® Inserts, Accent Stitching and ST Logo
- SpecialPackage: BlueCruise Equipped (90-Day trial)
- SpecialPackage: BlueCruise Hardware
- SpecialPackage: Class III Trailer Tow Package
- SpecialPackage: Discount - Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade
- SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (1-year Included)
- SpecialPackage: Premium Package
- SpecialPackage: SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan)
- SpecialPackage: Sun and Sound Package
- Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- WheelMaterial: 21” Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
- WheelSize: 21” Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
Notes from the dealer
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Ford of Homewood is dedicated to your satisfaction before, during, and after your purchase. We'll go the extra mile to take care of you.
More about usKBB.com Consumer Reviews
- 5.0
Seats and performance
by Chan78 on 6/30/2026 6:16:53 PM
I love the suv its fantastic to drive only issue I have is the wind noise in the driver seat but I'd sleep in it every night the seats are comfortable. - 5.0
Explorer
by Rudy on 5/28/2026 6:10:36 PM
So far so good - smooth ride - plenty of power for a 2.3 liter 4 cyl which coming from someone who drove a 5.0 V8 for 20 yrs- much better on gas - 4.0
Served our family well!
by Beth on 2/19/2026 11:46:55 PM
Trading my car in next week, I am gonna miss my Explorer. It’s been a good family car. Draw backs: the screen is glitchy at times. Some electronics malfunctioned and I won’t lie, they can be costly to fix. Comfortable, spacious. I never had any mechanical problems with the car, but I did take very good care of it at well. I maintained all recommended services and any replacements were all genuine Ford parts. I hope whoever buys our car, loves it as much as we did.