The 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line stands out for long-term ownership value, blending proven reliability with features designed for durability and strong resale. With a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine and 4WD, this SUV is engineered for years of daily driving, family trips, and changing weather without excessive upkeep or rapid depreciation. The combination of style, technology, and performance ensures that owners benefit from both satisfaction and economic sensibility over the life of the vehicle.
Pragmatic buyers searching for a dependable, versatile SUV will find the Explorer ST-Line well-suited to a range of lifestyles. Its robust 4WD system and heated unique cloth captain's chairs provide year-round comfort and traction, especially valuable during Midwest winters around Homewood, IL. The three-row seating with E-Z entry and rear bench means families, commuters, or those needing extra space for gear can travel efficiently, while technology like navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto streamlines daily routines.
Efficiency and longevity drive the performance story of this SUV. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission to deliver smooth shifts and proven reliability, a hallmark of Ford's engineering in this segment. With an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, the Explorer minimizes fuel costs for both urban commuting and highway travel, offering an ownership experience focused on reduced long-term expenses and lasting mechanical confidence.
Safety is a core component of the Explorer's value proposition, protecting both your investment and your family. Standard features like ABS brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control work together to prevent loss of control in challenging conditions. The rearview camera and rain-sensing wipers improve visibility in adverse weather, while emergency communication via 911 Assist and multiple airbagsâ"including knee airbagsâ"further enhance peace of mind for every journey.
This vehicle includes a comprehensive suite of features through the ST-Line, Equipment Group 300A Standard Package, and Premium Package. Enjoy the benefit of a panoramic fixed glass roof with power shade for an open, airy cabin feel, and a B&O Sound System by Bang and Olufsen for high-quality audio. Convenience features such as the power liftgate, memory driverâs seat, heated steering wheel, and remote keyless entry add daily comfort, while the Ford Connectivity Package and SiriusXM with 360L provide advanced connectivity and entertainment.
Compared to key competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse and Honda Pilot, the Explorer ST-Line excels in long-term value through its robust EcoBoost engine, advanced safety features, and technology-rich interior. While all three offer family-ready space, the Explorerâs stronger resale reputation and comprehensive feature set position it as a more cost-effective investment over time, particularly for buyers prioritizing reliability and durability in their next SUV.
What kind of fuel efficiency should owners expect? The Explorer is rated at 20 MPG in city driving and 27 MPG on the highway. Is the brand known for reliability? Fordâs Explorer line has a strong reputation for lasting durability and mechanical robustness, supporting years of active use.
For a smart long-term investment in a family-ready SUV, visit Ford of Homewood at 3233 183rd St. Homewood, IL 60430 or call 708-356-9308 to learn more about the 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line and schedule your personal test drive. Price includes: $4000 - Retail Customer Cash. Exp. 01/04/2027 $500 - Mega Bonus Cash. Exp. 11/02/2026
2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line SUV EcoBoost I-4
- New
$54,955MSRP1
$44,567Final Price**
Ford of Homewood
Call 708-356-9308
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The overview
- Exterior Color
- Agate Black Metallic
- Interior Color
- Onyx
- Fuel Economy
- 20/27 MPG City/Hwy
- Transmission
- 10-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Engine
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
- VIN
- 1FMUK8KH7TGB42396
- Stock Number
- 26184
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
- EASY FUEL CAPLESS FILLER
- GRILLE - BLACK MESH INSERT
- HEADLAMPS - AUTO LED
- POWER LIFTGATE
- PRIVACY GLASS - REAR DOORS
- ROOF-RACK SIDE RAILS-BLACK
- TAILLAMPS/FOG LAMPS - LED
- TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
- UNIQUE ST-LINE BADGING
- VARIABLE INTERVAL WIPERS
- 13.2" LCD TOUCHSCREEN
- 360-DEGREE CAMERA
- 4-DR INTELL ACCESS LOCK/ UNLOCK W/PUSH-BUTTON START
- 5G MODEM
- B&O SOUND SYSTEM, 10 SPKR
- FORD DIGITAL EXPERIENCE W/GOOGLE MAPS & PLAY STORE
- REMOTE START SYSTEM
- SELECTABLE DRIVE MODES
- SIRIUSXM W/360L- NA AK&HI
- WI-FI HOTSPOT
- WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO
- 12.3" LCD DIGITAL CLUSTER
- 1TOUCH UP/DOWN DR/PASS WIN
- FRONT ROW HEATED SEATS
- POWER DRIVER'S SEAT
- POWER PASS SEAT
- POWERPOINTS - 12V
- RED STITCH ACCENTS
- ROTARY GEAR SHIFT DIAL
- STEERING WHEEL - PREMIUM LEATHER-WRAPPED HEATED
- 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: 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
- ExteriorColor: Agate Black Metallic
- InteriorColor: Onyx
- RapidSpec: ST-Line (300A)
- SeatType: Unique Cloth with Red Stitching
- SpecialPackage: Class III Trailer Tow Package
- SpecialPackage: Discount - Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade
- SpecialPackage: Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0
- SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (1-year Included)
- SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (One-time purchase − 7 years)
- SpecialPackage: Premium Package
- SpecialPackage: ST-Line Street Pack
- SpecialPackage: SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan)
- Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- WheelMaterial: 21” Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
- WheelSize: 21” Magnetite-Painted Aluminum Wheels
Notes from the dealer
Peace of mind
Factory warranty
3YR/36,000 BUMPER / BUMPER
A name you can trust
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
Love it.
by Alex on 8/9/2026 11:55:02 PM
Single guy looking for a vehicle that is fun to drive but can haul junk too, and this fits the bill. I came from a 2018 Lincoln MKZ 3.0t AWD, this has all the same features but this does it better. Mine had one minor panel issue the dealership is fixing, but otherwise everything is solid. Installed a BOV, I find it funny to blow past people with a quiet exhaust and a loud Spanish sound as they disappear into the distance. Fantastic nighttime viability over the lower trims. Actually just better over all than the lower trims. Bolt ons and a tune just puts this in its own league for the price you pay, the only thing that comes close is a 2026 dodge Durango RT 392. ST is not for everyone but it is for me. "Sporty" family hauler my butt. Wrong demographic. This is a genuine fast mid-sized SUZ that you'd have to go luxury to get close to the performance numbers otherwise. - 5.0
Explorer Value 7-7-2026
by General Jim on 8/7/2026 11:06:23 PM
Your evaluation procedure was simple and complete. I will be in contact with you when I sell or trade this vehicle. - 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.
