The 2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line stands out as the savvy choice among midsize SUVs, especially when cross-shopping against the Chevrolet Traverse and Honda Pilot.
Shoppers comparing multiple three-row SUVs will find that the Explorer ST-Line is uniquely positioned for families, commuters, and adventure-seekers who demand a balance of comfort and capability. If you regularly face unpredictable Midwest weather in the rd St. Homewood, IL area or need a vehicle that handles both city and weekend escapes, the standard 4WD and heated Unique Cloth Captain's Chairs deliver practical daily comfort and all-season confidence. The inclusion of a panoramic Vista Roof with power shade also enhances the experience for passengers on long trips, making this SUV a strong fit for those who value both everyday usability and road-trip readiness.
When evaluating performance, the Explorer ST-Line's 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission sets it apart from competitors that may offer larger engines but at the expense of fuel economy or responsiveness. While the Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse focus on V6 power, the Explorerâs turbocharged powertrain delivers brisk acceleration and smooth shifting, offering 20 city and 27 highway EPA-estimated MPG. The four-wheel drive system ensures steady traction in challenging conditions, giving drivers added peace of mind whether on wet roads or light off-road trails.
Safety-wise, the Explorer excels by making critical active safety features standard. Advanced equipment like ABS brakes, electronic stability control, brake assist, and an exterior parking camera rear provide real-time driver support that the competition often limits to upper trims or as costly add-ons. Auto high-beam headlights, dual front side impact airbags, knee airbags, and Fordâs 911 Assist emergency communication system further elevate safety, allowing families to drive confidently knowing that the vehicle is equipped to help prevent and respond to hazards before they become incidents.
Feature content in the ST-Line trim is robust, giving it a clear value advantage within its class. The Premium Package introduces a B&O Sound System by Bang and Olufsen and navigation system, granting upscale technology that rivals frequently reserve for their most expensive trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, three-zone automatic temperature control, and the panoramic Vista Roof all come standard, turning every drive into an enjoyable experience. Convenience features such as a power liftgate, remote keyless entry, and power-adjustable front seats further reinforce the Explorerâs reputation for delivering more standard amenities than many competitors.
Compared to the Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse, the Explorer ST-Line offers superior standard tech and active safety equipment, as well as a more athletic design aesthetic.
Why should buyers choose the Explorer ST-Line over the Honda Pilot or Chevrolet Traverse? The Explorer delivers a sportier design, a more advanced turbocharged engine, and more standard technology at its trim level. What features does this SUV offer that are often extra on rivals? Standard navigation, B&O premium audio, heated steering wheel, and panoramic Vista Roof elevate the ownership experience.
Ford of Homewood invites you to experience the 2027 Explorer ST-Line firsthand. For details or to arrange a test drive, call 708-356-9308 or visit 3233 183rd St. Homewood, IL 60430. Discover how the Explorer compares and make your next SUV purchase with confidence. Price includes: $500 - Retail Customer Cash. Exp. 09/30/2026
2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line SUV EcoBoost I-4
- New
The overview
- Exterior Color
- Agate Black Metallic
- Interior Color
- Ew
- Fuel Economy
- 20/27 MPG City/Hwy
- Transmission
- 10-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- 4WD
- Engine
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
- VIN
- 1FMUK8KH7VGA30359
- Stock Number
- 27017
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
- TAILLAMPS/FOG LAMPS - LED
- TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
- UNIQUE ST-LINE BADGING
- VARIABLE INTERVAL WIPERS
- 13.2" CENTER DISPLAY
- 360-DEGREE CAMERA
- 5G MODEM
- B&O SOUND SYSTEM, 10 SPKR
- FORD APP
- FORD DIGITAL EXPERIENCE W/GOOGLE MAPS & PLAY STORE
- KEYLESS ENTRY W/PUSH START
- REMOTE START SYSTEM
- SELECTABLE DRIVE MODE - 6
- WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO
- 12.3" CLUSTER DISPLAY
- 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
- SMART CHARGING USB PORTS
- STEERING WHEEL - PREMIUM LEATHER-WRAPPED HEATED
- 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: Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0
- SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (1-year Included*)
- SpecialPackage: Ford Security Package (1-year included with activation)
- Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
- WheelMaterial: 20" Ebony-Painted Machined Aluminum Wheels
- WheelSize: 20" Ebony-Painted Machined Aluminum Wheels
Notes from the dealer
Peace of mind
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.