Find the 2026 Ford Explorer Active – Three-Row Family SUV
Available at Kruse Motors in Marshall, MNThe 2026 Ford Explorer Active is a three-row midsize SUV available at Kruse Motors in Marshall, Minnesota. Drivers throughout Marshall, Redwood Falls, Tracy, Cottonwood, Tyler, Minneota, Canby, and Southwest Minnesota choose the Explorer Active because it combines turbocharged EcoBoost® performance, seating for up to seven passengers, advanced driver-assistance technology, flexible cargo space, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capability for everyday family life and weekend adventures.
Key Facts About the 2026 Ford Explorer Active
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Engine | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active features a 2.3L EcoBoost® turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. |
| Transmission & Drivetrain | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active pairs a 10-speed automatic transmission with standard Rear-Wheel Drive or available Intelligent 4WD. |
| Seating & Cargo | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active seats up to seven passengers and offers up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space. |
| Towing Capacity | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active includes a standard Class III Towing Package that provides up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. |
| Technology | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active features a 13.2-inch touchscreen with Ford Digital Experience, Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay®, and wireless Android Auto™. |
| Safety | The 2026 Ford Explorer Active includes Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ driver-assistance technologies. |
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active Gives Families More Space and Flexibility
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active is designed for families who need three-row seating without sacrificing everyday drivability. It comfortably seats up to seven passengers while offering up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. According to Ford, the standard Class III Towing Package allows the Explorer Active to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. We believe this combination of passenger space, cargo flexibility, and towing capability makes the Explorer Active an excellent choice for families balancing school activities, vacations, outdoor recreation, and daily commuting.
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active Delivers Turbocharged Performance
The Explorer Active combines a responsive 2.3L EcoBoost® engine with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission for confident acceleration and highway performance.
Car and Driver says the standard engine "motivates the Explorer with a reasonable amount of authority." We agree with that assessment because many customers are pleasantly surprised during their test drive by how responsive the standard EcoBoost® engine feels. It provides plenty of power for commuting, interstate travel, passing slower traffic, and towing recreational equipment without requiring an upgrade to the available V6.
Ford Explorer Owners Praise Everyday Practicality
Owners participating in discussions on Reddit's r/FordExplorer frequently highlight the Explorer Active's cargo flexibility and family-friendly design.
One owner shared:
"We haul 2 or 3 tents/awnings for softball, coolers and bags just fine with the 3rd row seats down."
Another owner commented:
"Love the space and flexibility — great for active families with kids and gear."
We see similar experiences among many of our customers throughout Southwest Minnesota. Families often choose the Explorer because it easily handles sports equipment, luggage, groceries, camping gear, and everyday errands without feeling oversized to drive or park.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Explorer Active
Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Active practical for families?
Yes. The Explorer Active seats up to seven passengers and offers flexible cargo space for everyday errands and weekend adventures. Owners on Reddit frequently praise its versatility, and we agree with that feedback. Many soccer, baseball, hockey, and softball families appreciate how easily the Explorer accommodates both passengers and sports equipment while remaining comfortable for everyday driving.
Does the 2.3L EcoBoost® engine provide enough power?
Yes. The standard engine delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque for confident acceleration, highway merging, and towing. Car and Driver praises the engine's responsive performance, and we have found that many customers are impressed by how capable the standard powertrain feels during their first test drive.
Can the Explorer Active tow a camper or fishing boat?
Yes. The standard Class III Towing Package allows the Explorer Active to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Ford owners frequently discuss towing campers, utility trailers, and fishing boats on Reddit, and we recommend matching your trailer weight and equipment to Ford's towing guidelines for the safest experience.
What technology comes with the Explorer Active?
The Explorer Active includes a 13.2-inch touchscreen, Ford Digital Experience, Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay®, wireless Android Auto™, and Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+. Many customers upgrading from older SUVs tell us these connected technologies are among the most noticeable improvements they experience.
Is the Explorer Active comfortable for long road trips?
Yes. Three-row seating, tri-zone climate control, and a quiet cabin help create a comfortable travel experience. Consumer Guide noted that the powertrain "handled the task seamlessly," and we agree that the smooth ride and spacious interior make the Explorer Active well suited for long family vacations and weekend road trips across Minnesota.
Kruse Motors Helps Drivers Find the Right Ford Explorer
Choosing a family SUV involves more than comparing specifications. At Kruse Motors, we help drivers throughout Marshall, Redwood Falls, Tracy, Cottonwood, Tyler, Minneota, Canby, and Southwest Minnesota compare Explorer trim levels, evaluate Intelligent 4WD options, understand towing capability, and select the configuration that best fits their family's lifestyle.
Browse our available 2026 Ford Explorer Active inventory or schedule your test drive today at Kruse Motors in Marshall, Minnesota.
Kruse Motors
1651-61 East College Drive, Marshall, MN
Showroom Hours
Wednesday
8am - 7pm
Thursday
8am - 7pm
Friday
8am - 6pm
Saturday
8am - 4pm
Sunday
Closed
Monday
8am - 7pm
Tuesday
8am - 7pm