A Versatile Three-Row SUV Built for Families and Daily Driving in Southwest Minnesota
At Kruse Motors in Marshall, MN, we regularly work with drivers who need more than just a standard SUV. Families across Lyon County and nearby communities like Redwood Falls and Granite Falls are often looking for a vehicle that can handle school drop-offs, long highway drives, and unpredictable Minnesota weather.
The 2026 Ford Explorer is built to meet those needs. With three rows of seating, available all-wheel drive, and a balance of performance and comfort, it’s designed for everyday life in Southwest Minnesota. Whether you’re commuting along East College Drive or heading out on Highway 59, the Explorer provides the space, capability, and confidence many local drivers are looking for.
Performance That Fits Marshall, MN Driving Conditions
The 2026 Explorer offers multiple engine options and drivetrain configurations, giving drivers flexibility based on how they plan to use their SUV.
| Feature | Specification | What It Means for Drivers in Marshall, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost® Turbocharged I-4 (300 hp / 310 lb-ft) | Strong performance for daily driving, commuting, and highway travel |
| Available Engine | 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 (up to 400 hp / 415 lb-ft in ST) | Added power for acceleration, passing, and towing |
| Drivetrain | RWD standard / AWD available | Improved traction for snow, ice, and rural roads |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | Smooth shifting across city and highway driving |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 5,600 lbs when properly equipped | Capable of towing boats, trailers, or campers |
| Terrain Management System | Available with multiple drive modes | Helps adapt to snow, sand, mud, and slippery roads |
For drivers in Marshall, this means confident handling in winter, strong highway performance, and the flexibility to handle both daily driving and weekend travel.
Interior Space and Comfort for Families
The 2026 Ford Explorer is designed with families and active lifestyles in mind. The three-row layout provides flexibility for passengers and cargo.
Interior highlights include:
Seating for up to seven passengers
Available second-row captain’s chairs for easier third-row access
Available leather-trimmed seating surfaces
Heated and ventilated front seats (available)
Generous cargo space behind the third row, with expanded storage when seats are folded
Whether you’re running errands around Marshall or taking longer trips across Minnesota, the Explorer offers the space and comfort needed for everyday use.
Exterior Design That Fits Everyday Life
The Explorer blends a modern SUV design with practical functionality.
Exterior features include:
Strong, athletic stance with refined styling
Available LED lighting for better visibility during early mornings and evenings
Roof rails for additional cargo flexibility
Multiple wheel designs depending on trim level
Its size provides interior space without feeling oversized when navigating parking lots or local streets.
Technology That Keeps You Connected
The 2026 Explorer features updated technology designed to simplify your driving experience.
Technology highlights include:
Standard 13.2-inch touchscreen display
SYNC® 4 infotainment system with voice recognition
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
Available wireless charging pad
Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Available B&O® premium sound system
The system is designed to be intuitive, making it easy to stay connected whether you’re commuting locally or traveling longer distances.
Safety Features for Confidence on the Road
Safety is a priority for families and daily drivers alike, especially in areas where road conditions can change quickly.
The Explorer includes:
Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®)
Lane Centering and Lane-Keeping System
Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Rear View Camera with available 360-degree view
These features help provide confidence whether you’re driving through town or on the highway.
2026 Ford Explorer Trims and Key Features
The 2026 Explorer lineup offers multiple trims designed to fit different needs and preferences.
Explorer Active
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine
- 13.2-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4
- Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features
- Comfortable cloth seating and modern interior layout
Explorer ST-Line
- Sport-inspired styling with black exterior accents
- Unique wheels and interior design elements
- Same strong performance with added visual upgrades
Explorer Platinum
- Premium interior with leather seating
- Advanced technology and driver-assist features
- B&O premium audio system
- Enhanced comfort for daily driving and long trips
Explorer ST
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 horsepower
- Sport-tuned suspension for improved handling
- Performance-focused design and features
- Ideal for drivers who want more power and responsiveness
Explorer Tremor
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine (3.0L V6 optional)
- 1.1-inch suspension lift with all-terrain tires
- Underbody skid plates and Torsen® rear differential
For most families in Marshall, the Active or Platinum trims provide the best balance of space, comfort, and value, while the ST offers a more performance-focused experience.
Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Right for You?
The Explorer is a strong choice if you need:
- • Three rows of seating for family or passengers
- • A comfortable SUV for daily commuting and long drives
- • Capability for towing and winter driving
- • Modern technology and safety features
It’s especially well-suited for drivers in Southwest Minnesota who need flexibility without moving into a larger SUV.
Real-World Driving Experience
From behind the wheel, the Explorer feels stable and composed. It handles well on highways like US-59 and remains comfortable during longer drives. The suspension absorbs uneven road surfaces effectively, which is useful when traveling between towns or on less-maintained roads. Steering feels controlled, and the overall ride is quiet for a vehicle in this class. For families and daily drivers, it strikes a balance between comfort, space, and performance.
Why Drivers in Marshall, MN Choose Kruse Motors
Kruse Motors serves drivers throughout Marshall and surrounding communities with a focus on helping customers find vehicles that fit their everyday needs. When you visit, you can:
- • Compare Explorer trims side by side
- • Explore current inventory
- • Get personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle
- • Review financing and trade-in options
Our team understands local driving conditions and helps you choose a vehicle that works long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Explorer in Marshall, MN
Yes. With three rows of seating, flexible cargo space, and advanced safety features, it’s a practical choice for families in Southwest Minnesota.
When properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, making it suitable for trailers and recreational equipment.
Yes. All-wheel drive is available and helps improve traction in snow and icy conditions common in Minnesota.
A standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine and an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6, depending on the trim level.
Yes. Its available AWD system and drive modes help it perform well in winter conditions.
Up to seven passengers, depending on configuration.
Yes, both are included with wireless capability.
The Active and Platinum trims are popular for their balance of comfort, features, and value.
Yes. It offers supportive seating, a quiet ride, and plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
You can visit Kruse Motors in Marshall, MN to explore available models and take a test drive.
Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer in Marshall, MN at Kruse Motors
If you are looking for a three-row SUV that fits your daily routine in Marshall and across Southwest Minnesota, the 2026 Ford Explorer is worth seeing in person. Visit Kruse Motors in Marshall, MN to explore available Explorer models, compare trims, and take a test drive on local roads like East College Drive and Highway 59. Our team can help you find the right configuration, walk you through available features, and assist with financing or trade-in options so you can choose the right SUV with confidence.
Kruse Motors
1651-61 East College Drive, Marshall, MN
Showroom Hours
Mon – Thur
8am - 7pm
Fri
8am - 6pm
Sat
8am - 4pm