Shopping for a family SUV in Winston-Salem? The 2027 Ford Explorer just landed at Parkway Ford, and it brings a fresh lineup of trims, smarter tech, and serious capability to drivers across Winston-Salem, Greensboro, High Point, and Statesville. Here is everything worth knowing about the new Ford Explorer before your test drive.
What is New for 2027?
The 2027 Ford Explorer arrives with several updates designed to enhance technology, comfort, and everyday usability.
- The Ford Security Package now spans the entire lineup, with one year of coverage included from the warranty start date.
- Two fresh exterior colors join the palette: Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat.
- The Platinum trim gains an available 3.0L Ultimate Package, pairing the EcoBoost V6 with premium leather, exclusive 21-inch wheels, and a chrome quad-tipped exhaust.
- ST models get a new Sinister Package, featuring gloss black wheels, amber accent lighting, and blacked-out ST badging.
The lineup offers three-row seating for up to seven, 85.8 cubic feet of max cargo space, and towing capacity reaching 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Performance and Exterior: Built for Piedmont Roads
The 2027 Ford Explorer offers two EcoBoost engine choices, each paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the ST comes standard with a 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivering up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Beyond engine output, the Explorer lineup adds several features designed to support traction, towing, and different driving conditions:
- Rear-wheel drive standard on Active, ST-Line, and Platinum
- Intelligent 4WD available on select trims and standard on Tremor
- Six selectable drive modes
- Standard Class III Trailer Tow Package on every trim
For shoppers who plan to venture beyond pavement around Statesville or elsewhere in the Triad, the Tremor adds a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, tuned suspension, increased ride height, all-terrain tires, and steel underbody protection. The ST takes a sportier approach with a performance-tuned suspension, red-painted performance brakes, and 21-inch wheels.
Step Inside: A Cabin Built Around You
Step inside the new Ford Explorer, and the technology immediately stands out. The Ford Digital Experience brings key information and entertainment together with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come standard, helping keep your phone connected without extra cords on drives around Winston-Salem and the Triad.
Every Explorer also offers family-friendly comfort and convenience with:
- Eight USB ports across all three rows
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Heated front seats
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- Available second-row bench seating on most trims for up to seven passengers
When you need more room for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear, the seating can quickly adapt. Platinum and ST models add standard PowerFold third-row seats for easier access to the cargo area.
The Ford Explorer interior also offers several audio and comfort upgrades depending on the configuration:
- 10-speaker B&O Sound System on ST-Line, Tremor, and ST
- 980-watt, 14-speaker B&O Sound System on Platinum
- Available multicontour front seats with Active Motion massage
- Available ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats
- Available ambient lighting
- Available premium leather seating
- Available panoramic Vista Roof
How the Explorer Keeps You Protected
The 2027 Ford Explorer comes equipped with a strong mix of safety and driver-assist technology for everyday driving. The Active includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, while the ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST step up to Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0.
Standard safety features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane-Keeping Assist
- Lane-Keeping Alert
- Driver Alert
- Rear View Camera with Backup Assist Grid Lines
- Rear parking sensors
- Higher trims, including the ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST, add even more visibility and assistance with:
- 360-Degree Camera
- Front parking sensors
- Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, with equipment and plan availability varying by model
A Trim for Every Kind of Explorer
Five distinct new Explorer trims give Winston-Salem shoppers plenty of room to find their fit:
- Active: The entry point pairs the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with rear-wheel drive, the Ford Digital Experience, heated front seats, a power liftgate, and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+.
- ST-Line: Sporty styling meets substance here, with 20-inch black-painted wheels, a 360-degree camera, available BlueCruise, a 10-speaker B&O Sound System, and ActiveX-trimmed seats with red stitching.
- Tremor: Built for adventure outside Statesville and beyond, Tremor brings standard Intelligent 4WD, an Off-Road drive mode, a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, and all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels.
- Platinum: The luxury pick offers heated, ventilated, massaging front seats, a 980-watt 14-speaker B&O system, PowerFold third-row seats, an Open On Approach liftgate, and standard BlueCruise equipment.
- ST: The performance flagship packs the 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost V6, a sport-tuned suspension, red-painted performance brakes, and 21-inch Magnetite-painted wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow?
Every trim comes with a standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, supporting up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
How many people fit inside the Explorer?
Three-row seating accommodates 6 or 7 passengers, depending on trim and seating configuration.
Which Explorer trim offers the most horsepower?
The ST trim's 3.0L EcoBoost V6 produces up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Does the Explorer offer hands-free driving?
Yes. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is available, with equipment and plan availability varying by model.
Meet the 2027 Ford Explorer at Parkway Ford
The 2027 Ford Explorer brings real upgrades to comfort, safety, and capability, giving drivers across the Triad a strong reason to consider making it their next vehicle. Our team in Winston-Salem is ready to match you with the trim that fits best into your life. Stop by, take a test drive at Parkway Ford, and drive home in the newest Explorer on the lot.