2026 Ford Explorer Platinum SUV

$55,000$60,415 MSRP¹

Pilson Ford

Call 217-294-6910

2026 Ford Explorer Platinum: Elevate Your Everyday

Imagine pulling up to the Champaign Country Club in this stunning 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum, its Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat gleaming under the afternoon sun. Whether you're heading to a tee time or picking up the family after a day at the University of Illinois, this SUV makes a statement. It's more than just a vehicle; it's an extension of your lifestyle.

Performance & Capability

The heart of this Explorer Platinum is an EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 engine, delivering a potent 300 horsepower. Paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, you'll experience effortless acceleration and refined performance whether you're cruising down I-57 or navigating the backroads of Shelbyville. The Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive system provides confident traction in all conditions, giving you peace of mind during those unpredictable Illinois winters. The driver-selectable modes allow you to tailor the driving experience to your preferences, whether you're prioritizing fuel efficiency or maximizing performance. The aluminum engine block ensures durability and contributes to the vehicle's overall efficiency.

Technology & Connectivity

Stay connected and entertained on every journey with the Explorer Platinum's advanced technology suite. The centerpiece is a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen display powered by Ford's intuitive infotainment system. Seamlessly integrate your smartphone with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for access to your favorite apps, music, and contacts. The integrated navigation system ensures you'll always find the best route, whether you're heading to a meeting in Decatur or exploring new restaurants in Charleston. A premium Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers envelops you in rich, immersive audio, perfect for enjoying your favorite playlists or podcasts on long drives. Stay charged up with multiple USB ports conveniently located throughout the cabin.

Comfort & Interior

Step inside the Explorer Platinum and experience unparalleled comfort and luxury. Sink into the leather seating surfaces with tri-diamond perforated inserts, designed for ultimate relaxation. Both front seats offer heating and ventilation, ensuring year-round comfort regardless of the weather. The dual-zone automatic climate control allows you and your passengers to customize the temperature to your liking. With ample cargo space behind the third row, and even more when the PowerFold third-row seats are lowered, you'll have no trouble hauling luggage, golf clubs, or weekend getaway gear. The leather-wrapped dashboard and simulated wood trim add a touch of sophistication to the interior. Plus, with memory settings for the driver's seat and mirrors, you can always find your perfect driving position.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Your safety and the safety of your loved ones are paramount, and the Explorer Platinum is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. The Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking helps you avoid or mitigate potential collisions. Lane Keeping System gently guides you back into your lane if you start to drift. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, making highway merging safer and easier. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go maintains a safe following distance and can even bring you to a complete stop in traffic. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. With seven airbags strategically positioned throughout the cabin, the Explorer Platinum provides exceptional protection in the event of a collision.

Exterior & Design

The Explorer Platinum commands attention with its bold and sophisticated exterior design. The Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat paint shimmers in the sunlight, while the 21-inch bright machined-face aluminum wheels add a touch of elegance. The black grille with metal-look accents and body-colored bumpers create a cohesive and stylish look. The twin-panel moonroof floods the cabin with natural light, creating an open and airy feel. The rear lip spoiler adds a sporty touch, while the roof rails provide added versatility for carrying luggage or recreational equipment. You can find Ford Accessories at our Parts Center.

Key Highlights

This 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum offers a wealth of features designed to enhance your driving experience:

EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 Engine - Powerful and efficient performance.
Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive - Confident traction in all weather conditions.
13.2-inch Touchscreen Display - Intuitive infotainment and seamless connectivity.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - Effortless smartphone integration.
Bang & Olufsen Sound System - Premium audio experience.
Leather Seating Surfaces with Tri-Diamond Perforated Inserts - Luxurious comfort for all passengers.
Heated and Ventilated Front Seats - Year-round comfort.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go - Enhanced safety and convenience on the highway.
360-Degree Camera System - Effortless parking and maneuvering.
Twin-Panel Moonroof - Open and airy cabin feel.
PowerFold Third-Row Seats - Versatile cargo and passenger configurations.
Ford BlueCruise (1-Year Subscription) - Hands-free driving on pre-approved sections of divided highways.
21-inch Bright Machined-Face Aluminum Wheels - Stylish and eye-catching design.

Visit Us

Pilson Ford is conveniently located at 2000 Lake Land Blvd, Mattoon, IL 61938, easily accessible from Champaign, Decatur, Charleston, Tuscola, and Shelbyville. We invite you to visit our showroom to experience the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum for yourself. Call us at (888) 474-5766 to schedule a test drive, discuss financing options, or get a trade-in value for your current vehicle. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your needs and lifestyle. You can also apply for credit or browse our inventory online. We look forward to welcoming you to Pilson Ford! Get Directions to Pilson Ford

Build Codes: 21B| PANEL| PLTBDG| D| PIPNG| 600A| 44T| 99H| STDGV| STDRD| 64D| NONTR| DM| 43H| 91D| D4| 76U| FHEAC| 16B| AHQAB| 50N| K8H

All vehicle pricing includes all offers and incentives. Prices do not include additional fees and a government fee, taxes, finance charges, dealer documentation fees, emissions testing fees, or other fees. All prices, specifications, and availability are subject to change without notice. Contact dealer for the most current information.

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Warranty

3YR/36,000 BUMPER / BUMPER
5YR/60,000 POWERTRAIN
5YR/60,000 ROADSIDE ASSIST

Exterior

CLASS III TRAILER TOW PKG
EASY FUEL CAPLESS FILLER
FRT/RR SKID PLATE ELEMENTS
GRILLE - UNIQUE SATIN
HEADLAMPS - ADAPTIVE LED
LED SIGNATURE LIGHTING
MIRRORS-PWR/HTD/AUTO-FOLD SIG/APRCH LAMP/MEM/AUTODIM
PRIVACY GLASS - REAR DOORS
ROOF-RACK SIDE RAILS-SATIN
SATIN CHROME ACCENTS
TAILLAMPS/FOG LAMPS - LED
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
WIPERS - RAIN-SENSING

Functional

13.2" LCD TOUCHSCREEN
360-DEGREE CAMERA
5G MODEM
FORD CO-PILOT360ACTIVE2.0
FORD DIGITAL EXPERIENCE W/GOOGLE MAPS & PLAY STORE
HILL START ASSIST
KEYLESS ENTRY W/PUSH START
PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM
REMOTE START SYSTEM
SELECTABLE DRIVE MODES
SIRIUSXM W/360L- NA AK&HI
WI-FI HOTSPOT
WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO

Interior

"EXPLORER" FRNT FLOOR MATS
110V/150W AC POWER OUTLET
12.3" LCD DIGITAL CLUSTER
2ND ROW HEATED SEATS
AMBIENT LIGHTING
AUTO-DIM REARVIEW MIRROR
HTD LTH WRAPPED STEER WHL W/LOGO, MOUNTED CONTROLS AND TILT/TELE STR COLUMN
HTD/VENTILATED FRT SEATS
MULTICONTOUR FRONT SEATS W/ ACTIVE MOTION
POWERFOLD 3RD ROW SEAT
UNIVSL GARAGE DOOR OPENER
USB-C - ALL ROWS

Safety

ADVANCETRAC WITH RSC
AIRBAG - DRIVER KNEE
AIRBAGS - DUAL STAGE FRONT
AIRBAGS - FRONT SEAT MOUNTED SIDE IMPACT
AIRBAGS - SAFETY CANOPY
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
INDIV TIRE PRESS MONIT SYS
LATCH CHILD SAFETY SYSTEM
PERIMETER ALARM
PERSONAL SAFETY SYSTEM

Standard Features

Drive: 4WD
Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
ExteriorColor: Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
InteriorColor: Salt Crystal Gray
RapidSpec: Platinum™ (600A)
SeatType: Leather Seating Surfaces with Micro-Perforated Inserts
SpecialPackage: BlueCruise (Equipment + 1 Year + 90-Day Plan)
SpecialPackage: BlueCruise Hardware
SpecialPackage: Class III Trailer Tow Package
SpecialPackage: Discount - Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade
SpecialPackage: Discount – 4WD Platinum™ with Lux Leather Package and BlueCruise (One-Time Purchase)
SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (One-time purchase − 7 years)
SpecialPackage: Lux Leather Package
SpecialPackage: Premium Package
Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
WheelMaterial: 21" Bright Machined Aluminum Wheels with Tarnish Dark Pockets
WheelSize: 21" Bright Machined Aluminum Wheels with Tarnish Dark Pockets

Video walkaround
Experience this vehicle via video call and ask us any questions you have.
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Home delivery
We’ll deliver the vehicle you want to your home and help you complete the paperwork.
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EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM

A name you can trust

Pilson Ford is dedicated to your satisfaction before, during, and after your purchase. We'll go the extra mile to take care of you.

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Included Options

Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 -inc: auto start-stop technology
GVWR: 5,940 lbs
Transmission w/Driver Selectable Mode

Automatic Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive
3.58 axle ratio
Battery w/Run Down Protection
Regenerative Alternator
Class III Towing Equipment -inc: Hitch and Trailer Sway Control
Trailer Wiring Harness
2 Skid Plates
Gas-Pressurized Shock Absorbers
Front And Rear Anti-Roll Bars
Electric Power-Assist Speed-Sensing Steering
17.9 Gal. Fuel Tank
Quasi-Dual Stainless Steel Exhaust
Auto Locking Hubs
Strut Front Suspension w/Coil Springs
Multi-Link Rear Suspension w/Coil Springs
4-Wheel Disc Brakes w/4-Wheel ABS, Front And Rear Vented Discs, Brake Assist, Hill Descent Control, Hill Hold Control and Electric Parking Brake
Tire mobility kit
Body-Colored Front Bumper w/Metal-Look Bumper Insert
Body-Colored Rear Bumper w/Black Rub Strip/Fascia Accent and Metal-Look Bumper Insert
Black Side Windows Trim, Black Front Windshield Trim and Black Rear Window Trim
Body-Colored Door Handles
Chrome Bodyside Insert, Black Bodyside Cladding and Black Wheel Well Trim
Black Power Heated Side Mirrors w/Driver Auto Dimming, Power Folding and Turn Signal Indicator
Fixed Rear Window w/Wiper, Heated Wiper Park and Defroster
Deep Tinted Glass
Speed Sensitive Rain Detecting Variable Intermittent Wipers
Galvanized Steel/Aluminum Panels
Lip Spoiler
Black Grille w/Metal-Look Accents
Power Liftgate Rear Cargo Access
Front Fog Lamps
Perimeter/Approach Lights
LED Brakelights
Headlights-Automatic Highbeams
Radio w/Seek-Scan, Clock, Steering Wheel Controls, Radio Data System, External Memory Control and Internal Memory
Streaming Audio
Integrated Roof Antenna
14 Speakers
Bluetooth Wireless Phone Connectivity
2 LCD Monitors In The Front
Real-Time Traffic Display
Driver Seat
Passenger Seat
Front Center Armrest and Rear Seat Mounted Armrest Outboard Only
Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
Ford Connect 5G Mobile Hotspot Internet Access
Heated Leather Steering Wheel
Illuminated Front Cupholder
Rear Cupholder
Compass
Remote Releases -Inc: Power Cargo Access
Garage Door Transmitter
Cruise Control w/Steering Wheel Controls
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
HVAC -inc: Underseat Ducts and Headliner/Pillar Ducts
Locking glove box
Driver foot rest
Full Cloth Headliner
Interior Trim -inc: Simulated Wood/Metal-Look Instrument Panel Insert, Simulated Wood/Metal-Look Door Panel Insert, Piano Black Console Insert, Chrome/Metal-Look Interior Accents and Leather Upholstered Dashboard
Leather Door Trim Insert
Driver And Passenger Visor Vanity Mirrors w/Driver And Passenger Illumination, Driver And Passenger Auxiliary Mirror
Day-Night Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
Full Floor Console w/Covered Storage, Mini Overhead Console w/Storage, 3 12V DC Power Outlets and 1 Interior 120V AC Power Outlet
Front And Rear Map Lights
Fade-To-Off Interior Lighting
Carpet Floor Trim
Trunk/Hatch Auto-Latch
Cargo Area Concealed Storage
Cargo Features -inc: Tire Mobility Kit
Cargo Space Lights
Integrated Navigation System w/Voice Activation
Driver / Passenger And Rear Door Bins
Delayed Accessory Power
Driver Information Center
Redundant Digital Speedometer
Outside Temp Gauge
Digital/Analog Appearance
Manual w/Tilt Front Head Restraints and Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
2 Seatback Storage Pockets
Perimeter Alarm
Securilock Anti-Theft Ignition (pats) Immobilizer
3 12V DC Power Outlets
Air Filtration
3 12V DC Power Outlets and 1 Interior 120V AC Power Outlet
BlueCruise (90-day free trial)
Side Impact Beams
Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
Forward and Reverse Sensing System Front And Rear Parking Sensors
BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) Blind Spot
PCA with AEB and Intersection Assist
Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
Aerial View Camera System
Collision Mitigation-Front
Driver Monitoring-Alert
Evasion Assist
Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning
Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Front Airbags
Safety Canopy System Curtain 1st, 2nd And 3rd Row Airbags
Airbag Occupancy Sensor
Driver knee airbag
Mykey System -inc: Top Speed Limiter, Audio Volume Limiter, Early Low Fuel Warning, Programmable Sound Chimes and Beltminder w/Audio Mute
Rear child safety locks
Outboard Front Lap And Shoulder Safety Belts -inc: Height Adjusters and Pretensioners
Back-Up Camera w/Washer
Front Camera w/Washer
Left Side Camera
Right Side Camera

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week. All estimated monthly payments are with approved credit from lending institution.

Tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment extra. New and unused models include all applicable factory rebates. Must qualify for some rebates. All prices, specifications, and availability subject to change without notice. Despite our efforts to provide the most current, accurate information, errors may appear from time to time. Please contact us for the most current information. Best Price Guarantee Policy: Pilson's Best Price Guarantee Price policy is available on new in-stock vehicles only. Customer must present to Pilson a Purchase Order from another local, non-Pilson, franchise dealer and located no more than 150 miles from Pilson's location, selling the same make, model, trim and MSRP as Pilson. Competition Purchase Order must be signed by both the Guest and competing dealer management for an identical vehicle to the one in Pilson's inventory. Competitor's Purchase Order MUST include VIN number. Price is inclusive of all applicable OEM rebates and OEM incentives; and those OEM offers must be currently available and not expired. These types vehicles are excluded from qualifying; current or former demonstrator, loaner, damaged (hail, etc), special event or limited edition models. Customer must pay for non-factory installed equipment. If Pilson cannot beat the competitions written offer, Pilson will provide the customer with a FREE 7 night resort stay (one week getaway package) provided by Odenza Marketing Group.