2026 Ford Explorer Active SUV

$42,000$49,220 MSRP¹

Pilson Ford

Call 217-294-6910

2026 Ford Explorer Active w/200A Pkg: Your Adventure Starts Here

Imagine loading up the family in your spacious and stylish Ford Explorer, ready for a weekend getaway to Lake Shelbyville. Or picture yourself confidently navigating a snowy winter morning commute in Decatur, knowing you're equipped with the best in safety and performance. This 2026 Ford Explorer Active is designed to fit seamlessly into your active lifestyle.

Performance & Capability

The 2026 Ford Explorer Active is engineered to handle whatever life throws your way. Its robust EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 engine delivers a spirited 300 horsepower, providing ample power for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient gear changes, optimizing both performance and fuel economy. With Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive, you'll experience enhanced traction and control, making those unpredictable Illinois winters a breeze. Whether you're navigating slick city streets or venturing onto a gravel road, the Explorer's driver-selectable drivetrain modes allow you to tailor the vehicle's performance to the terrain. Planning a trip with a camper or boat? The Explorer boasts a Class III tow rating and comes equipped with trailer sway control and a trailer wiring harness, giving you the confidence to haul your gear safely. The aluminum engine block and longitudinal engine mounting contribute to the Explorer's balanced handling and responsive driving experience.

Technology & Connectivity

Stay connected and entertained on every journey with the 2026 Ford Explorer Active's advanced technology features. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a vibrant 13.2-inch primary display touchscreen, offering intuitive control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Seamlessly integrate your smartphone with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for access to your favorite apps, music, and contacts. The integrated navigation system with voice activation ensures you'll always find the best route, whether you're exploring new areas or heading to a familiar destination. Keep your devices charged with the 4 USB ports conveniently located throughout the cabin. The 12.30-inch digital gauge cluster provides clear and customizable vehicle information at a glance. Enjoy crystal-clear audio through the standard sound system, and stream your favorite playlists wirelessly via Bluetooth audio streaming. Plus, the Ford Pass at Pilson's system provides a 5G mobile hotspot, ensuring everyone stays connected on those long road trips.

Comfort & Interior

The interior of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active is designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Sink into the supportive ActiveX leatherette front seats, and enjoy personalized comfort with the heated front seats and heated steering wheel on chilly mornings. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that everyone stays comfortable, no matter the weather. The power liftgate makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze, and the rear climate control system with separate controls keeps rear passengers happy on long journeys. With the third-row fold-into-floor seats, you can easily adapt the interior to accommodate passengers or cargo. The power driver seat with lumbar support allows you to find the perfect driving position. The remote start system ensures your Explorer is always ready to go, pre-heated or cooled to your preferred temperature.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Your safety is a top priority in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active. Equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, this SUV provides added peace of mind on every drive. The Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go maintains a safe following distance and can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic. The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, while the Lane-Keeping System helps you stay centered in your lane. Automatic Emergency Braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an accident. The Rear Cross-Traffic Braking system enhances awareness when backing up. With seven airbags strategically positioned throughout the cabin, the Explorer provides comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision.

Exterior & Design

The 2026 Ford Explorer Active boasts a bold and modern exterior design that commands attention. The Space Silver metallic paint finish exudes sophistication, while the black grille with chrome accents adds a touch of refinement. The LED headlights provide excellent visibility, and the rear lip spoiler enhances the vehicle's sporty profile. The Explorer rides on stylish 20-inch carbonized gray-painted wheels that complement its overall design. Roof rails add versatility for carrying extra cargo. The body-colored bumpers create a seamless and cohesive look, while the black wheel well trim adds a rugged touch. If you're looking for Ford Accessories, check out our Parts Center.

Key Highlights

Here are some of the standout features that make the 2026 Ford Explorer Active the perfect SUV for your lifestyle:

EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 Engine - Powerful and efficient performance for all your driving needs.
Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive - Enhanced traction and control in all weather conditions.
10-Speed Automatic Transmission - Smooth and efficient gear changes for optimal performance.
13.2-inch Touchscreen Display - Intuitive control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatibility - Seamless smartphone integration for on-the-go connectivity.
Heated Front Seats and Steering Wheel - Enhanced comfort during colder months.
Adaptive Cruise Control - Maintains a safe following distance and reduces driver fatigue.
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) - Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots for safer lane changes.
Lane-Keeping System - Helps you stay centered in your lane for added safety.
Power Liftgate - Convenient access to the cargo area.
Third-Row Seating - Versatile seating for up to seven passengers.
Rear Climate Control - Keeps rear passengers comfortable on long journeys.
Space Silver Metallic Paint - Stylish and eye-catching exterior finish.
20-inch Carbonized Gray-Painted Wheels - Adds a touch of sportiness to the Explorer's design.
FordPass Connect with 5G Wi-Fi Hotspot - Stay connected on the go.

Visit Us

Pilson Ford is conveniently located to serve customers from Champaign, Tuscola, and all surrounding areas. We're just a short drive away, ready to help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your needs. Get Directions to Pilson Ford at 2000 Lake Land Blvd, Mattoon, IL 61938, or Call us at (888) 474-5766 to Schedule Service a test drive. You can also Appy for Financing or Value Your Trade online. We look forward to seeing you at Pilson Ford!

Build Codes: 68A| 2HVAC| HEATW| S| FASCIA| RMSTRT| 200A| 44T| 99H| STDGV| STDRD| A3| SH| 76U| 64Y| 153| 91M| K8D

Tax, title, license and DOC fees extra. New/unused vehicles include applicable rebates and incentives. Prices subject to change without notice. See dealer for details.

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
FULLY AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS
MIRRORS-MAN-FOLD DUAL PWR HEATED WITH APPROACH LAMPS
POWER LIFTGATE
PRIVACY GLASS - REAR DOORS
REAR SPOILER, BODY COLOR
ROOF-RACK SIDE RAILS-BLACK
TAILLAMPS-LED
TRAILER SWAY CONTROL
VARIABLE INTERVAL WIPERS

Functional

13.2" LCD TOUCHSCREEN
4-DR INTELL ACCESS LOCK/ UNLOCK W/PUSH-BUTTON START
5G MODEM
AM/FM STEREO W/6 SPEAKERS
FORD CO-PILOT360 ASSIST+
FORD DIGITAL EXPERIENCE W/GOOGLE MAPS & PLAY STORE
REAR VIEW CAMERA
SELECTABLE DRIVE MODES
SIRIUSXM W/360L- NA AK&HI
WI-FI HOTSPOT
WIRELESS APPLE CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTO

Interior

12.3" LCD DIGITAL CLUSTER
1TOUCH UP/DOWN DR/PASS WIN
3RD ROW - 50/50 FOLD FLAT
DUAL ILLUM VIS VANITY MIRR
FRONT ROW HEATED SEATS
POWER DRIVER'S SEAT
POWERPOINTS - 12V
ROTARY GEAR SHIFT DIAL
TILT/TELESCOPING STEERING W/WHEEL MOUNTED CONTROLS
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: Space White Metallic
InteriorColor: Dark Space Gray
RapidSpec: Active (200A)
SeatType: ActiveX® Seating Material
SpecialPackage: Active Comfort Package
SpecialPackage: Class III Trailer Tow Package
SpecialPackage: Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+
SpecialPackage: Ford Connectivity Package (1-year Included)
Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Transmission
WheelMaterial: 20” Carbonized Gray-painted Aluminum Wheels
WheelSize: 20” Carbonized Gray-painted Aluminum Wheels

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
FULLY AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS

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
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
Tires: P255/65R18 AS BSW
Tire mobility kit
Body-Colored Rear Bumper w/Black Rub Strip/Fascia Accent
Body-Colored Front Bumper w/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/Manual Folding
Fixed Rear Window w/Wiper, Heated Wiper Park and Defroster
Deep Tinted Glass
Speed Sensitive Variable Intermittent Wipers
Galvanized Steel/Aluminum Panels
Lip Spoiler
Black Grille w/Chrome Accents
Power Liftgate Rear Cargo Access
Perimeter/Approach Lights
LED Brakelights
Headlights-Automatic Highbeams
Radio w/Seek-Scan, Clock, Steering Wheel Controls, External Memory Control and Internal Memory
Streaming Audio
Integrated Roof Antenna
6 Speakers
Bluetooth Wireless Phone Connectivity
2 LCD Monitors In The Front
Real-Time Traffic Display
Passenger Seat
Front Center Armrest and Rear Seat Mounted Armrest Outboard Only
Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
Ford Connect 5G Mobile Hotspot Internet Access
Leatherette Steering Wheel
Front Cupholder
Rear Cupholder
Compass
Remote Releases -Inc: Power Cargo Access
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: Piano Black/Metal-Look Instrument Panel Insert, Piano Black/Metal-Look Door Panel Insert, Piano Black Console Insert and Chrome/Metal-Look Interior Accents
Cloth Door Trim Insert
Day-Night Rearview Mirror
Driver And Passenger Visor Vanity Mirrors w/Driver And Passenger Illumination, Driver And Passenger Auxiliary Mirror
Full Floor Console w/Covered Storage, Mini Overhead Console w/Storage and 3 12V DC Power Outlets
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
2 Seatback Storage Pockets
Manual Adjustable Front Head Restraints and Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
Perimeter Alarm
Securilock Anti-Theft Ignition (pats) Immobilizer
3 12V DC Power Outlets
Air Filtration
Lane Centering
Side Impact Beams
Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) Blind Spot
PCA with AEB and Intersection Assist
Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
Collision Mitigation-Front
Driver Monitoring-Alert
Evasion Assist
Reverse Sensing System Rear Parking Sensors
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

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.