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2026 Ford Explorer Trims

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The 2026 Ford Explorer Has Range — And Yes, That’s a Compliment

Some SUVs try to be everything and end up feeling vague. The 2026 Ford Explorer doesn’t have that problem. It shows up with five very different trims, each with a clear personality. One feels tailor-made for school drop-offs and grocery runs. Another looks like it belongs in a national park parking lot. One absolutely wants you to take the long way home.

If you’re shopping for a new Explorer at University Ford in Huntington, WV, the trim you choose sets the tone for how every drive feels — not just how the SUV looks in your driveway.

2026 Explorer Active: Calm, Capable, and Family-Approved

The Explorer Active is proof that “entry-level” doesn’t mean stripped down. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.3L engine with 300 horsepower, which is more than enough for highway merges, weekend road trips, and everything in between.

Inside, it feels clean and modern, not basic. A digital gauge cluster and a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In keep things intuitive. Three-row seating comes standard, along with three-zone climate control — which parents will immediately appreciate.

Ford’s Co-Pilot360 Assist+ safety suite is included here, so features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and blind-spot monitoring are already part of the package.

Best for: Busy families who want space, tech, and comfort without stretching the budget.

2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line: Same Brains, Better Outfit

The Explorer ST-Line is the trim that clearly owns more than one pair of sunglasses.

It keeps the same powertrain as the Active but leans into style with blacked-out exterior accents, a sportier grille, and bold 20-inch wheels. Inside, you’ll find black seating with red stitching and a vibe that feels intentional, not flashy.

This trim also steps up the tech game with a surround-view camera, front and side parking sensors, and a 10-speaker B&O sound system. It’s practical, but it looks good doing everyday things.

Best for: Drivers who want their SUV to feel polished and confident, even in a grocery store parking lot.

2026 Explorer Tremor: The “We Can Take That Road” Option

The Explorer Tremor exists for people who don’t stop driving when the pavement ends.

A factory lift, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a limited-slip rear differential give it real trail credibility. Orange accents and auxiliary grille lights make it easy to spot — and yes, that’s on purpose.

You can also step up to the available 3.0L V6, which delivers 400 horsepower and serious torque. Inside, it’s still very much an Explorer: heated and ventilated front seats, heated second row, and space for the whole crew.

Best for: Outdoor-leaning drivers who want adventure gear without giving up comfort.

2026 Explorer ST: The One With the Attitude

The Explorer ST doesn’t whisper. It announces itself.

This trim makes the 400-horsepower V6 standard, pairs it with a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and paddle shifters, and then casually reminds you it still seats six with heated captain’s chairs in the second row.

It’s quick, planted, and surprisingly fun for a three-row SUV. Add in the 14-speaker B&O sound system and ventilated front seats, and suddenly your commute feels very different.

Best for: Drivers who love performance but still need space for real life.

2026 Explorer Platinum: Quiet Luxury, Explorer-Style

The Explorer Platinum is refined without being showy. Think premium materials, thoughtful details, and comfort that feels earned.

Leather upholstery with suede accents, a twin-panel moonroof, adaptive headlights, and a beautifully finished interior set it apart. The V6 engine is optional here, giving luxury-focused buyers flexibility without forcing extra power they may not need.

It’s calm, composed, and incredibly comfortable — especially on longer drives.

Best for: Drivers who value comfort, craftsmanship, and a smooth ride above all else.

Life With a 2026 Explorer in the Huntington Tri-State

Now picture the 2026 Explorer in its natural habitat: your life in the Huntington tri-state area. Morning school runs through town, quick drives over to Barboursville for shopping, Saturdays at Marshall games, and Sunday cruises along the Ohio River. The Active feels right at home hauling kids and gear. The ST-Line looks perfectly on-brand parked outside your favorite downtown coffee spot. The Tremor begs for long weekends at Beech Fork Lake or day trips into Kentucky and Ohio. The ST turns I-64 into your personal confidence zone, and the Platinum makes even a simple run from Huntington to Ashland feel like a mini getaway.

No matter how your week is split between Huntington, Barboursville, Ashland, and everywhere in between, there’s an Explorer trim that fits the way you actually live here.

So… Which 2026 Explorer Fits You?

Here’s the short version:

  • Active keeps life organized and comfortable
  • ST-Line adds edge without going full performance
  • Tremor handles dirt, gravel, and weekends away
  • ST brings serious power and presence
  • Platinum leans into luxury and refinement

These trims don’t feel like good, better, best. They feel like distinct personalities that suit different kinds of drivers in and around Huntington.

See the 2026 Ford Explorer at University Ford

The best way to choose a trim is to spend time behind the wheel. At University Ford in Huntington, WV, our team can walk you through each 2026 Explorer, answer real-world questions, and help you land on the version that fits how you actually drive in the tri-state area.

The 2026 Ford Explorer doesn’t try to be everything at once. It gives you options — and lets you decide how bold, adventurous, or refined your SUV story should be.

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2026 Ford Bronco daily driving near Huntington WV

2026 Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler

HERO Appalachian Adventure Comparison 2026 Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler Two removable-roof legends built for gravel roads, mountain trails, creek crossings, and weekends that rarely stay on pavement. The Wrangler keeps its old-school trail toughness. The Bronco answers with rugged capability, smarter tech, and a smoother everyday drive. Shop Bronco Inventory Compare Bronco Trims 2 Icons Compared 4x4 Adventure Ready 418 Bronco Raptor HP Open Air Freedom Trail Guide Bronco vs Wrangler Quick Comparison Daily Driving Off-Road Capability Open-Air Freedom Interior & Technology Which SUV Fits You? FAQ Trail-Tested Take One Is Built for the Weekend. One Is Built for the Whole Week. The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler both look right at home with mud on the tires and a cooler in the back. The difference shows up when the trail ends and the highway home begins. The Bronco brings the grit you want for Appalachian backroads, steep gravel climbs, muddy cut-throughs, and camping weekends without feeling rough around the edges Monday morning. The Wrangler keeps its old-school Jeep toughness, but the Bronco feels more ready for real life between adventures. Real-World Winner The Ford Bronco is the stronger pick for many shoppers who want trail capability without making every weekday commute feel like a trail ride. The Wrangler is still an icon, but the Bronco feels fresher, more modern, and easier to enjoy as both an adventure SUV and a daily driver. 2026 Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler Comparison The Bronco and Wrangler are natural rivals because both offer 4x4 capability, removable roof options, and serious off-road credibility. The difference comes down to personality. Bronco feels more modern and livable. Wrangler feels more traditional and raw. Category Ford Bronco Jeep Wrangler Daily Driving More refined and comfortable More rugged and traditional Off-Road Feel Confident and modern Raw and old-school Open-Air Experience Removable doors and roof Removable doors and roof Technology Larger modern displays and driver tech Simpler and more traditional layout Best For Adventure plus everyday comfort Jeep heritage and hardcore trail culture Daily Driver or Weekend Toy? Which One Feels Better to Actually Live With? The Wrangler has charm, no doubt. It feels mechanical, classic, and unmistakably Jeep. But that same raw personality can make it feel less relaxed during long highway drives or everyday errands. The Bronco feels like Ford asked a very smart question: what if an off-road SUV could still feel modern on Monday morning? Around Huntington, Barboursville, Ashland, and Ironton, that matters. You need something fun enough for weekends but comfortable enough for normal life. Built for Dirt, Not Just Driveways Off-Road Capability Without the Tradeoffs Both SUVs can get dirty. That's the whole point. Wrangler has decades of trail credibility, while Bronco brings its own serious off-road hardware with available features like the Sasquatch Package, advanced 4x4 systems, GOAT Modes, Badlands capability, and the wild Bronco Raptor. The difference is balance. Bronco gives you the confidence to head toward the trail without feeling like you sacrificed the drive back home. Remove the Roof. Keep the Memories. Open-Air Freedom Hits Different The Bronco and Wrangler both let you remove doors and roof panels, which means both can turn an ordinary summer drive into something that feels a little more alive. The Wrangler has the heritage. The Bronco brings that same open-air feeling with a newer, fresher attitude. A clean Bronco with the doors off on a warm West Virginia afternoon feels like an event. It's part SUV, part weekend plan, and part conversation starter. The One That Feels More Modern Interior and Technology This is where the Bronco makes a strong case for itself. It feels rugged without feeling dated. Available technology, smart displays, Ford trail features, and an intuitive cabin layout help make the Bronco feel easier to enjoy every day. The Wrangler has improved a lot over the years, but it still leans into a more traditional Jeep personality. Some shoppers love that. Others want their adventure SUV to feel a little more polished without losing its edge. Shopper Question Bronco Advantage Wrangler Advantage Better for daily driving? Bronco feels more composed, modern, and road-trip friendly. Wrangler appeals to drivers who enjoy a more rugged everyday feel. More personality? Bronco feels fresh, bold, and still a little rebellious. Wrangler has classic Jeep character and loyal community appeal. Better off-road? Bronco Badlands, Sasquatch, and Raptor trims offer serious factory off-road capability. Wrangler Rubicon models remain highly respected for technical trails. More modern? Bronco wins for shoppers who want a newer-feeling cabin and modern Ford tech. Wrangler keeps more of its traditional Jeep identity. What Type of Driver Are You? This is where the Bronco vs Wrangler decision gets easier. Forget the spec-sheet standoff for a second. Think about how you actually drive. Choose the Ford Bronco If... You want trail capability without giving up daily comfort. You like modern tech and a cabin that feels current. You want an SUV that works for commuting, errands, road trips, and weekend escapes. You love rugged style but still want a polished driving experience. You want trims ranging from practical Big Bend to wild Raptor. Shop Bronco Inventory Consider the Jeep Wrangler If... You're loyal to Jeep culture and Wrangler heritage. You like a more traditional, raw off-road SUV feel. You prioritize Jeep customization and community. You don't mind a firmer, more old-school everyday ride. You want the classic Wrangler look above everything else. Still curious? Test drive a Bronco first. It may surprise you. University Ford Pick The Bronco is the better fit for shoppers who want adventure without making life harder during the week. It has the style, the open-air fun, the 4x4 confidence, and the everyday comfort that makes it feel easier to own long term. Two Icons. One Test Drive Can Decide It. Shop the Ford Bronco at University Ford University Ford proudly helps drivers from Huntington, Barboursville, Ashland, Hurricane, Ironton, and the surrounding Tri-State area compare Bronco trims, available inventory, financing options, and trade-in values. If you're torn between the Bronco and Wrangler, start with a Bronco test drive and feel the difference for yourself. View Bronco Inventory Compare Bronco Trims Apply for Financing 2026 Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler FAQs Is the Ford Bronco better than the Jeep Wrangler for daily driving? For many shoppers, yes. The Ford Bronco feels more modern and composed for everyday driving, while the Jeep Wrangler has a more traditional rugged feel. If you want an SUV that can handle commuting, road trips, and weekend trails, the Bronco is a strong fit. Which is better off-road, Bronco or Wrangler? Both are highly capable off-road SUVs. The Wrangler has long-standing trail credibility, while the Bronco offers serious factory capability through trims and packages like Badlands, Sasquatch, and Raptor. The better choice depends on how extreme your trail plans are and how much comfort you want on the road. Does the Ford Bronco have removable doors and roof like the Jeep Wrangler? Yes. The Ford Bronco offers removable doors and roof options, giving drivers the open-air experience that makes SUVs like the Bronco and Wrangler so much fun in warm weather. Which has better technology, Bronco or Wrangler? The Ford Bronco feels especially strong for shoppers who want modern technology, trail-focused features, and an intuitive cabin layout. Wrangler offers improved tech too, but Bronco has a fresher overall feel for many drivers. Where can I compare the Ford Bronco near Ashland, KY? Drivers near Ashland, KY can compare and shop the Ford Bronco at University Ford in Huntington, WV. University Ford also serves drivers from Barboursville, Hurricane, Ironton, and surrounding Tri-State communities.

2026 Ford SUVs at University Ford

Meet the 2026 Ford SUV Lineup at University Ford Shopping for a new Ford SUV in Huntington, WV? The 2026 Ford SUV lineup gives drivers plenty to choose from, including the compact Ford Escape, the family-ready Ford Explorer, the full-size Ford Expedition, and the extended-length Ford Expedition MAX. Each model serves a different kind of driver, so the best choice comes down to space, seating, cargo needs, towing plans, and daily driving comfort. At University Ford, we help drivers from Huntington, Barboursville, Ashland, Hurricane, and nearby communities compare Ford SUVs in a simple, practical way. Here’s a closer look at the 2026 Ford SUV lineup and the trims available for each model. 2026 Ford Escape: Compact, Efficient, and Easy to Drive The 2026 Ford Escape is a smart pick for drivers who want a compact SUV that feels easy to park, efficient on daily drives, and flexible enough for errands, commuting, and weekend plans. It is also confirmed to be the final year of production for the Escape nameplate, making now a great time to shop for this familiar Ford favorite. 2026 Ford Escape Trims Active - A practical starting point with the everyday features most drivers want. ST-Line - Adds sport-inspired styling and a more athletic look. ST-Line Select - Builds on the ST-Line with added comfort and capability features. ST-Line Elite - A more premium version of the sporty Escape experience. Platinum - Adds upscale details, advanced tech, and extra refinement. Plug-In Hybrid - A smart choice for drivers who want added electric driving flexibility. Best Fit Drivers who want a compact SUV that is efficient, comfortable, and easy to live with every day. Shop 2026 Ford Escape Inventory 2026 Ford Explorer: A Midsize SUV Built for Busy Families The 2026 Ford Explorer is a great middle-ground SUV for families who need three-row seating but do not want to move into a full-size model. It offers flexible passenger space, strong performance, available towing capability, and modern technology that works well for school drop-offs, work commutes, road trips, and everything in between. 2026 Ford Explorer Trims Active - A well-equipped trim with the essentials families appreciate. ST-Line - Adds sporty design details and a bolder road presence. Platinum - Brings premium comfort, upgraded materials, and more refined features. ST - The performance-focused Explorer with extra power and sport-tuned confidence. Best Fit Families who need three rows, flexible seating, and a balance of space and drivability. Shop 2026 Ford Explorer Inventory 2026 Ford Expedition: Full-Size Space and Serious Capability The 2026 Ford Expedition is built for drivers who need more room, more strength, and more confidence from their SUV. With three rows of seating, impressive towing ability, and a spacious cabin, the Expedition is designed for larger families, frequent travelers, and drivers who need an SUV that can handle people, gear, and weekend plans without feeling maxed out. 2026 Ford Expedition Trims Active - A strong full-size SUV foundation with family-friendly features. Platinum - Adds premium comfort, advanced technology, and upscale interior details. King Ranch - Features distinctive design, rich materials, and signature styling. Tremor - Built for drivers who want more off-road attitude and rugged capability. Best Fit Larger families or drivers who tow often and need full-size capability and space. Shop 2026 Ford Expedition Inventory 2026 Ford Expedition MAX: Extra Cargo Space Behind the Third Row The 2026 Ford Expedition MAX takes the strengths of the standard Expedition and adds more room where many families need it most: behind the third row. The Expedition MAX is the extended-wheelbase version of the Expedition, measuring roughly 12 inches longer overall and adding significantly more cargo space while keeping the same seating comfort and interior features. If your third row is in use most of the time, the Expedition MAX is absolutely worth considering. That extra space makes a big difference when you are loading strollers, groceries, sports gear, luggage, or road trip essentials without folding seats down every time. 2026 Ford Expedition MAX Trims Active MAX - Full-size family capability with added cargo room. Platinum MAX - Premium features with the extra length of the MAX body style. King Ranch MAX - Signature King Ranch styling with expanded cargo flexibility. Tremor MAX - Rugged Expedition capability with more space for gear. Best Fit Families who use the third row often and need real cargo space behind it. Shop 2026 Ford Expedition MAX Inventory 2026 Ford SUV Size Guide Model Size Class Seating Best For Shopper Takeaway Escape Compact SUV 5 Commuting, errands, small families, efficiency Easy to drive, easy to park, and available for its final model year. Explorer Midsize 3-row SUV 6 or 7 Families who need flexible seating A strong middle ground between compact convenience and full-size space. Expedition Full-size SUV Up to 8 Large families, towing, road trips Big SUV comfort with serious capability. Expedition MAX Extended full-size SUV Up to 8 Families who use the third row often Adds valuable cargo space behind the third row. Which Ford SUV Fits Your Lifestyle? Escape is the go-to for drivers who want something easy to park, efficient, and simple for everyday driving. Explorer is a strong fit for families who need three rows and flexible space without stepping into a full-size SUV. Expedition is built for larger families, towing, and drivers who want full-size comfort and capability. Expedition MAX is the right choice when your third row is in use often and you still need real cargo space behind it. What About the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport? We did not forget the Ford Bronco or Ford Bronco Sport. They are just a different animal. While the Escape, Explorer, Expedition, and Expedition MAX focus heavily on everyday SUV needs, the Bronco lineup leans more toward adventure, trail capability, and rugged personality. You can learn more here: Ford Bronco Trim Levels. Still Love the Ford Edge or an Older Ford SUV? If you have a beloved late-model Ford Edge, older Ford Escape, or previous-generation Expedition, University Ford can still help you find a great fit. Our used inventory often includes Ford SUVs, used cars, trucks, and other pre-owned options for drivers who want value, familiar features, or a specific model no longer offered new. A used Ford Edge can be a great choice for shoppers who want a roomy two-row SUV, while a used Escape or Expedition may be ideal for drivers who already know and love those models. Shop Used Ford SUVs in Huntington, WV Find Your Ford SUV at University Ford in Huntington, WV The 2026 Ford SUV lineup gives Huntington-area drivers a clear path to the right vehicle. The Escape keeps things compact and efficient, the Explorer adds family-friendly three-row flexibility, the Expedition brings full-size strength, and the Expedition MAX gives busy families more space behind the third row. Visit University Ford to compare Ford SUVs, browse current inventory, and find the model that fits your family, commute, budget, and weekend plans.

2026-ford-f-150

2026 Ford F-150 Trims: Which One Fits Your Life Best?

The 2026 Ford F-150 shows up ready for real life in and around Huntington. Early mornings, long drives, job sites, weekend plans that turn into something bigger than expected — this truck keeps up without missing a beat. It’s powerful when you need it, comfortable when you want it, and flexible enough to match the way you actually drive. And with multiple trims to choose from, the F-150 isn’t trying to make you settle for close enough. It gives you options that fit your pace, your priorities, and your kind of daily routine. The only real question is which version of the F-150 feels the most like yours. 2026 Ford F-150 STX – Clean, Capable, and Ready to Go Starting MSRP: ~$41,855 Best For: Drivers who want a solid, stylish truck without overcomplicating things The STX gives you everything you need and nothing you don’t. It looks sharp, drives strong, and handles everyday life without feeling stripped down. Highlights: Standard 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 Available 5.0L V8 or hybrid powertrain 18-inch wheels with bold exterior styling Practical interior with modern tech 2026 Ford F-150 XLT – The One Most People Drive Home In Starting MSRP: ~$44,695 Best For: Huntington drivers who want flexibility, comfort, and room to upgrade The XLT hits that sweet spot. It’s comfortable, customizable, and packed with features that make daily driving easier. Highlights: Multiple engine options, including hybrid Available 360-degree camera Zone lighting for job sites or late nights Available heated seats and interior upgrades 2026 Ford F-150 Lariat – Where Comfort Starts to Take Over Starting MSRP: ~$59,560 Best For: Drivers who want truck capability with a more refined feel Step into the Lariat and things start to feel noticeably more upscale. It’s still a truck, but now it’s one you’ll look forward to driving every day. Highlights: Standard 5.0L V8 with available EcoBoost® and hybrid Leather-trimmed seating 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC® 4 Available Pro Access Tailgate and bed features 2026 Ford F-150 Tremor – Built for West Virginia Backroads Starting MSRP: Mid-$60K range (varies by configuration) Best For: Drivers who want off-road capability without going full Raptor The Tremor feels right at home in West Virginia. Gravel roads, muddy trails, uneven terrain—it handles it without hesitation. Highlights: Standard 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 33-inch all-terrain tires Off-road tuned suspension Trail Control™ and Rock Crawl mode Ford F-150 King Ranch – Premium with Personality Starting MSRP: ~$70K+ Best For: Drivers who want something upscale with a little more character King Ranch doesn’t try to blend in. It brings a distinct look and feel, with premium materials and a style that stands out. Highlights: Standard 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 Available hybrid powertrain Unique leather interior and wood accents Signature King Ranch styling details Ford F-150 Platinum – Clean, Modern, and Fully Loaded Starting MSRP: ~$75K+ Best For: Drivers who want a high-end truck that still works hard Platinum leans into comfort, tech, and a polished design without losing what makes the F-150 a truck. Highlights: Standard 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 Available hybrid setup Available head-up display Heated and ventilated seating Advanced towing and driver-assist tech 2026 Ford F-150 Platinum Plus – The Extra Layer Starting MSRP: ~$80K+ Best For: Drivers who want the most refined F-150 before stepping into Raptor territory Platinum Plus takes everything from Platinum and turns it up a notch with more premium details and exclusive touches. Highlights: Standard PowerBoost® hybrid 7.2 kW Pro Power Onboard Exclusive styling elements Elevated interior finishes 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor – No Subtlety Here Starting MSRP: ~$78K+ (Raptor R higher) Best For: Drivers who want power, presence, and serious off-road performance The Raptor isn’t trying to be practical. It’s built to be fun, aggressive, and capable in ways most trucks don’t even attempt. Highlights: High-output 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 (450 hp) Available Raptor R with supercharged V8 (720 hp) Available 37-inch tires FOX suspension system Wide stance and bold styling So… Which 2026 F-150 Trim Should You Choose? It really comes down to how you use your truck. STX keeps it simple and affordable XLT gives you the best all-around balance Lariat adds everyday comfort Tremor is perfect for rough roads and weekends outside King Ranch and Platinum bring premium touches Platinum Plus pushes luxury even further Raptor is for when you want something completely different No matter where you land, you’re still getting a truck that’s built to handle real life in and around Huntington. Test Drive the 2026 Ford F-150 at University Ford The best way to figure out your trim is to see them side by side. Stop by University Ford in Huntington, WV to explore the lineup, compare features, and take your favorite for a drive. Once you’re behind the wheel, the decision gets a whole lot easier. What trims are available for the 2026 Ford F-150? The 2026 Ford F-150 is available in multiple trims, including STX, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, Platinum Plus, and Raptor. Each trim offers a different balance of capability, comfort, and technology, so drivers can choose the version that best fits their lifestyle. Which 2026 Ford F-150 trim is the best? The best trim depends on how you plan to use your truck. The XLT is a popular choice for its balance of features and value, while the Lariat adds more comfort and tech. For off-road driving, the Tremor or Raptor stand out, while King Ranch and Platinum trims focus more on premium features.