Ford Explorer Comparison
2026 Ford Explorer Active 200A Package vs. 2026 Ford Explorer ST
The 2026 Ford Explorer is an incredible SUV, delivering style, performance, and innovation that everyone will love. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the new Explorer, but when you want to curate a ride that's fit for you and your family, discovering what makes the different Explorer trims special is an important move.
We want to help you discover how the Explorer Active with the 200A Package and the Explorer ST trim compare. Once you understand what these vehicles offer, you'll be in a better position to finance or lease your next Sport Utility Vehicle.
Design
The 2026 Ford Explorer features Autolamp LED headlamps with auto high-beam functionality and daytime running lights on both the Active and ST trims. This allows for exceptional vision down the road, whether it's morning, dusk, or night. There are some differences between their design, too.
The Explorer Active trim rides on 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels, with optional upgrades to 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted or Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels for a more distinctive appearance. The 200A Package enhances the Active's exterior with LED fog lamps, silver-painted front skid plate, and LED signature lighting.
Engines & Performance
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active and ST offer distinctly different powertrain experiences. The Active trim features the efficient 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 300 horsepower. This engine offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 20 MPG city and 29 MPG highway with a rear-wheel drive configuration, or 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway with a four-wheel drive configuration.
The Explorer ST delivers a powerful 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 twin-turbocharged engine producing 385 horsepower. This powerhouse pairs with a specially tuned 10-speed automatic transmission featuring SelectShift capability and paddle shifters for drivers who enjoy taking control. The ST offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway while providing exhilarating acceleration that satisfies performance enthusiasts.
Technology
Inside the 2026 Ford Explorer, technology takes center stage with a generous 13.2-inch color LCD touchscreen featuring pinch-to-zoom capability on both the Active and ST trims. The Ford digital experience includes Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play integration, along with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility for seamless smartphone connectivity. SiriusXM with 360L comes standard with a three-month prepaid subscription to keep you entertained on every journey.
The Active trim includes a capable AM/FM stereo with six speakers, while the ST upgrades to the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® featuring 10 speakers, including a subwoofer for enhanced audio quality. The ST also includes BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology with a complimentary 90-day trial, along with rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror. The integrated navigation system with voice activation ensures you never lose your way, while Ford Connect 5G Mobile Hotspot keeps all passengers connected throughout your travels. The 200A Package adds remote start capability to the Active, allowing you to warm up or cool down your vehicle before entering.
Interior
The 2026 Ford Explorer Active accommodates up to six passengers with comfortable seating configurations designed for family adventures. The Active trim features unique cloth heated captain's chairs with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and 4-way manual adjustment for the front passenger. Optional ActiveX seating material provides a premium look and feel with easier maintenance. The 200A Package enhances comfort with second-row HVAC controls, allowing rear passengers to customize their climate settings independently.
The Explorer ST elevates the interior experience with distinctive Miko suede heated and ventilated captain's chairs featuring micro-perforated seating surfaces, red stitching, and embroidered ST logos. The ST includes 10-way power adjustment with memory for the driver and 8-way power adjustment for the front passenger. Both trims offer flexible third-row seating that folds to create generous cargo space, with the ST featuring power-fold functionality for added convenience. The ST also includes memory settings for the driver's seat and door mirrors, ensuring your preferred positions are always ready.
Safety
Ford equips both the 2026 Explorer Active and ST with comprehensive safety technologies to protect all occupants. Standard features across both trims include BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), collision mitigation with front sensing, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, and lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning. The Safety Canopy System provides curtain airbags for first, second, and third-row passengers, ensuring protection throughout the cabin.
Why Buy from Tapper Ford
When you choose Tapper Ford as your automotive destination, you're making a decision to win. Our dedicated and knowledgeable team members deliver world-class service that sets the standard for a better dealership experience. With our savings, incentives, service team, parts, and convenient financing tools, we want to become your premier destination the next time you're looking to finance or lease a new Ford Explorer. Visit us today to learn all the ways we can help you elevate your next journey.
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Tapper Ford
816 South Kalamazoo Street
Paw Paw, MI 49079
- Sales: (269) 657-3134
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