2026 Ford Explorer Active: Your Gateway to Northern Michigan Adventure

The 2026 Ford Explorer Active in Agate Black Metallic is the quintessential companion for those who call Traverse City, MI home. Whether you are navigating the bustling downtown corridors for a gallery opening or heading out toward the scenic peninsulas for a weekend of exploration, this SUV is designed to integrate seamlessly into the diverse rhythms of Northern Michigan. It offers the perfect balance of refined urban style and the rugged capability required for a life lived outdoors.

Imagine starting your morning with a quiet drive along the bay, the Agate Black Metallic exterior reflecting the first light over the water. The Explorer Active is built for the families and professionals of Traverse City, MI who need a vehicle that can transition from a professional commute to a sunset hike at a moments notice. With its spacious interior and sophisticated presence, it is more than just a mode of transport; it is a tool for enhancing every experience in our vibrant community.

Turbocharged Performance and Four-Wheel Drive Confidence

Under the hood of this 2026 Ford Explorer Active lies the EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 engine, a powerhouse that utilizes gasoline direct injection and an intercooled turbo to deliver a robust 300HP. This engine is paired with a sophisticated 10-Speed Automatic transmission featuring Selectable mode transmission and Lock-up transmission capabilities, ensuring that power delivery is always smooth and efficient. Whether you are merging onto the highway or navigating rolling inland hills, the Aluminum engine block and Longitudinal mounted engine configuration provide a balanced, responsive feel.

Capability is at the heart of this SUV, which comes equipped with Four Wheel Drive and Intelligent 4WD. This system is essential for maintaining traction during unpredictable lake-effect weather. Drivers can utilize the selectable Driver selectable drivetrain mode to optimize performance based on the specific terrain or road conditions they encounter. The vehicle also features a Four wheel independent suspension with a Strut front suspension and Multi-link rear suspension, providing a composed ride even when the pavement ends. For those looking to bring extra gear along, the Trailer hitch and Class III tow rating are supported by Trailer sway control, making it easy to haul a boat or a pair of jet skis to the nearest launch.

Advanced Connectivity and Intuitive Technology

The cabin of the Explorer Active serves as a high-tech command center, dominated by a 13.2 inch primary display and a 12.30 inch Full gauge cluster screen. This dual-screen setup ensures that all vital information and entertainment options are just a glance away. With Smart device integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can effortlessly mirror your favorite apps for navigation, music, and communication. The Integrated navigation system with voice activation ensures you never lose your way, while Voice activated audio controls allow you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

Connectivity is a priority for every passenger, with 4 USB ports and Bluetooth wireless audio streaming available to keep everyones devices powered and entertained. The Ford Connect 5G mobile hotspot internet access turns the Explorer into a mobile hub, perfect for passengers who need to stay connected during longer trips. Additionally, the ECO feedback display gauge helps you monitor your driving efficiency, while the Exterior temperature display keeps you informed of the changing Northern Michigan climate.

Refined Comfort and Versatile Interior Space

Inside, the Space Gray interior is upholstered in ActiveX leatherette front seat upholstery, offering a premium look that is also durable enough to handle the dirt and sand of an active lifestyle. Comfort is paramount with Heated driver and front passenger seats and a Heated steering wheel, providing immediate warmth on those crisp Michigan mornings. The Power driver seat features 8-way directional controls including 2-way power lumbar, while the passenger enjoys 6-way directional controls, ensuring both front occupants find their perfect seating position.

The second row features Second-row captains' chairs with manual fore and aft adjustment and manual reclining, offering a first-class experience for rear passengers. For larger groups, the Third-row bench seat provides a total Seating capacity of 6. When more cargo room is needed, the Manual fold into floor third-row seat and Fold forward second-row seatback create a flat, expansive loading area. The Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade floods the cabin with natural light, while the Dual-zone front climate control and Rear climate control system with separate controls ensure that every passenger stays comfortable regardless of the season.

Comprehensive Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a cornerstone of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active, which is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies designed to provide peace of mind. The BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking act as a second set of eyes, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the side while reversing. For highway travel, the Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering hands-on cruise control help maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and keep you centered in your lane.

In the event of a potential collision, the Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and forward collision mitigation with left turn assist can provide alerts and even apply the brakes if necessary. The vehicle also includes Post Collision Braking, which helps prevent a secondary collision by applying the brakes after an initial impact. With 7 airbags, including a Safety Canopy System that covers all three rows, and a Driver side knee airbag, the Explorer is engineered to protect what matters most. The Reverse Sensing System and Rear camera with washer make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces effortless.

Bold Exterior and Purposeful Design

The exterior of the Explorer Active is both functional and striking, featuring 20-inch Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum Wheels that provide a confident stance. The Agate Black Metallic paint is complemented by a Black grille with chrome accents and Metal-look front and rear bumper inserts. Practical features like Roof rails and a Power liftgate rear cargo door add to the vehicle's utility, making it easy to load up roof racks or access the trunk when your hands are full.

Visibility is enhanced by LED low and high beam headlights, LED front fog lights, and LED daytime running lights. The Auto High Beam headlights automatically adjust to oncoming traffic, while the Heated door mirrors and Heated rear wiper park ensure your view remains clear even in wintry conditions. The Rear lip spoiler and Chrome bodyside insert add a touch of athletic flair to the SUV's profile, while the Active grille shutters work behind the scenes to optimize aerodynamics and cooling.

Key Highlights

This SUV is packed with features designed to enhance every aspect of your driving experience:

• EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 Engine - Powerful and efficient performance with 300HP.
• Intelligent 4WD - Enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• ActiveX Leatherette Upholstery - Durable and premium seating material in Space Gray.
• 13.2 Inch Primary Display - Large, intuitive interface for all your media and settings.
• Heated Front Seats and Steering Wheel - Essential comfort for Northern Michigan winters.
• Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof - Provides an open, airy feel for all passengers.
• Adaptive Cruise Control - Reduces driver fatigue on long highway stretches.
• Power Liftgate - Convenient access to the cargo area with the touch of a button.
• 20-inch Gray Aluminum Wheels - Bold styling that stands out on the road.
• Class III Tow Rating - Ready to haul your favorite outdoor toys.
• Ford Connect 5G Hotspot - Stay connected wherever your travels take you.
• Selectable Terrain Modes - Tailor the vehicle's performance to the road ahead.
• Three Rows of Seating - Flexible space for up to six passengers.
• Integrated Navigation - Voice-activated guidance to any destination.
• LED Fog Lights - Improved visibility during misty mornings near the bay.

Visit Us at Fox Grand Traverse Ford

We invite you to experience the 2026 Ford Explorer Active for yourself. Our team is dedicated to providing a professional and welcoming environment for all our neighbors in the region. Whether you are coming from the heart of Traverse City, MI or the surrounding areas, finding us is simple. You can Get Pre-Approved for Financing online to save time, or Sell Us Your Car to see what your current vehicle is worth.

Visit Fox Grand Traverse Ford today at 3464 N U, Traverse City, MI 49684. Our experts are ready to answer your questions and get you behind the wheel for a test drive. Call us at (231) 922-2000 to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our Shop New Ford Explorer Inventory options. We look forward to helping you find the perfect vehicle for your next adventure.

Build Codes: 68A| 2HVAC| HEATW| S| FASCIA| RMSTRT| 200A| 44T| 99H| STDGV| STDRD| 64Y| NONTR| 16B| 43H| 61E| 119WB

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.