2026 Explorer research • Weber Ford • Granite City, Illinois
Compare the 2026 Explorer Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum and ST configurations. The differences include everyday conveniences, performance and trail-oriented equipment. Browse the listings, then use the guide below to decide which two vehicles deserve a closer look at Weber Ford near St. Louis.
This table highlights distinctions from Ford’s 2026 Explorer model information. Active 100A is an equipment configuration within the Active family. A trim name is the beginning of the comparison; the window sticker identifies the packages and options fitted to an individual SUV.
| Configuration | Engine reference | Equipment distinction to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Active 100A | 2.3L EcoBoost | Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ and Class III Trailer Tow Package. |
| Active | 2.3L EcoBoost | Heated front seats and power liftgate. |
| ST-Line | 2.3L EcoBoost | 360-degree camera and ten-speaker B&O system. |
| Tremor | Available 3.0L EcoBoost; verify the selected engine. | Torsen limited-slip rear axle, off-road suspension and underbody protection. |
| Platinum | 2.3L EcoBoost | Heated, ventilated, massaging front seats; available panoramic roof. |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost | Sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes. |
Begin with the seat configuration and the functions you use repeatedly. Try the cargo opening, driver adjustment and controls before deciding whether a higher equipment group answers a real need. Compare the exact two window stickers instead of assuming every vehicle carrying the Active name is equipped alike.
For school drop-offs, shopping and commuting, small differences can matter every day. Decide whether the seating, liftgate and convenience equipment justify the actual quote difference. Keep any optional packages visible so the comparison remains fair.
ST-Line brings its own appearance and equipment while using the 2.3L engine. ST adds a different engine and performance-focused chassis equipment. The similar names should not turn into an assumption that they drive or are equipped the same way.
Try both on the kind of roads you use most. Evaluate ride comfort, steering, visibility and seat support along with the performance you want. Compare the actual tires and wheels, then consider whether the resulting setup suits everyday travel and parking.
Tremor deserves a closer look when its trail-oriented hardware fits your plans. Confirm the selected engine, tire setup and installed options. Consider getting people and cargo into the vehicle and how it feels on normal roads, as well as the terrain you expect to encounter.
Platinum belongs on a comfort-focused shortlist. Try the front-seat adjustments and comfort functions, then have regular passengers evaluate their seats. Compare the actual cabin and roof equipment with the alternative you are considering. Premium equipment is useful when it improves the way your household travels.
The Explorer can be configured for six or seven passengers. Confirm the specific second-row arrangement and total seating positions on the vehicle you are considering. A captain’s-chair arrangement and a bench change both access and passenger count.
Bring the child seats or measurements that determine your purchase and follow the vehicle and restraint instructions. Have passengers try the third row. Leave the seats you need upright while loading the stroller, sports bags or luggage that normally come along.
For a larger passenger-and-cargo requirement, compare the same people and gear in an Expedition. The useful question is whether the actual arrangement works, rather than which SUV has the largest seats-folded cargo number.
Pair your phone during a permitted demonstration and try the controls you use frequently. Ask to see the installed camera views and confirm which features are present on the selected vehicle. An available feature on Ford’s model page is not proof that it appears on every listing.
For a BlueCruise-equipped Explorer, ask about activation, supported operation and the plan terms that apply to that vehicle. Driver-assistance systems require attention and have operating limits. A trim comparison should help you identify the actual equipment and ownership requirements.
The Explorer’s trailer equipment must be checked together with the loaded trailer, passengers and cargo. The Class III package listed in the model highlights does not replace a review of the vehicle’s configuration, labels and applicable towing guidance.
Tell the team the trailer’s loaded weight, hitch equipment and expected downward load. Include luggage, child seats and other carried items. Use the appropriate rating for the exact vehicle, and consider another configuration if the complete load does not fit.
If trailer needs lead you toward a larger SUV, compare the Expedition configuration rather than assuming every Expedition has the same rating. The vehicle must still work for the family’s normal travel.
| Record for each vehicle | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Stock number, model year and equipment group | Keeps the quote tied to the actual SUV. |
| Engine, drivetrain and fitted packages | Explains meaningful mechanical and feature differences. |
| Second-row arrangement and seating count | Confirms that everyone can travel in the intended seats. |
| Must-have comfort, camera or connected features | Shows which needs are included and which are optional. |
| Trailer and cargo requirements, when relevant | Keeps the load discussion connected to the vehicle. |
| Itemized quote, trade treatment and finance terms | Makes the purchase comparison complete. |
Save two stock numbers from the Explorer listings on this page. Send the team your required seats, essential features and any cargo or trailer question. Ask which vehicles are available to compare before making the trip.
You can start a trade valuation and review the Finance Center while preparing your shortlist. Request the complete vehicle proposal and applicable terms for the SUV you select.
No. ST-Line uses the 2.3L engine; ST uses the 3.0L engine with performance-oriented chassis equipment. Compare the actual vehicles and their packages.
No. Ford lists the 3.0L as available for Tremor. Confirm the engine on the selected vehicle’s window sticker.
No. Verify the specific second-row arrangement and total seating count. Comfort equipment does not determine how many passengers the vehicle can accommodate.
Contact the team with the stock numbers and the family requirements that matter. Confirm availability and appointment details before visiting Granite City.
Weber Ford is at 3465 Progress Parkway, Granite City, IL 62040. Call 618-452-5400 or contact the team to arrange a focused Explorer comparison for your St. Louis-area driving.
