Key Takeaway: How Ford Terrain Management System Protects Winter Drivers on Interstate 70 Driving along Interstate 70 through Central Kansas during the winter months presents severe driving hazards. Freezing winds sweeping across open fields create sudden ground blizzards, black ice on elevated bridges like the Smoky Hill River crossing, and dense slush lanes between Junction City and Salina. The Ford Terrain Management System (TMS) is engineered specifically to eliminate driver uncertainty during these rapid weather shifts. By rotating a simple rotary dial inside the cabin, drivers can select tailored drive profiles such as Slippery or Deep Snow/Sand. This electronically recalibrates vehicle systems in real time—adjusting throttle sensitivity, delaying or accelerating transmission shift points, recalibrating anti-lock brakes (ABS), and modifying front-to-rear torque distribution via Ford Intelligent 4WD. Rather than relying on mechanical lever engagement or reactive wheel spin, Ford TMS acts as an intelligent co-pilot. In Slippery Mode, the vehicle dulls aggressive gas pedal inputs to prevent sudden torque spikes that break tire traction on packed ice. Simultaneously, the Intelligent 4WD transfer case proactively pre-loads power to the front axle before slip occurs. When encountering drifted snow banks along highway exit ramps near Fort Riley, switching to Deep Snow/Sand Mode allows momentum-sustaining wheel slip while aggressive brake-based traction control manages side-to-side power distribution. For drivers negotiating unpredictable prairie winter storms, TMS provides an essential shield against loss of control. Drive Mode Throttle Response Torque Split (Front/Rear) Traction & Stability Control Ideal I-70 Winter Scenario Normal Standard linear pedal mapping 100:0 (proactive auto-engage) Standard slip thresholds Dry pavement between winter storms Slippery Relaxed / reduced sensitivity 50:50 continuous pre-stage split Ultra-sensitive wheelspin prevention Black ice, freezing rain, slush on I-70 bridges Deep Snow / Sand Aggressive momentum response 50:50 locked dynamic distribution Allows controlled slip for momentum Un-plowed off-ramps, high drift snowbanks How Ford Terrain Management System Adjusts Vehicle Controls for Snow, Ice, and Slush Throttle Mapping & Shift Point Calibration When driving on low-friction surfaces like slush or refrozen snow, harsh accelerator inputs can instantly break tire traction. The Ford Terrain Management System alters the electronic throttle profile. In Slippery Mode, pressing the gas pedal yields a gradual, metered rise in engine torque rather than a sudden burst. Simultaneously, the SelectShift high-speed automatic transmission adjusts its shift logic. The system upshifts earlier in the RPM band to keep engine torque manageable and downshifts more smoothly to avoid sudden engine-braking shocks that could unseat rear-wheel traction while coasting down highway grades. ABS & Brake Vectoring Recalibration Traditional Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) pulse rapidly to prevent lockup, but packed snow and ice require refined brake pulses to maximize deceleration without causing loss of steering control. Ford TMS updates brake system parameters based on the selected mode. In Deep Snow Mode, the ABS permits brief locking of the wheels. This allows a small wedge of snow to build up in front of the tires, acting as a natural brake block to shorten stopping distances. Additionally, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control works alongside torque vectoring to gently apply individual wheel brakes if yaw sensors detect vehicle rotation on icy I-70 lane changes. How Does Ford Intelligent 4WD Handle Snow and Ice on Winter Highways Like I-70? Older four-wheel-drive systems required drivers to notice loss of traction before manually shifting levers into 4H. Ford Intelligent 4WD operates continuously through predictive electronics. Sampling dozens of vehicle sensors hundreds of times per second, the system tracks individual wheel speed, steering wheel angle, lateral acceleration, windshield wiper activation, and ambient air temperatures. If you are traveling west on I-70 toward Abilene and hit a patch of black ice on an overpass, Intelligent 4WD doesn't wait for a wheel to spin. The system measures micro-slips before they escalate and routes up to 100% of available rear engine torque to the front wheels (or vice versa) via an electro-hydraulic clutch assembly. This seamless transfer of drive force maintains directional stability without driver intervention. What Is the Difference Between Ford Intelligent 4WD and Traditional 4WD High/Low Modes? Ford Intelligent 4WD (Single-Speed) Found on vehicles like the Explorer and Bronco Sport. Uses an electronic clutch pack for instant torque distribution on dry, wet, or icy roads without drivetrain binding. No low-range gear selection needed for highway winter conditions. Traditional 4x4 High / Low Modes Found on heavy-duty trucks like the F-150 and F-250 Super Duty. Features a mechanical transfer case with 2H, 4H, and 4L low-range gearing. Designed for heavy towing, deep mud, or unpaved snow conditions. Pavement Compatibility & Efficiency Intelligent 4WD can remain active permanently on dry asphalt without driveline wear or tire hopping during sharp turns. Traditional 4H must be turned off on dry pavement to prevent transfer case strain. Explore New Ford 4WD SUV Inventory Can Ford BlueCruise Be Used During Severe Winter Snowstorms or Icy Conditions? No, Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving should not be activated during severe winter snowstorms, active ice storms, or heavy slush conditions. BlueCruise relies on clear optical camera visibility to read painted lane markers along approved Hands-Free Blue Zones like I-70. When snow drifts cover pavement markings, radar sensors become caked with highway slush, or traction is compromised by black ice, BlueCruise will prompt the driver to resume manual control with visual and audible alerts. During winter weather, driving safety requires human judgement, manual throttle modulation, and tactile steering feedback. Always use hands-on driving when roads are slick. How Do You Clean Snow and Road Salt Off Ford BlueCruise Radar Sensors and Cameras? 1. Front Grille Radar Pod The front radar sensor is located in the center grille or lower bumper. Clear heavy snow build-up gently using a soft brush or microfiber towel. Never scrape radar covers with hard plastic ice scrapers as scratches can distort millimeter-wave radar signals. 2. Windshield Camera Housing The forward-facing camera sits behind the upper center windshield near the rearview mirror. Ensure your windshield defrost is running and keep windshield washer fluid topped off with low-freeze rated (-20°F) fluid to clear salt spray without smearing. 3. Side Mirror & Ultrasonic Sensors Side-view mirror cameras and bumper-mounted ultrasonic sensors collect road grime rapidly. Wipe camera lenses with a damp microfiber cloth and automotive-grade washer fluid to remove corrosive calcium chloride salt deposits. How Does Ford App Remote Start Help Melt Ice Off Sensor Camera Zones Before Driving? Pre-conditioning your vehicle is one of the most effective ways to prepare for a safe winter highway trip. Utilizing the Ford App Connect App, drivers can schedule pre-departure times or activate Remote Start directly from a smartphone. When engaged in sub-freezing temperatures, Ford Remote Start automatically powers up internal heating systems: full windshield defrosters, heated rear glass, side mirror heating elements, and heated wiper park zones. Radiating warmth thaws ice accumulation around upper windshield camera housings and mirror lenses before you ever step outside. This ensures your vehicle's driver-assist safety camera array is clear and operational prior to pulling onto I-70. If you have questions about syncing your smartphone, check our guides or Schedule Ford Service Today at Valor Ford. Schedule Winter Service Inspection Navigating I-70 Winter Conditions: Ford Intelligent 4WD and BlueCruise Driving Tips Navigating Interstate 70 between Junction City, Fort Riley, and Abilene during Kansas winter storms requires combining state-of-the-art vehicle technology with proactive driving habits. High prairie crosswinds regularly blow loose snow across the lanes, creating localized ground blizzards and unexpected drifts near highway bridges and overpasses. I-70 Hazard Location Environmental Condition Recommended Ford Mode / Feature Best Driver Action Smoky Hill River Bridge Flash black ice freeze Select Slippery Mode Maintain steady speed, avoid hard braking Open Prairie Corridors 40+ mph winter crosswinds AdvanceTrac & Side-Wind Stabilization Keep both hands firm on wheel, disable cruise control Exit Ramps (Junction City) Deep slush & plow windrows Select Deep Snow / Sand Mode Maintain momentum, turn into skid if tail breaks free How Much Does Ford Intelligent 4WD Add to the Total Vehicle Cost? When configuring a new Ford vehicle, adding Intelligent 4WD may affect MSRP on trims where front-wheel-drive or two-wheel-drive is standard. On popular Midwest utility models such as the Ford Bronco Sport, Explorer Timberline, and Expedition, Intelligent 4WD is standard equipment. From a long-term value perspective, four-wheel drive vehicles retain a significantly higher percentage of their value in Kansas and throughout the Great Plains region. Furthermore, the enhanced safety, capability, and winter peace of mind far outweigh the modest initial investment when commuting along snowy stretches of I-70. If you are curious about current trade valuation, check out our Trade In Evaluation tool. Preparing Your Ford Vehicle for Winter Highway Drives Across Central Kansas Tires & Tread Inspection Intelligent 4WD depends on tire friction. Ensure tread depth is above 5/32" for winter driving or upgrade to 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) rated tires available through our parts center. Battery & Electrical Test Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity by up to 50%. Have your Motorcraft battery conductance tested at Valor Ford before low winter temperatures arrive. Wiper Blades & Fluid Install heavy-duty beam wiper blades designed to resist ice buildup and top off with washer fluid rated to -20°F or lower to maintain clear camera sightlines. Order Genuine Ford Winter Parts Experience Ford Terrain Management System at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Whether you are commuting along I-70 between Junction City and Fort Riley or planning winter family road trips, Valor Ford is your trusted winter driving authority in Central Kansas. Our certified Ford team can walk you through the Ford Terrain Management System, demonstrate Intelligent 4WD live, or inspect your vehicle before freezing weather arrives. Visit us today at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS. Get Directions to Valor Ford or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to speak directly with our team. Contact Us About Financing

Tech Features in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active What Screen Sizes and Digital Displays Come Standard in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Cabin? The 2026 Ford Explorer Active cabin comes standard with a 13.2-inch center LCD touchscreen running the Ford Digital Experience alongside a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver. Together, these two expansive screens deliver high-definition maps, vehicle telemetry, and seamless smartphone mirroring across every single Active model without requiring any paid package upgrades. Positioned ergonomically high on the reworked dashboard, the central 13.2-inch display puts navigation, media controls, and vehicle settings within easy reach of both the driver and front passenger. Below the main screen, a useful built-in shelf provides a natural resting spot for a hand while making screen selections, keeping your attention focused on driving. The accompanying 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster replaces traditional mechanical dials, allowing drivers to customize screen layouts to display turn-by-turn navigation graphics, active safety alerts, and drive mode visuals. Standardizing these dual digital displays on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active ($42,585 starting MSRP for all-wheel drive models) ensures that buyers choosing the entry trim enjoy the exact same primary screen footprint found on top-tier models. As Finance Manager at Valor Ford, I review vehicle spec sheets daily with buyers who are pleasantly surprised to learn that upgrading to higher trims isn't required just to get modern cabin screens. If you want to experience these displays firsthand, you can stop by our Junction City showroom location or give our finance team a call to check available vehicle arrivals. Table of Contents How Does Google Built-In and In-Cabin Infotainment Work in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? What Driver-Assist and Standard Safety Tech Protects Families in Junction City? How Does Technology in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Compare to the ST-Line Trim? Is Ford BlueCruise Available on the Active Trim or Reserved for Higher Models? How Do Device Charging and Ford App Connectivity Features Work for Daily Commutes? How Does Google Built-In and In-Cabin Infotainment Work in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? The 2026 Ford Explorer Active features native Google Built-in integration within the Ford Digital Experience, giving drivers direct voice-activated access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and downloadable applications via the Google Play Store without relying solely on a connected smartphone. Native Google Maps serves as the primary navigation engine, providing real-time traffic updates, route optimization, and local point-of-interest searching directly on the 13.2-inch screen. Driver commands are handled effortlessly through Google Assistant, allowing occupants to adjust cabin temperature, switch audio sources, or initiate calls using natural voice prompts. For occupants who prefer alternative interfaces, standard wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto capability allow instant smartphone synchronization the moment you start the vehicle. When parked, the infotainment system transforms into an entertainment hub capable of streaming video content from apps like YouTube and Prime Video or running casual games downloaded through Google Play. System data connectivity is backed by a standard 5G modem, and Ford includes one year of the Ford Connectivity Package as standard equipment across the 2026 lineup. In my 11 years helping customers structure their purchases, smooth technology integration consistently ranks among the top features for long-term ownership satisfaction. Shoppers comparing mid-size family vehicles can read our 2026 Ford Explorer research details, review heavy-duty alternatives like our Ford F-250 lineup overview, or browse our current pre-owned vehicle inventory to compare tech across different model years. What Driver-Assist and Standard Safety Tech Protects Families in Junction City? Standard driver-assist and safety technology on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active includes the Ford Co-Pilot360 system, featuring Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, and a rearview camera with rear parking sensors. Every 2026 Explorer Active comes engineered with robust active safety hardware, including standard AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, an individual tire-pressure monitoring system, and automatic high-beam headlamps. The Active trim also features Ford's Terrain Management System with six selectable drive modes—Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, and Trail (or Off-Road on 4WD models). Power is supplied by a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, delivering confident highway merging power alongside solid traction management. For families navigating daily commutes along Washington Street or taking weekend drives near the Kansas River in Junction City, having comprehensive active safety systems standard provides genuine peace of mind. Automated emergency braking and blind spot detection actively monitor surrounding traffic during busy morning commutes and school drop-offs. Families test-driving the Explorer Active at our dealership usually ask to see how the backup-assist guidelines and blind-spot sensors behave before we even head out on our highway test loop. Keeping these sensor systems calibrated over years of daily driving is easy when scheduling service online with our certified service department. Safety & Driver Assistance Safety and driver-assistance features by trim All trims come standard with ABS, height-adjustable front and rear head restraints (two per seat) and third-row head restraints (except Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, which does not have third-row head restraints) with two head restraints per seat. Each trim features front seat belts with driver and passenger pre-tensioners that are height adjustable, along with standard rear and third-row seat belts for both driver and passenger positions. Telematics advanced auto collision notification, Isofix preparation, millimetre-wave sensor distance and object sensing technology, emergency call, accident data recorder, anti collision system activates brake lights, automatic emergency braking, and driver monitoring are standard on all trims except the Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, which does not include these telematics or anti collision features. The anti collision system's brake application at low speed in the front is standard on all trims except for Platinum, Platinum 4WD, ST, ST 4WD, ST-LINE 4WD, ST-LINE RWD, Tremor 4WD, and Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, where this feature is not included. How Does Technology in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Compare to the ST-Line Trim? The ST-Line trim enhances the 2026 Ford Explorer with premium features like a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a 360-degree camera system, and available Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving, distinguishing it from the Active trim. The Active trim comes equipped with a six-speaker audio system, a rearview camera with backup guidelines, and 18-inch sparkled silver-painted aluminum wheels, establishing an impressive standard tech foundation at an accessible price point. In contrast, the ST-Line focuses on sport-inspired cosmetics, adding 20-inch painted alloy wheels and premium audio hardware while sharing the same 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost engine, SelectShift® 10-speed automatic transmission, and 5,000 lbs maximum towing capacity when properly equipped. From my desk in the finance department, I point out to buyers that the Active trim delivers the exact same core screen size, processor performance, and engine output as higher-tier models for a lower overall investment. When comparing mid-size family haulers against full-size options like our 2026 Ford F-150 specs, evaluating standard vs optional features helps buyers align their monthly payments with their actual lifestyle needs. You can evaluate your current vehicle's trade value today using our online trade-in valuation tool. Pricing Pricing by trim Feature Active 4WD Active 4WD 100A Active RWD Active RWD 100A Base MSRP $42,585 $40,465 $40,585 $38,465 Destination charge $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 Pricing (continued) Feature Platinum Platinum 4WD ST ST 4WD Base MSRP $50,965 $52,965 $54,905 $56,905 Destination charge $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 Pricing (continued) Feature ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 Base MSRP $47,155 $45,155 $48,965 $48,550 Destination charge $1,795 $1,795 $1,795 $1,695 Is Ford BlueCruise Available on the Active Trim or Reserved for Higher Models? Ford BlueCruise hands-free driving technology is reserved for higher 2026 Explorer trims such as ST-Line, Platinum, and ST, while the Active trim includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering as standard. The Active trim's standard Adaptive Cruise Control monitors preceding traffic speeds, automatically adjusting acceleration and braking to maintain a safe follow distance while keeping the vehicle centered within lane markings. Hands-free Ford BlueCruise builds upon those functions by allowing qualified hands-free driving on designated controlled-access highways across North America, utilizing interior driver-facing cameras to monitor attentiveness. For drivers who spend most of their time on local suburban roads or prefer keeping hands on the wheel, the standard driver-assist package on the Active trim delivers excellent guidance without extra subscription costs. Shoppers cross-shopping outdoor-ready SUVs in our new Ford Bronco inventory frequently note that Ford's baseline active safety tech offers outstanding confidence on long road trips. To streamline your visit, I recommend getting pre-approved online before coming in to test drive. How Do Device Charging and Ford App Connectivity Features Work for Daily Commutes? The 2026 Ford Explorer Active equips all three seating rows with a total of eight USB ports—including Type-A and Type-C options—alongside standard Ford App Connect 5G Wi-Fi hotspot capability supporting up to 10 devices simultaneously. Front-row occupants benefit from two USB-C ports inside the center console plus a front media hub containing one USB-A and one USB-C port. Second-row passengers have access to two dedicated USB-C charging ports, while third-row passengers receive two additional USB-C ports so every passenger can keep devices powered. Three 12-volt power outlets located throughout the cabin provide additional power connections for portable coolers, air pumps, or electronic accessories. Active-duty service members and civilian personnel commuting around Fort Riley benefit greatly from remote vehicle start, door locking, fuel level monitoring, and location tracking via the Ford App. Whether pre-cooling the interior on warm summer afternoons or keeping kids' tablets charged during cross-country travel, the Active trim's connectivity suite keeps everyone connected. If you would like to explore these technology features in person or discuss financing options, visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd or get our dealership directions, reach our team directly at (785) 238-5114, or look into ordering genuine Ford parts and tech accessories to customize your SUV. Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Feature Active 4WD Active 4WD 100A Active RWD Active RWD 100A Engine 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L Horsepower 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift® Drivetrain All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Engine & Performance (continued) Feature Platinum Platinum 4WD ST ST 4WD Engine 2.3L 2.3L 3L 3L Horsepower 300 hp 300 hp 400 hp 400 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft 415 lb-ft 415 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift® Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive All-wheel drive Engine & Performance (continued) Feature ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 Engine 2.3L 2.3L 2.3L 3.3L Horsepower 300 hp 300 hp 300 hp 318 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft 310 lb-ft 260 lb-ft Transmission SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift® SelectShift Drivetrain All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature Active 4WD Active 4WD 100A Active RWD Active RWD 100A MPG 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined Fuel Economy (continued) Feature Platinum Platinum 4WD ST ST 4WD MPG 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 18 city / 25 hwy / 21 combined 18 city / 25 hwy / 20 combined Fuel Economy (continued) Feature ST-LINE 4WD ST-LINE RWD Tremor 4WD Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 MPG 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 19 city / 23 hwy / 21 combined — © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

What Technology Features Come Standard in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Cabin? When Ford redesigned the interior experience for the 2026 Explorer lineup, they made a bold statement: high-tech luxury and intuitive connectivity should never be locked behind expensive trim upgrades. The 2026 Ford Explorer Active trim, serving as the accessible entry point to the iconic three-row SUV lineup, comes equipped with standard cabin technology that rivals higher-tier trim levels of past generations. Drivers stepping into the Active model are greeted by an expansive digital cockpit centered around the groundbreaking Ford Digital Experience infotainment ecosystem. At the heart of the Active cabin is a massive 13.2-inch capacitive touchscreen paired with a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster positioned directly in the driver's line of sight. Standard technological highlights include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, native Google built-in services (including Google Maps and Google Assistant), a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and the complete Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package of active safety and driver assistance features. Whether navigating local commutes around Junction City or setting off on cross-country road trips across Kansas, the 2026 Explorer Active ensures seamless connectivity and complete driver confidence from day one. You can dive deeper into full model specifications on our Research Ford Explorer page. How Does the 13.2-Inch Ford Digital Experience Screen Function on Daily Commutes? The standard 13.2-inch center touchscreen in the 2026 Ford Explorer Active isn't just large—it represents a complete architectural evolution in vehicle infotainment software. Powered by Ford's upgraded processing hardware, the display responds instantly to tap, swipe, and pinch gestures, eliminating the frustrating lag that plagued older automotive systems. The native Google built-in platform allows Junction City drivers to access Google Maps natively with real-time traffic routing without requiring a connected smartphone. Hands-free convenience is anchored by Google Assistant, allowing drivers to say 'Hey Google' to adjust cabin climate zones, change audio sources, make phone calls, or set navigation destinations while keeping both hands firmly on the wheel. When parked, passengers can even stream video content or play downloadable games through Google Play apps directly on the screen. The split-screen multi-tasking layout lets drivers monitor active turn-by-turn navigation on the left pane while viewing media playback or trip metrics on the right side simultaneously. Is BlueCruise Available on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Trim? A common question among tech-focused vehicle shoppers is whether Ford's hands-free highway driving system, BlueCruise, comes standard or is available on the Active model. For the 2026 model year, BlueCruise hands-free highway driving hardware and software are reserved exclusively for higher Explorer trims, including the ST-Line, Platinum, and ST models. However, this does not mean the Active trim compromises on advanced highway safety and automation tech. Every 2026 Ford Explorer Active comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. This comprehensive suite delivers high-level hands-on driver support during long trips along I-70 or Highway 77. The driver assist suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, and Predictive Speed Assist to automatically manage distance and highway speeds smoothly. Feature Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ (Standard Active) Ford BlueCruise (ST-Line / Platinum) Hands-Free Driving No (Hands on wheel required) Yes (On mapped highways) Adaptive Cruise Control Standard with Stop-and-Go Standard with Stop-and-Go Lane Centering Assist Standard Standard with Lane Change Assist Evasive Steering Assist Standard Standard Device Charging, Audio, and Connectivity for Fort Riley and Regional Families Multi-Row USB Ports Keeping every family member's devices charged is effortlessly managed in the 2026 Explorer Active. USB charging ports (combining modern USB-C and standard USB-A connections) are thoughtfully distributed across all three rows of seating, eliminating power cord battles during school drop-offs or family vacations. Acoustic Audio Clarity The Active cabin features a tuned 6-speaker sound system engineered specifically for the cabin acoustics of the Explorer. Coupled with standard wireless phone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, streaming podcasts or favorite playlists occurs instantly upon ignition. FordPass Mobile Remote Access For personnel commuting early from Fort Riley, standard FordPass Connect enables smartphone remote start, door lock control, and cabin pre-conditioning. Cool down or warm up your Explorer before stepping outside during severe Kansas weather seasons. Research 2026 Ford Explorer Models Seating Comfort & Layout: Are Second-Row Captain's Chairs Available on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Interior flexibility is a hallmark of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active. The trim comes standard with a 7-passenger seating layout featuring a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, 4-way power front passenger seat, durable premium cloth upholstery with contrast stitching, and a second-row 35/30/35 split-folding bench. Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard, giving row-one, row-two, and row-three occupants individualized air distribution settings. For buyers desiring easier third-row access and a more spacious 6-passenger layout, second-row captain's chairs are available as an standalone option on the Active trim. These captain's chairs feature individual armrests and E-Z Entry slide controls, allowing children or passengers to walk cleanly through the center aisle into the 50/50 split-folding third-row seat. Towing and Safety Tech: Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Include Trailer Sway Control? Yes! The 2026 Ford Explorer Active includes standard Trailer Sway Control integrated directly into the AdvanceTrac stability management system. When towing watercraft to Milford Lake or utility trailers across Dickinson County, the system continuously monitors vehicle motion and applies selective braking or adjusts engine power to neutralize trailer oscillation before it becomes dangerous. When equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, the Active trim delivers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. Additionally, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with trailer coverage extends radar monitoring along the full length of attached trailers, while the rear view camera incorporates dynamic hitch guidance overlays directly on the 13.2-inch center screen. How Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Differ From the Explorer ST-Line Trim? While both the Active and ST-Line trims share the standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, key differences exist in interior styling, sound isolation, seating materials, and optional automation features. The Explorer Active focuses on maximum practical utility and value, featuring warm fabric upholstery, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and a 6-speaker audio setup. The ST-Line adds sport-focused aesthetic enhancements including synthetic ActiveX seating with red stitching, 20-inch machined wheels, a 10-speaker B&O Sound System, ambient cabin lighting, and available BlueCruise hands-free driving software capability. If you are considering trading in your current family vehicle to upgrade to an Explorer, try our easy Trade In Evaluation tool today. Cabin Attribute 2026 Explorer Active 2026 Explorer ST-Line Seating Material Durable Cloth / Power Front Seats ActiveX Synthetic w/ Red Stitch Audio System Standard 6-Speaker System 10-Speaker Bang & Olufsen BlueCruise Tech Not Available Available 90-Day / Annual Plan Standard Wheels 18-Inch Sparkle Silver 20-Inch Machined Aluminum Evaluate Your Current Vehicle Trade-In Value What Is the Starting Price and Fuel Economy Rating for the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? MSRP The 2026 Ford Explorer Active has a starting MSRP that varies by drivetrain configuration; please contact Valor Ford for current pricing. It provides unbeatable value with 13.2-inch screens and standard digital safety features. EPA Fuel Economy Ratings The standard 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder achieves EPA-estimated ratings around 20 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway in Rear-Wheel Drive, and approximately 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway when equipped with Intelligent 4WD. Long-Term Value With regular fuel requirement and standard Auto Start-Stop engine tech, the Explorer Active keeps routine refueling costs manageable for busy families driving daily around Geary and Dickinson counties. How Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Compare to the Kia Telluride LX? When comparing entry-level base trims in the three-row family SUV segment, the 2026 Ford Explorer Active holds significant technology advantages over rivals like the Kia Telluride LX. While the Telluride LX features a smaller standard center display, the Explorer Active boasts a standard 13.2-inch high-definition glass screen powered by native Google built-in software. Furthermore, Ford provides standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration across all trims, allowing seamless cord-free smartphone connections. The Explorer's rear-wheel drive architecture also delivers superior towing stability (up to 5,000 lbs) compared to front-wheel drive base competitors. Enhancing Explorer Tech: Genuine Ford Accessories & Service Support at Valor Ford Tech Accessories Personalize your Explorer Active with factory-backed Ford accessories including integrated front/rear dash cams, rear tablet headrest mounts, and illuminated door sill plates. You can conveniently Order Genuine Ford Parts directly online. Certified Software Updates Our certified technicians at Valor Ford handle over-the-air (OTA) software diagnostics, camera re-calibrations, and routine Ford Digital Experience updates to ensure peak processing speed over your vehicle's lifespan. Valet Maintenance Care Busy schedule in Junction City or Fort Riley? Take advantage of our convenient service pickup and delivery options when scheduling routine maintenance or technology checkups. Schedule Ford Service Today Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Near Fort Riley and Dickinson County Reading about advanced automotive technology is one thing—experiencing it from behind the wheel is entirely different. We invite family drivers and active service members across Fort Riley, Manhattan, and Dickinson County to visit Valor Ford in Junction City for a comprehensive hands-on test drive. During your test drive, our knowledgeable Ford specialists will walk you through setting up your wireless smartphone pairing, testing out Google Assistant voice commands, and exploring the safety capabilities of Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. Get Directions to Valor Ford today or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to book your personalized consultation. Explore the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Inventory at Valor Ford Today Ready to experience how the standard 13.2-inch Ford Digital Experience display and full-suite connectivity of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active can transform your daily drives? Visit Valor Ford at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS. Our dedicated team is standing by to help you explore trim packages, competitive loan terms, and current offers. Apply for Financing