2023 Ford Maverick Capability and Utility: Expert Q&A with Dustin Zeck at Valor Ford Owners can 3D print their own custom accessories for the 2023 Ford Maverick using official CAD geometry files published by Ford for the Ford Integrated Tether System slots. Today, we sit down with Dustin Zeck, Dealer Principal at Valor Ford with 40 years of automotive experience, to discuss the capability, towing limits, bed dimensions, and interior storage versatility of Ford's innovative compact pickup. Q: Dustin, can owners really 3D-print their own custom accessories for the Ford Integrated Tether System slots in the 2023 Ford Maverick? A: Yes, owners can 3D-print personalized interior accessories for the 2023 Ford Maverick using the built-in Ford Integrated Tether System, commonly known as FITS. Ford took an unprecedented step by publishing open-source CAD geometry blueprints for these mounting slots, which allows drivers to design or download custom cup holders, phone mounts, grocery bag hooks, cable organizers, and storage bins that snap directly into place. Truck buyers who come into our showroom often ask if they can customize their cabin layout before they even take a test drive. The FITS slots are positioned at the rear of the center console and inside the under-seat storage bins, giving passengers flexible anchor points for daily organization. Because Ford made the dimensional files publicly available, an active community of enthusiast creators has designed hundreds of downloadable 3D printable files for cabin management. For drivers who want plug-and-play storage without operating a 3D printer, Ford also offers an official factory accessory package tailored specifically for these T-slot mounting points. Whether you fabricate personalized accessories at home or select factory-designed organizers, the cabin layout adapts easily to your daily routines. If you want to check out the cabin layout in person at our Junction City showroom on Goldenbelt Boulevard, feel free to stop by or give our sales staff a call directly at (785) 238-5114. Q: Moving to trailering and hauling, what is the maximum towing capacity of the 2023 Ford Maverick, and how do the different powertrains affect those ratings? A: The 2023 Ford Maverick achieves a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 lbs when equipped with the optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and the factory 4K Tow Package. Standard configurations with either the 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain or the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine without the towing upgrade are rated to pull up to 2,000 lbs. It is critical for shoppers to know that the standard 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle hybrid powertrain is capped at 2,000 lbs of towing capacity across all trim levels and cannot be optioned with the 4K Tow Package. For drivers who need to pull utility trailers, lawn equipment, or small boats, choosing the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive provides the necessary foundation for maximum hauling capacity. The factory 4K Tow Package includes heavy-duty mechanical cooling and gearing components engineered to handle heavier loads under demanding road conditions. This package adds a trailer hitch receiver, a 7-pin wiring harness, an upgraded cooling fan, a higher-capacity radiator, an external transmission oil cooler, and a revised axle ratio. If you want to dive deeper into engine specifications or review pre-owned vehicle options, feel free to explore our in-depth Ford Maverick research guide or view our current pre-owned pickup truck inventory online. Q: That makes sense regarding tow capabilities. When looking at cargo versatility, how do the 2023 Ford Maverick bed dimensions and cargo volume compare directly against a competitor like the Hyundai Santa Cruz? A: The 2023 Ford Maverick features a pickup bed floor measuring 54.4 inches long with a total cargo volume of about 33 cu ft, making its bed floor 6 inches longer than the Hyundai Santa Cruz bed floor, which measures 48.4 inches. "The beauty of the Maverick bed is that Ford engineered it for real utility, giving owners the dimensions and DIY flexibility to haul serious loads without needing a heavy-duty rig." The Maverick's FlexBed design delivers superior spatial efficiency for loading construction materials and outdoor gear. Measuring 42.6 inches wide between the wheelhouses and 20.3 inches high, the bed easily accommodates up to 18 sheets of 4x8-foot three-quarter-inch plywood placed flat across the wheel wells when the multi-position tailgate is set to its half-open position. Beyond raw physical dimensions, the FlexBed system includes pre-cut pocket slots, threaded bed holes, and pre-wired 12-volt electrical leads that allow owners to construct custom bike racks, false floors, or bed dividers using standard lumber. Standard payload capacity is rated at 1,500 lbs across most configurations, while the off-road Tremor variant carries a payload rating of 1,200 lbs due to its softer off-road suspension tuning. To keep your pickup's bed wiring, tie-downs, and mechanical components running smoothly, you can easily schedule Ford service online with our factory-trained maintenance technicians. Q: What do buyers typically misunderstand about the original pricing structure and available trims for the 2023 model year? A: Many buyers assume that stepping up in trim levels meant entering expensive price brackets, but the 2023 Ford Maverick offered a lineup with pricing that varied by trim and configuration; contact the dealership for current MSRP and destination charge details. Another common misconception is that all-wheel drive was standard across the lineup or available with the hybrid powertrain. In reality, all-wheel drive was paired exclusively with the 250-horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, setting the base MSRP to $24,815 for the XL AWD, $27,075 for the XLT AWD, and $30,575 for the Lariat AWD. For 2023, Ford also introduced the off-road focused Tremor package on XLT and Lariat trims, featuring an advanced twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system, a 1-inch suspension lift, and revised front bumper styling that increases the approach angle to 30.7 degrees. If you are cross-shopping compact truck capability with larger off-road SUVs, you can browse our new Ford Bronco inventory or estimate your current vehicle's trade-in value using our online trade-in evaluation tool. Q: Looking at driver protection on daily commutes, what standard safety technologies and active driver assists come equipped on the 2023 Ford Maverick? A: Every 2023 Ford Maverick comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technology, which includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Detection, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps. In official crash test evaluations, J.D. Power reports that sampled 2023 Maverick models earned a 4-out-of-5 overall NHTSA crash safety rating, including top 5-star crash ratings for frontal and side impact testing. This high level of occupant protection is enhanced by active monitoring systems that scan the road ahead to help mitigate potential hazards. For additional driver convenience during highway travel, buyers could add the Blind Spot Information System, known as BLIS, featuring Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane-Keeping Assist. On the top-tier Lariat trim, the available Co-Pilot360 Assist package added Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Evasive Steering Assist. If you are preparing for your vehicle purchase and want to review financing terms, you can get pre-approved for financing online through our finance department. Q: For truck shoppers ready to experience this utility firsthand, what are the best next steps to test-drive and secure a 2023 Ford Maverick at Valor Ford? A: The best next step for interested buyers is to get in touch with our sales team at Valor Ford to schedule an in-person walkaround, compare powertrain options, and take a comprehensive test drive. Whether you are active-duty personnel stationed nearby at Fort Riley or a resident searching for an efficient daily driver, our knowledgeable team will guide you through towing capabilities, bed features, and cabin tech to help you choose the right configuration. We can walk you through the under-seat storage solutions, demonstrate the FlexBed tailgate positions, and show you how easy it is to manage cargo in a compact footprint. To get started today, you can get directions to Valor Ford on Goldenbelt Boulevard, reach out by calling our sales team at (785) 238-5114, or visit our site to order genuine Ford parts and factory accessories for your truck. Pricing Pricing by trim Trim Contact for current MSRP Various trims and configurations Contact the dealership for current pricing Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Feature Lariat AWD Lariat FWD Lariat Tremor Advanced 4WD XL AWD XL FWD XLT AWD Seating 5 5 5 5 5 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,731 lbs 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs 3,731 lbs 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs Dimensions & Capacity (continued) Feature XLT FWD XLT Tremor Advanced 4WD Seating 5 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,674 lbs 3,731 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs 1,500 lbs © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

New Model Year Arrival Guide — Ford at Valor Ford: What to Expect in Junction City, KS As autumn sets in across Dickinson County, automotive enthusiasts and local vehicle shoppers alike turn their focus toward one of the most exciting calendar events in central Kansas: the arrival of the new model year Ford vehicles at Valor Ford. Whether you are daily commuting along I-70, managing agricultural demanding tasks near the Kansas River, or preparing for a military PCS move at nearby Fort Riley, understanding how the new model year rollout operates gives you a distinct advantage. Each fall season, Ford updates its iconic lineup of trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles with refined powertrains, upgraded technology suites, enhanced towing capabilities, and fresh interior ergonomics. Navigating the arrival of new inventory involves knowing when specific models land on our showroom floor, how pricing brackets shift across trim packages, and how to maximize every available buyer benefit. At Valor Ford, located conveniently at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS, our team works closely with factory production schedules to bring regional drivers first access to high-demand trims like the Ford F-150 Tremor, Ford Explorer ST, Bronco Badlands, and fuel-efficient hybrid crossovers. From understanding trade-in tax advantages in Kansas to structuring factory custom orders, this comprehensive guide equips you with exact insights to make an informed, value-driven vehicle purchase. What Is the Starting Price Range Across the 2027 Ford SUV Lineup? Selecting the right SUV for your family or daily commute begins with a clear understanding of financial entry points and trim value scaling. Ford’s SUV lineup spans compact, midsize, off-road, and full-size 3-row categories, ensuring that Dickinson County families and solo commuters can pinpoint a vehicle that fits both their lifestyle budget and feature requirements. Starting with entry-level models like the compact Ford Escape and rugged Ford Bronco Sport, buyers enjoy affordable entry pricing combined with standard driver-assist safety technology. Moving up to family-oriented midsize and full-size models, the 2027 Ford Explorer and Expedition deliver elevated interior luxury, advanced digital displays, and higher towing limits. Mid-tier packages such as the Active, ST-Line, and XLT provide standard modern conveniences, while luxury trims like Platinum and King Ranch cater to drivers seeking premium leather seating, multi-contour seats, and top-tier audio systems. Below is an overview of baseline starting price brackets across the 2027 SUV family at Valor Ford. Model Vehicle Segment Estimated Starting MSRP Range Popular Trims Ford Escape Compact Crossover $29,000 - $39,000 Active, ST-Line, Platinum, Hybrid Ford Bronco Sport Compact Off-Road SUV $31,000 - $40,000 Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands Ford Explorer 3-Row Midsize SUV $39,000 - $55,000 Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum Ford Expedition Full-Size 3-Row SUV $56,000 - $83,000 XLT, Limited, King Ranch, Platinum What Are the Interior Dimensions and Cargo Capacity of the 2027 Ford Explorer? For growing families and active service members stationed at Fort Riley, cabin space and cargo flexibility are non-negotiable requirements. The 2027 Ford Explorer remains a benchmark in the three-row midsize class by combining ample passenger seating with versatile, fold-flat rear seating configurations. Whether loading tactical gear, camping supplies for trips down the Kansas River, or routine groceries from Junction City shopping centers, the Explorer adjusts seamlessly to suit your volume requirements. In its standard configuration, the Explorer comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers, or six when equipped with optional second-row captain's chairs. Legroom in the first two rows is among the most generous in its segment, ensuring adult comfort on extended highway drives across Kansas. When cargo capacity is prioritized over seating, the third and second rows fold flat to create a massive continuous floor area. Dimension / Measurement First Row Second Row Third Row Headroom (Inches) 40.7 in 40.5 in 38.9 in Legroom (Inches) 43.0 in 39.0 in 32.2 in Shoulder Room (Inches) 60.7 in 60.3 in 54.3 in Cargo Volume Behind Row 85.8 cu. ft. (Max) 46.0 cu. ft. 18.2 cu. ft. Which 2027 Ford Models Feature Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology? Standard Across All Models: Safety is paramount for daily travel along Highway 77 and busy interstate corridors. Ford has standardized the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite across virtually every 2027 vehicle, including the Escape, Bronco Sport, Explorer, Expedition, F-150, and Maverick. Core Active Safety Features: Key technologies include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane-Keeping System with Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross-Traffic Alert, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, and Rearview Camera assist for effortless parking. For higher trim levels, enhanced technology packages add Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ or Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving capabilities—ideal for long distance road trips across Kansas and beyond. Detailed vehicle spec sheets can be reviewed in depth when you check out our vehicle research pages. Research Ford Explorer Features Which Ford F-150 Engine Option Provides the Highest Towing Capacity? Truck owners in Dickinson County rely heavily on their pickups for agricultural hauling, horse trailers, heavy equipment transport, and recreational boats. When maximum trailering capability is required, engine selection is critical. The 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine achieves the highest maximum conventional towing capacity in the F-150 lineup, topping out at an impressive 13,500 lbs when properly equipped with the Max Trailer Tow Package. While the 3.5L EcoBoost leads in absolute towing figures, alternative powertrains offer specialized advantages depending on your daily duty cycle: Engine Option Horsepower / Torque Max Towing Capacity Key Operational Advantage 3.5L EcoBoost V6 400 hp / 500 lb-ft 13,500 lbs Maximum trailering capacity for heavy loads 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 400 hp / 410 lb-ft 13,000 lbs Highest maximum payload capacity & classic exhaust 3.5L PowerBoost™ V6 Hybrid 430 hp / 570 lb-ft 12,700 lbs Massive low-end torque & standard Pro Power Onboard 2.7L EcoBoost V6 325 hp / 400 lb-ft 10,100 lbs Exceptional fuel efficiency for daily driving Which Pickup Truck Provides Greater Onboard Electrical Power Output? In the modern pickup truck landscape, electrical capability has become as important as raw mechanical horsepower. Ford revolutionary Pro Power Onboard system transforms the F-150 into a mobile generator, offering a strong alternative to many bed-mounted power outlets from other truck brands. Whether you are operating power tools at remote construction job sites around Junction City, powering camping equipment along Milford Lake, or securing emergency back-up household electricity during severe Kansas storms, Pro Power Onboard provides unmatched electrical independence. Pro Power Level Available Powertrain Voltage / Amperage Capabilities & Supported Equipment 2.0 kW Output Gas Engines (2.7L, 3.5L, 5.0L) 120V / 20A Outlets Powers air compressors, circular saws, electric grills, tailgating TVs 2.4 kW Output Standard on 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid 120V / 20A Outlets Runs heavy power tools, rotary hammers, mobile battery charging stations 7.2 kW Output Optional on 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid 120V & 240V / 30A Outlets Powers frame-welding rigs, plasma cutters, home appliances, RV power hookups Does Trading In a Car Reduce the Sales Tax on a New Car Purchase in Kansas? Yes! Kansas statute directly benefits vehicle buyers who trade in a vehicle: Under Kansas sales tax law (K.S.A. 79-3606), when you trade in a used vehicle toward the purchase of a new or used vehicle at a licensed dealer like Valor Ford, state and local sales tax is calculated ONLY on the net purchase price (the new vehicle price minus your trade-in allowance). Real-World Savings Example: If you purchase a new 2027 Ford Explorer priced at $45,000 and receive a $20,000 allowance for your trade-in vehicle, you only pay sales tax on the remaining $25,000 balance. At a combined state and local sales tax rate of approximately 9.75% in Junction City, this credit saves you nearly $1,950 in cash out-of-pocket tax savings compared to selling your car privately and buying without a trade-in credit. Get Your Instant Trade-In Evaluation Stackable Manufacturer and Dealer Incentives for Junction City Ford Shoppers Low-APR Ford Credit Rates: Take advantage of special OEM promotional financing terms, including current financing offers on select new model year trucks and SUVs, minimizing long-term interest costs. Military & Customer Cash: Active-duty, veteran, and retired military personnel at Fort Riley can combine Ford Military Recognition cash rebates with dealer trade assist bonuses to stack maximum total savings. Navigating Post-2025 Tax Credit Changes: Following changes to federal clean vehicle tax credits after 2025, Ford and Valor Ford have structured aggressive factory rebate programs and low-rate lease options across hybrid and electric vehicles to maintain exceptional value for local shoppers. How Time-Sensitive Is Selection During New Model Year Sales Events? During major seasonal and holiday shopping periods at Valor Ford, high-demand configurations experience rapid sales velocity. Popular trims like the F-150 Tremor, Ford Explorer ST, Bronco Badlands, and Maverick Hybrid often sell within days of hitting our transport lot. Because dealer allocation allotments depend on regional demand, waiting until late in an event window can limit your choice of exterior colors, axle ratios, or option packages. To secure your exact vehicle specifications without compromise, we recommend engaging with our inventory team prior to busy shopping weekends. Reserving incoming transit units allows you to lock in current pricing and financing offers while ensuring the exact vehicle built to your preferences is reserved directly in your name. Custom Factory Ordering vs. Immediate In-Stock Delivery at Valor Ford Immediate In-Stock Delivery: Drive home today! Ideal for buyers who need a replacement vehicle immediately. Select from dozens of freshly arrived trucks and SUVs on our lot in Junction City. Custom Factory Ordering: Tailor every detail! Select precise paint finishes, interior upholsteries, axle ratios, and off-road packages directly from the Ford assembly plant with complete order tracking. Locked-In Financial Peace of Mind: Whether buying in-stock or custom ordering, Valor Ford protects your trade-in appraisal lock and guarantees access to optimal finance rates upon delivery. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Preparing Your Vehicle for Trade-In and Service Transitions in Junction City Maximizing your trade-in appraisal value requires a few straightforward preparation steps before visiting the dealership. Gathering maintenance records, cleaning interior cabins, addressing minor cosmetic touch-ups, and bringing all primary and spare key fobs ensures our vehicle appraiser can offer top-dollar valuation. Additionally, our certified service team can perform pre-appraisal inspections if you want to verify your car's mechanical standing. Once you transition into your new Ford vehicle, our factory-certified Ford service center is here to protect your investment for years to come. From complimentary multi-point inspections and oil changes to specialized maintenance, Valor Ford offers comprehensive owner support. Be sure to check out our Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service or convenient online tools to Schedule Ford Service Today. Test Drive the New Model Year Ford Lineup at Valor Ford Today There is no substitute for experiencing the power, comfort, and advanced technology of a new Ford firsthand. We invite drivers from Junction City, Fort Riley, Manhattan, and across Dickinson County to explore our showroom and take their favorite models for a test drive. Speak with our friendly sales consultants, explore flexible financing packages, and see how easy upgrading your drive can be at Valor Ford. Visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 or reach out to our team directly. Get Directions to Valor Ford or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to set up your appointment today. Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory

Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Active the Right Midsize SUV for Junction City Families? When evaluating three-row family vehicles in central Kansas, automotive buyers often face an immediate compromise: choose a stripped-down entry model to keep monthly payments reasonable, or stretch their budget into upper-tier trims just to secure modern infotainment and towing capability. The 2026 Ford Explorer Active offers a practical alternative. Positioning itself as the foundational trim in Ford's updated Explorer lineup, the Active grade delivers standard equipment that previously required thousands of dollars in option packages. Armed with a standard 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost® engine, a factory-installed Class III Trailer Tow package rating of 5,000 lbs, and the Ford Digital Experience system featuring dual giant screens, this SUV offers strong value across Dickinson and Geary counties. For active families navigating daily school carpools in Junction City, commuting along I-70 to Manhattan or Topeka, and hauling gear to Milford Lake on weekends, the Explorer Active offers a balanced combination of efficiency, technology, and sheer mechanical capability. Before making a purchasing decision, local drivers should understand how this refreshed trim compares to competitive midsize SUVs and why it represents a practical option for many shoppers. 25 Years Behind the Desk: Jace Grabouski’s Expert Take on the Explorer Active "Over my 25 years in the automotive industry right here in Junction City, I've watched standard equipment lists transform dramatically," notes Jace Grabouski, General Manager at Valor Ford. "A decade ago, an entry-level trim meant cloth seats, a tiny screen, and minimal towing capability. The 2026 Ford Explorer Active offers a different approach. When military families from Fort Riley or long-time rural residents walk into our showroom, they expect a vehicle that works as hard as they do without requiring a higher price point." Jace emphasizes that the 2026 refresh specifically targets what buyers actually use every day. "Ford listened directly to driver feedback. Instead of locking essential features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Google Assistant, and hitch wiring behind luxury packages, they made them standard on the Active trim. You're getting executive-level tech with utility that handles Flint Hills gravel roads and Kansas winter ice with total composure." Having helped thousands of service members, farmers, and local families select their ideal SUVs since 1999, Jace notes that the Explorer Active hits a strong balance between price, durability, and future resale value. What Engine and Performance Specs Come Standard on the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Under the hood of every 2026 Ford Explorer Active lies Ford's proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost® inline-four engine. Utilizing direct fuel injection and twin-scroll turbocharging, this powerplant generates an impressive 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. Paired with a recalibrated 10-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain provides rapid, seamless shifts whether accelerating up highway entrance ramps along I-70 or navigating urban stop-and-go traffic in downtown Junction City. The rear-wheel-drive architecture (with available Intelligent 4WD) gives the Explorer Active a dynamic handling advantage over traditional front-wheel-drive-based crossovers. Weight distribution is remarkably balanced, delivering confident cornering and refined ride comfort. Furthermore, updated acoustic insulation and active noise cancellation ensure cabin noise remains whisper-quiet at 75 mph highway cruising speeds. Engine Spec 2026 Ford Explorer Active Standard Standard Competitor Avg Engine Type 2.3L Turbocharged EcoBoost I-4 2.5L Naturally Aspirated or 3.5L V6 Horsepower 300 hp @ 5,500 RPM 280 - 291 hp Torque 310 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM 262 - 268 lb-ft Transmission 10-Speed SelectShift® Automatic 8-Speed Automatic or CVT Standard Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) / Avail. 4WD Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) How Does 4WD Affect the Fuel Economy and Pricing of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Starting MSRP & RWD Efficiency The standard RWD 2026 Explorer Active starts with an attractive MSRP, delivering EPA ratings of 20 MPG City / 29 MPG Highway / 24 MPG Combined. This setup is ideal for highway commuters driving daily between Fort Riley, Manhattan, and Salina who want maximum fuel economy. Intelligent 4WD Capability Opting for Intelligent 4WD adds around $2,000 to the purchase price while adjusting EPA fuel efficiency slightly to 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway / 23 MPG Combined. The trade-off provides essential traction for harsh Kansas winter snow, mud, and unpaved county roads. Real-World Value Analysis For most Dickinson County drivers, the slight 2 MPG highway difference with 4WD equates to roughly $120-$150 in extra fuel costs annually over 15,000 miles. You can easily Contact Us for Financing Information online or request a Trade In Evaluation to see your exact monthly payment options. Contact Us for Financing Information How Do Towing Capacities Compare Between the Ford Explorer Active, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander? One of the standout advantages of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active is its standard 5,000-lb towing capacity. Most midsize SUV competitors require buyers to upgrade to expensive upper-tier trims or purchase separate factory accessory packages to haul substantial loads. For example, the base Honda Pilot LX/EX-L standard front-wheel drive model is limited to 3,500 lbs of towing capacity. Similarly, standard trims of the Toyota Highlander cap base towing at 3,500 lbs. Whether you are pulling a ski boat or pontoon down to Milford Lake, hauling utility trailers with landscaping supplies, or towing camper trailers across Kansas, the Explorer Active is turn-key ready straight from our showroom floor. Vehicle Model & Trim Standard Tow Capacity Max Tow Capacity Standard Tow Hitch Included? 2026 Ford Explorer Active 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs YES (Class III Factory Hitch) 2026 Honda Pilot LX / Sport 3,500 lbs 5,000 lbs (AWD only) NO (Dealer Accessory Add-on) 2026 Toyota Highlander LE 3,500 lbs 5,000 lbs (Hybrid Max) NO (Extra Option Package) Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Come Standard with a Trailer Hitch Receiver? Yes, absolutely. Every single 2026 Ford Explorer Active built by the factory comes equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package as standard equipment. This includes a fully integrated 2-inch receiver hitch, frame reinforcements, engine oil cooler, and both 4-pin and 7-pin wiring harnesses. On competing SUVs, adding an aftermarket hitch receiver and wiring harness typically costs between $800 and $1,200 including professional installation. Furthermore, aftermarket installations can sometimes interfere with bumper sensors or tailgate kickoff sensors. Ford's factory installation integrates seamlessly with the standard rear parking sensors and Ford Co-Pilot360® safety technologies, saving buyers both upfront money and hassle. Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Support Google Assistant and Alexa Built-In? The headline interior upgrade for the 2026 Explorer is the debut of the Ford Digital Experience infotainment setup, and it comes standard on the Active trim. The system combines a landscape-oriented 13.2-inch center touchscreen display with a customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster directly in front of the driver. Native voice integration includes Google Assistant and Alexa Built-In as default settings. Drivers can simply say "Hey Google, set cabin temperature to 70 degrees" or ask Alexa to control smart home devices before arriving home in Junction City. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ remain fully supported for seamless smartphone syncing without cluttering cords. Jace’s Perspective: Why the Active Trim Is the Smartest Buy on the Lot "When customers consult with me about balancing feature count against long-term vehicle ownership costs, I routinely direct them straight to the Active trim," states General Manager Jace Grabouski. "In previous model years, jumping from base trims to middle-tier models meant spending $4,000 to $6,000 extra just to get larger screens, better seating materials, or decent safety systems." "With the 2026 Explorer Active, Ford reduced the compromises. You get standard heated front seats, soft-touch ActiveX® synthetic leather surfaces, power liftgate, 8-way power driver seat, full LED lighting, standard trailer package, and the 13.2-inch Google display. You are securing roughly 90% of the luxury and tech features of high-end trims like the ST-Line or Platinum, while keeping thousands of hard-earned dollars in your bank account." If you are looking to upgrade your current family vehicle, complete a online Trade In Evaluation to see how much trade equity you can apply toward a new Explorer. Trade In Evaluation Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Hold Its Resale Value Well Over Time? Proven Market Demand The Ford Explorer consistently ranks among America's top-selling three-row SUVs. High secondary market demand across central Kansas ensures strong resale values whether trading in after 3 years or 8 years. You can also Browse Used Inventory to see current market pricing. Durable EcoBoost Powertrain The 2.3L EcoBoost engine has millions of road miles logged across Ford vehicles worldwide. Its proven reliability and widespread parts availability make pre-owned units highly desirable to future pre-owned buyers. Military PCS Resale Security For Fort Riley military personnel anticipating permanent change of station (PCS) moves, owning an SUV with high national demand and strong equity retention minimizes financial depreciation risks. How the Explorer Active Fits Daily Commutes and Weekend Trips Around Fort Riley Interior versatility is standard equipment on the Explorer Active. With its flexible 3-row seating arrangement, the vehicle accommodates up to seven passengers comfortably. Folding down both rear seating rows unlocks a cavernous 88 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, providing ample space for military gear, camping supplies, sports equipment, or hardware store runs. The interior features durable, easy-to-clean ActiveX® synthetic seating material, perfectly suited for families with young children or active outdoor lifestyles. Standard Terrain Management System™ allows drivers to dial in specialized drive modes—including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul—optimizing throttle response and traction control for Flint Hills gravel roads or icy morning commutes. Maintaining Your Explorer Active for Long-Term Reliability in Central Kansas To maximize engine longevity and optimal performance from your 2.3L EcoBoost engine in Kansas climate extreme ranges, adherence to factory maintenance intervals is paramount. Regular oil changes using Motorcraft® synthetic blend oil protect high-rpm turbocharger bearings, while routine air filter replacements protect engine internals from fine Flint Hills agricultural dust. At Valor Ford, our factory-trained certified technicians specialize in maintaining your Explorer with OEM tools and fluids. Conveniently Schedule Ford Service Today or take advantage of our complimentary Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service for hassle-free maintenance appointments from your home or office. For drivers seeking customized upgrades, you can easily Order Genuine Ford Parts including all-weather floor liners, splash guards, roof rack crossbars, and cargo management accessories directly through our dedicated parts department. Interested in exploring other Ford lineup models? Feel free to check out our deep-dive reviews on the Research Ford Explorer hub, Research Ford F-150, Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory, Research Ford Maverick, Research Ford Mustang, or our heavy-duty workhorses like Research Ford F-250 and Research Ford F-250 Super Duty. Test Drive the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Today at Valor Ford in Junction City The best way to experience the quiet cabin, smooth 300-hp EcoBoost power, and intuitive dual-screen Ford Digital Experience of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active is behind the wheel. Visit Jace Grabouski and our friendly sales team at Valor Ford located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. Get Directions to Valor Ford or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to schedule your test drive today! Research Ford Explorer