2026 Explorer Interior Deep Dive in Bedford, VA

Drivers shopping for a three-row SUV often start with one question: Does the interior actually work for everyday life? The 2026 Ford Explorer interior answers that question with smart space planning, measured comfort, and technology that supports long drives, family schedules, and weekend towing alike. At Berglund Ford of Bedford in Bedford, VA, the Explorer remains a core part of the Ford SUV lineup thanks to an interior that balances passenger space, cargo capacity, and trim-level variety.

This 2026 Explorer interior deep dive focuses on real-world dimensions, seating layouts, materials, technology, and storage so shoppers can clearly see how the Explorer cabin fits their needs across trims such as Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST.

Cabin Layout and Interior Dimensions in the 2026 Ford Explorer

The 2026 Explorer is a true three-row SUV with interior measurements that support adults in all seating positions. Every Explorer model offers seating for up to seven passengers, with Tremor configurations seating up to six.

Interior dimension highlights include:

• Maximum seating capacity of seven passengers
• Passenger volume of up to 150.3 cubic feet
• First-row headroom measuring up to 40.7 inches
• Second-row headroom measuring up to 40.5 inches
• Third-row headroom measuring 38.9 inches
• First-row legroom measuring up to 43.0 inches
• Second-row legroom measuring 37.5 inches
• Third-row legroom measuring 31.8 inches
• First-row shoulder room measuring 62.1 inches
• Second-row shoulder room measuring 61.9 inches
• Third-row shoulder room measuring 54.6 inches

These numbers place the Explorer comfortably within the midsize SUV category while offering more usable third-row space than many compact and crossover alternatives.

Front Seats, Rear Seats, and Third-Row Comfort

Seating comfort is one of the interior’s strongest points, especially for drivers who regularly carry passengers in all three rows.

Front-seat features vary by trim and include:

• Power-adjustable front seats
• Available heated front seats
• Available ventilated front seats
• Available massaging front seats on Platinum trim
• Available leather-trimmed seating surfaces
• Available Platinum-branded leather seating on Platinum trim

Second-row seating features include:

• Heated second-row seats on Platinum trim
• Wide door openings for easier entry
• Adjustable seating positions for passenger comfort

Third-row seating provides usable space for passengers, not just occasional use. The 31.8 inches of third-row legroom allow adults to sit comfortably for shorter trips and teens to ride comfortably on longer drives.

Third-Row Access and Family-Friendly Design

Access to the third row is simplified through wide-opening rear doors and second-row seat adjustments. This makes the Explorer interior well-suited for families with children, carpools, or frequent passenger changes.

The flat cargo floor and wide rear opening also make loading strollers, coolers, or sports gear easier.

Cargo Capacity and Interior Storage Space

Cargo flexibility plays a major role in the Explorer’s interior appeal, especially for families and drivers who tow or travel often.

Cargo space specs include:

• 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row
• 46 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
• Up to 85.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity with rear seats folded

Interior storage features include:

• Wide rear cargo opening
• Flat load floor when seats are folded
• Door pockets sized for bottles and daily items
• Center console storage for devices and personal items

This cargo layout supports grocery runs, sports gear, camping equipment, and luggage for extended trips.

Driver-Focused Displays and Digital Screens

The 2026 Ford Explorer interior puts information directly in the driver’s line of sight with modern screen layouts.

Technology specs include:

• 13.2-inch center touchscreen display
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on select trims
• Clear digital speedometer and vehicle data displays
• Integrated navigation and connectivity features

Explorer ST models add a performance-oriented digital cluster layout, while Platinum trims focus on clarity and customization for long-distance driving.

Steering Wheel Design and Driver Controls

Driver ergonomics remain consistent across the Explorer lineup, with trim-specific upgrades for comfort and performance.

Steering wheel and control features include:

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel on select trims
• Flat-bottom steering wheel on ST-Line and ST trims
• Steering-wheel-mounted controls for audio and driver assistance
• Tilt-and-telescoping steering column

These features help drivers maintain comfort during daily commutes and extended highway travel.

Interior Materials and Trim Differences by Explorer Model

Each Explorer trim delivers a distinct interior feel without sacrificing functionality.

• Active and Active 100A models focus on durable seating materials and practical layouts
• ST-Line adds sport-inspired accents and contrast stitching
• Tremor models use rugged materials designed for off-road use
• Platinum trim emphasizes comfort with leather seating and upscale finishes
• ST trim blends performance cues with three-row practicality

Material choices are designed to hold up under real use rather than prioritizing appearance alone.

Climate Control and Cabin Comfort Features

Comfort inside the Explorer cabin is supported by multi-zone climate systems and thoughtful air distribution.

Interior comfort specs include:

• Multi-zone automatic climate control
• Rear air vents for second- and third-row passengers
• Available heated steering wheel
• Quiet cabin tuning for highway travel

These features help keep passengers comfortable in both hot summers and cold Virginia winters.

Advanced Tech that Supports Daily Driving

The Explorer interior integrates advanced tech designed to assist drivers rather than overwhelm them.

Technology features include:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technologies
• Available Adaptive Cruise Control
• Available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving
• Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin
• Available premium audio systems

These features support long drives, towing trips, and daily commuting without adding unnecessary complexity.

Why the 2026 Ford Explorer Interior Works for Real Drivers

The 2026 Ford Explorer interior stands out for prioritizing space, comfort, and usability over surface-level upgrades. Three-row seating, clear digital displays, strong cargo capacity, and trim-specific seating options give drivers the flexibility they need without pushing them into a larger SUV category.

Drivers exploring Ford vehicles such as the Ford Escape, Ford Edge, Ford Expedition, or Ford Bronco often choose the Explorer because its interior strikes a balance between daily comfort and towing-ready capability.

Shoppers can explore the full Ford Explorer interior experience in person at Berglund Ford of Bedford in Bedford, VA, where multiple trims and configurations make it easy to compare seating, cargo space, and interior features side by side.

*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.