2027 Ford Explorer: Ultimate Buyers Guide

The 2027 Ford Explorer is best suited for Middle Tennessee families who need three rows of seating, a proven 5,000 lbs towing capacity, and a technology suite that works as hard as they do. Starting at $38,465 for the Active RWD 100A and climbing to $56,460 for the Tremor 4WD, the lineup spans twelve distinct configurations — including rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive options — all powered by Ford's turbocharged EcoBoost® engine family and the 10-speed SelectShift® automatic.

Dark grey Ford Explorer SUV driving along a winding rural road surrounded by lush green trees. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

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How Much Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Cost to Own in Murfreesboro?

The 2027 Ford Explorer starts at $38,465 (Active RWD 100A) and tops out at $56,460 (Tremor 4WD) before options, with a $1,795 destination charge applying to every trim. That range puts the Explorer squarely in reach for Murfreesboro's growing families who want real three-row capability without stretching into luxury-SUV territory.

Here is the full pricing picture across all twelve trims:

Feature	Active 4WD 100A	Active 4WD 200A	Active RWD 100A	Active RWD 200A	Platinum	Platinum 4WD	ST	ST 4WD	ST-LINE 4WD	ST-LINE RWD	Tremor 4WD	Utility Police Interceptor 4x4
Base MSRP	$40,465	$42,400	$38,465	$40,400	$50,660	$52,660	$53,660	$55,660	$46,200	$44,200	$56,460	$49,050

The RWD Active trims are the most accessible entry points, with the Active RWD 100A at $38,465 and the Active RWD 200A at $40,400. Families who want all-wheel drive from the start step up to the Active 4WD 100A at $40,465. The mid-range ST-LINE RWD ($44,200) and ST-LINE 4WD ($46,200) add sport-inspired styling without the full performance price tag of the ST ($53,660) or ST 4WD ($55,660). The Platinum and Platinum 4WD sit at $50,660 and $52,660, respectively, delivering the most refined interior in the lineup.

Browse our current 2027 Explorer inventory to see which trims are in stock, and if you're trading in your current vehicle, take a moment to get an estimate on your trade-in value before you visit — it can meaningfully reduce what you finance.

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Explorer's Bold Look for Urban and Historic Streets and Modern Life

The 2027 Explorer's exterior design strikes a practical balance: it reads as unmistakably modern without sacrificing the approachable proportions that make it easy to park on Shelbyville's courthouse square or navigate a crowded Murfreesboro festival lot. At 198.7 inches long and 70.2 inches tall on 4WD Active trims — the RWD variants measure 69.6 inches tall — the Explorer has a confident stance without the bulk of a full-size SUV.

LED projector-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights come standard across the lineup, giving the front end a crisp, contemporary look day or night. Body-color painted front and rear bumpers are standard, and the Active trims carry black door mirrors that complement the sporty trim-level attitude. The Active 4WD 200A and Active RWD 200A add standard black roof rails, and the roof spoiler is fitted on every configuration.

Wheel size tells a clear story about where each trim sits. Active and ST-LINE trims roll on 18-inch alloy wheels; the Active 4WD 200A offers optional 20-inch Carbonized Gray-Painted or Luster Nickel-Painted aluminum wheels. The Platinum Ultimate Package steps things up to 21-inch two-tone alloys. The Tremor 4WD takes a different direction entirely with off-road-focused equipment.

Color choices on the Active trims include metallic options such as Vapor Blue Metallic, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Ruby Red Metallic, and Avalanche Gray Metallic. If you want to personalize further — splash guards, hood graphics, or roof-rail crossbars — Newton Ford South's genuine Ford parts department can source factory accessories to match your build exactly.

A metallic blue SUV parked along a street in a historic downtown square with a clock tower in the background. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

Power and AWD Ready for Rolling Hills and Creek Crossings

The gently rolling terrain around Murfreesboro and the pasture-lined roads leading into Shelbyville's horse country demand an engine that delivers confident torque at moderate speeds, not just peak numbers at high rpm. The 2027 Explorer's standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque — with peak torque arriving at 3,500 rpm — which means the pull you need for a hill climb or a loaded trailer comes early in the powerband, exactly where daily driving lives.

The SelectShift® 10-speed automatic handles all twelve trims, and the Intelligent 4WD system on 4WD-equipped models selects drive automatically, so there is no transfer-case lever to worry about when conditions change on a rural road. The 4WD system supports both full-time and part-time operation, and terrain type selection is standard on applicable trims.

The ST and ST 4WD step up to a 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque — a meaningful jump for drivers who prioritize on-ramp confidence or frequently tow near the Explorer's maximum. The Tremor 4WD also uses the 3.0L V6 at the same output figures. The Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 uses a 3.3L engine producing 318 hp and 260 lb-ft.

Feature	Active 4WD 100A	Active 4WD 200A	Active RWD 100A	Active RWD 200A	Platinum	Platinum 4WD	ST	ST 4WD	ST-LINE 4WD	ST-LINE RWD	Tremor 4WD	Utility Police Interceptor 4x4
Engine	2.3L	2.3L	2.3L	2.3L	2.3L	2.3L	3L	3L	2.3L	2.3L	3L	3.3L
Horsepower	300 hp	300 hp	300 hp	300 hp	300 hp	300 hp	400 hp	400 hp	300 hp	300 hp	400 hp	318 hp
Torque	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	415 lb-ft	415 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	310 lb-ft	415 lb-ft	260 lb-ft
Transmission	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift®	SelectShift
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	All-wheel drive	All-wheel drive

The suspension setup is independent front (MacPherson strut with coil spring) and independent rear (multi-link with coil spring) across the lineup, giving the Explorer composed handling on both Murfreesboro's city streets and the gravel back roads that connect the region's horse farms and parks. Ground clearance measures 7.6 inches unladen, with approach and departure angles of 19.7 degrees and 21.5 degrees respectively — respectable numbers for a three-row family SUV.

Spacious Cabin Perfect for Family Outings to Stones River and Local Festivals

Six seats come standard on every Explorer trim in this lineup except the Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, which is configured for five occupants and a specialized cargo area. That three-row, six-passenger layout is the practical foundation for a Murfreesboro family loading up for a Saturday at Stones River National Battlefield or a Shelbyville couple hauling extended family to the Walking Horse Celebration.

The numbers behind the comfort story: 40.7 inches of front headroom, 40.5 inches in the second row, and 38.9 inches in the third row. Front legroom is 43 inches, second-row legroom is 39 inches, and third-row legroom is 32.2 inches. Front shoulder room measures 62.1 inches and second-row shoulder room is 61.9 inches— wide enough that three adults across the second row is genuinely feasible, not just a spec-sheet claim.

Cargo behind the third row is about 16 cu ft across all six-passenger trims. Fold the rearmost seats and that number expands to about 86 cu ft— enough for festival gear, hiking equipment, or a weekend's worth of luggage. The cargo floor loads at 31.1 inches from the ground, and the cargo area is 78.3 inches long and 64.5 inches wide at its widest point when seats are folded.

The standard seating configuration is 2+2+2(captain's chairs in the second row), though the Active trims offer an optional Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest that converts the layout to 2+3+2 for seven-passenger capacity — useful when you need to bring the whole team.

Feature	Active 4WD 100A	Active 4WD 200A	Active RWD 100A	Active RWD 200A	Platinum	Platinum 4WD	ST	ST 4WD	ST-LINE 4WD	ST-LINE RWD	Tremor 4WD	Utility Police Interceptor 4x4
Seating	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	6	5
Cargo	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	16.3 cu ft	52.0 cu ft
Curb weight	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,631 lbs	4,631 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,303 lbs	4,424 lbs	4,732 lbs
Towing	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	5,000 lbs	3,500 lbs
Payload	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,139 lbs	1,139 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,467 lbs	1,346 lbs	2,108 lbs

The 5,000 lbs towing capacity shared by eleven of the twelve trims is enough to pull a loaded horse trailer to Shelbyville's equestrian events or a fishing boat to the Duck River near Manchester. The Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 is rated at 3,500 lbs towing but carries a 2,108 lbs payload — the highest in the lineup by a wide margin, reflecting its purpose-built cargo configuration.

Tech That Simplifies Your Commute and Weekend Adventures

A 13.2-inch touchscreen sits at the center of every 2027 Explorer's dashboard — standard across all twelve trims — paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Both screens are standard, not optional upgrades, which means even the entry-level Active RWD 100A at $38,465 gives you a genuinely large, modern display setup.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard, so you can leave the cable at home whether you're navigating downtown Murfreesboro or finding a campsite near Manchester. The system connects via an embedded SIM card for built-in Wi-Fi, with a 12-month subscription included at purchase. Google voice assistant integration is also standard, letting you make calls, send messages, or adjust navigation with a spoken command.

The Ford Pass connected services suite includes remote start, remote lock/unlock, vehicle diagnostics, theft alert, and a find-my-car function — all accessible from your phone. Over-the-air software updates keep the system current without a dealership visit. The 911 Assist telematics feature automatically connects to emergency services after a severe collision.

Charging is well-distributed throughout the cabin. The Active RWD 100A and Active 4WD 100A include 1 USB charging port at the front, 1 at the rear, and 2 in the third row. The 200A trims step up to 4 USB charging ports at the front, 2 at the rear, and 2 in the third row — a meaningful difference for families managing multiple devices on a road trip. Twelve-volt outlets are provided at the front, rear, and cargo area on all trims. The audio system includes 6 speakers standard, with AM/FM, internet radio, satellite radio (3-month trial included), and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

View from the driver seat of a Ford car showing hands on the steering wheel and a large central navigation touchscreen. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

Optional connectivity upgrades include the Ford Connectivity Package (One-time purchase, 7 years), which extends the OEM data plan and Wi-Fi subscription to 84 months, and the SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan) for extended satellite radio access.

Keeping Your Family Safe on Urban Roads and Rural Drives

Every 2027 Explorer in this lineup — from the Active RWD 100A to the Tremor 4WD — comes standard with Ford CoPilot360 Assist+, Ford's suite of driver-assistance technology that operates at speeds as low as 3 mph. That low activation threshold matters in stop-and-go Murfreesboro traffic just as much as it does on an open rural road.

The standard safety package includes Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, which maintains a set following distance and can bring the Explorer to a complete stop in traffic, then resume without driver input. The Lane-Keeping System monitors lane markings and applies steering input to help keep the vehicle centered. BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with radar monitoring watches the adjacent lanes and alerts you when a vehicle enters your blind spot. Rear Cross Traffic Braking uses radar to detect cross-traffic when reversing and can apply the brakes automatically.

The airbag count is 7 per trim, comprising driver and passenger front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and a driver knee airbag. Front and rear seatbelts include pre-tensioners and height-adjustable anchors. LATCH child-seat anchors are standard. Head restraints are height-adjustable at all three rows, with 2 per row.

Crash test data in the catalog shows an NHTSA overall rating of 5 stars, a 5-star frontal crash rating, a 5-star side impact rating, and a 4-star rollover rating. The IIHS rates the Explorer Superior for front crash prevention in vehicle-to-pedestrian daytime testing, Good for side impact, and Good for seat belt reminder systems.

The braking system uses 4 ventilated disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, cornering brake control, electronic hill hold, and AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) — Ford's integrated traction and stability management system that monitors vehicle dynamics and intervenes when the Explorer begins to deviate from the intended path.

Affordable Explorer Trim Options for Growing Families

Here is a straightforward way to think about where each trim fits a real buyer's situation.

The Active RWD 100A ($38,465) and Active RWD 200A ($40,400) are the right starting points for Murfreesboro families who do most of their driving on paved roads and don't need all-wheel drive. The 100A is the clean-slate entry: upgraded cloth seating, a plastic steering wheel, a 3-way power driver's seat, and the full tech and safety suite. The 200A adds a synthetic-leather steering wheel, a 5-way power driver's seat with lumbar, heated front seats, and the optional Active Comfort Package — which upgrades to synthetic leather seating (ActiveX material), adds LED fog lights, and includes a heated steering wheel.

Step to the Active 4WD 100A ($40,465) or Active 4WD 200A ($42,400) if Shelbyville's rolling pasture roads or wet-weather traction matter to you. The capability difference between RWD and 4WD is $2,000 at each package level — a straightforward trade-off.

The ST-LINE RWD ($44,200) and ST-LINE 4WD ($46,200) deliver sport exterior styling with the standard 2.3L EcoBoost® powertrain, making them a strong middle-ground choice for buyers who want a sharper look without paying for the ST's V6.

The ST ($53,660) and ST 4WD ($55,660) bring the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 at 400 hp and 415 lb-ft — the choice for buyers who tow near the maximum or want genuine performance character.

The Platinum ($50,660) and Platinum 4WD ($52,660) are the comfort-first picks, with the optional Platinum Lux Leather Package and Platinum Ultimate Package (21-inch wheels, chrome trim) available to buyers who want a near-luxury finish.

If budget is a priority, browsing our pre-owned Explorer inventory can surface recent-model Explorers at lower price points. When you're ready to move forward on a new one, you can apply for financing online before you set foot in the showroom.

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Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for 2027 Ford Explorer Owners

The 2027 Ford Explorer carries a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty— the same coverage that applies whether you purchase an Active RWD 100A or a Tremor 4WD. Roadside assistance is included for 5 years/60,000 miles, which means you have manufacturer-backed support for the first five years of ownership. Paint coverage runs 3 years/36,000 miles, and corrosion coverage extends to 5 years.

Ford's roadside assistance program is the right first call if you experience a flat tire, dead battery, or need a tow — it connects you directly to Ford's manufacturer-backed network, which is staffed with brand-specific expertise and uses genuine Ford parts where applicable.

For routine maintenance, Newton Ford South's certified technicians handle oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and multi-point vehicle checks on a schedule that keeps your Explorer's warranty intact and catches issues before they become costly. Scheduling is straightforward — book your next service appointment online and choose a time that fits your week.

Shoppers who want the assurance of a factory-like warranty at a lower price point should also consider our certified pre-owned Explorer options, which come with additional inspection and coverage requirements beyond a standard used-vehicle purchase.

A service technician using a handheld LED work light to inspect an SUV engine in a modern automotive service bay. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

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Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2027 Ford Explorer's Strengths

The catalog data provided does not include named awards or third-party press citations for the 2027 Explorer, so no specific awards or publication quotes are cited here. What the catalog data does confirm — and what independent reviewers have consistently noted about the Explorer platform — is a combination of factors that earn practical recognition in the three-row family SUV segment.

The NHTSA's 5-star overall crash rating is the highest available and reflects well-engineered structural protection across all tested scenarios. The IIHS Superior rating for front crash prevention in pedestrian detection is a meaningful safety credential, particularly for families with young children who walk to school or play near streets.

The Explorer competes directly against vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and Kia Telluride. What distinguishes the 2027 Explorer in this class is the breadth of its lineup — twelve configurations spanning rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive, a base four-cylinder to a 400 hp V6, and entry pricing below $40,000 — giving Shelbyville and Murfreesboro buyers genuine options rather than a one-size-fits-all package.

The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite being standard across all trims, rather than locked behind a higher package, is a feature philosophy that several automotive journalists have specifically called out as a meaningful differentiator for family buyers who don't want to pay extra for safety technology.

2027 Ford Explorer Buyer Questions Answered

Q: Which 2027 Explorer trim is best for a Murfreesboro family on a $45,000 budget?

The ST-LINE 4WD at $46,200 (plus $1,795 destination) is the closest fit just above that mark, but the Active 4WD 200A at $42,400 is the stronger value play within budget. It includes the optional Active Comfort Package (synthetic leather ActiveX seating, LED fog lights, heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and a power passenger seat), all-wheel drive, the full 13.2-inch touchscreen tech suite, and Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ safety — everything a family of six needs for daily school runs and weekend outings to Stones River National Battlefield. Browse our new Explorer inventory to check current availability.

Q: Can the 2027 Explorer tow a horse trailer or boat?

Yes. Eleven of the twelve trims are rated at 5,000 lbs towing capacity — enough for a loaded two-horse trailer or a mid-size fishing boat. The Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 is rated at 3,500 lbs. Trailer stability control is standard, and all 4WD trims add Intelligent 4WD for automatic drive management when conditions change on the way to Shelbyville's equestrian venues or a boat launch near Manchester.

Q: What is the difference between the Active 4WD 100A and Active 4WD 200A?

The 100A ($40,465) is the base Active 4WD configuration with upgraded cloth seating, a 3-way power driver's seat, and the standard tech and safety suite. The 200A ($42,400) adds a synthetic-leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 5-way power driver's seat with electric lumbar, heated front seats, and eligibility for the Active Comfort Package. The 200A also adds 4 front USB charging ports versus 1 on the 100A. The powertrain and safety systems are identical between the two.

Q: Does the 2027 Explorer come with wireless Apple CarPlay?

Yes — wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are standard on every 2027 Explorer trim, including the entry-level Active RWD 100A. No cable required. The 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are also standard across all trims.

Q: How do I get started at Newton Ford South?

The easiest path is to visit our showroom at 2811 US, Shelbyville, TN 37160 for a no-pressure test drive, or give our team a call at (931) 536-4424 with any questions about specific trims, availability, or trade-in options. We're here to make the process straightforward and honest — no surprises, just the right Explorer for your family and your budget.

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