2026 Ford Explorer Interior Deep Dive in Salem

Drivers shopping for a three-row Ford SUV usually want answers fast. How comfortable is it? How much room is there for passengers across three rows? Does the interior tech actually make daily driving easier? The 2026 Ford Explorer interior delivers with a well-balanced cabin that blends space, smart storage, advanced technology, and everyday comfort. At Berglund Ford Salem in Salem, VA, the Explorer continues to stand out in the Ford SUV lineup for families, commuters, and drivers who want the flexibility of a larger SUV without the size of a Ford Expedition.

This 2026 Ford Explorer interior deep dive breaks down seating dimensions, cargo space, materials, interior features, and technology features so you can decide if this Ford Explorer fits your automotive needs before you see it in person at a trusted Ford dealership.

Cabin Layout and Interior Design in the 2026 Ford Explorer

The interior of the 2026 Ford Explorer is designed around space efficiency and driver comfort. The cabin uses a wide dashboard layout that improves forward visibility while keeping essential controls within easy reach of drivers. Controls are logically placed, and storage areas are integrated throughout the interior to support long drives, daily commuting, and family hauling.

Depending on trim level, interior finishes range from durable cloth surfaces to premium leather in models such as the Ford Explorer Platinum. Soft-touch materials are used on high-contact areas, and metallic accents add contrast without overwhelming the cabin.

The Explorer interior maintains a quiet, controlled environment thanks to solid door seals and available acoustic glass. This helps reduce road noise and creates a more relaxed cabin for passengers across three rows.

Seating Capacity and Passenger Space Across Three Rows

The 2026 Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers, making it a practical option for families who need three rows without moving up to a full-size Ford SUV. Select configurations offer seating for six with second row captain’s chairs.

Interior Passenger Dimensions

Interior dimensions play a big role in comfort, especially on longer trips. The Explorer provides competitive space across all rows.

• First row headroom: 40.7 inches
• Second row headroom: 40.5 inches
• Third row headroom: 38.9 inches
• First row legroom: 43 inches
• Second row legroom: 37.5 inches
• Third row legroom: 31.8 inches
• Passenger volume: 150.3 cubic feet

The first row offers generous legroom and shoulder room for drivers and front seat passengers, while the second row comfortably accommodates adults. The third row is best suited for children or shorter trips, but remains usable thanks to 31.8 inches of legroom.

Front Seats and Driver Comfort Features

Driver comfort is a clear priority inside the 2026 Ford Explorer. The front seats are designed for long drives and daily use, with supportive cushioning and wide seat bases.

Standard and available front seat features vary by trim but may include:

• Power-adjustable driver seat with lumbar support
• Heated front seats on select trims
• Ventilated front seats on higher trims
• Available massaging front seats on the Ford Explorer Platinum
• Leather-trimmed seating surfaces on premium trims

The driver's seat offers a commanding seating position that improves visibility and confidence behind the wheel. Steering-wheel adjustments and pedal placement help drivers of different heights achieve a comfortable driving position.

Second Row Seating Flexibility and Comfort

The second row in the 2026 Ford Explorer is designed to balance comfort with third-row access. Depending on trim levels, buyers can choose a bench seat or captain’s chairs.

Second row features and specs include:

• 60/40 split folding bench seat or dual captain’s chairs
• Sliding second row seats for easier third row access
• Heated second row seats on select trims
• Rear climate control vents
• USB charging ports for passengers

Second row legroom of 37.5 inches allows adult passengers to sit comfortably, even on longer trips. Wide door openings make entry and exit easier, especially when installing child seats.

Third Row Seating Practicality

Third-row seating is often an afterthought in midsize SUVs, but the Ford Explorer's interior makes it usable for real passengers. With 38.9 inches of headroom and 31.8 inches of legroom, the third row works well for kids, teens, or shorter adults.

Third row highlights include:

• EasyFold seat access from the second row
• Flat folding seats for added cargo flexibility
• Integrated cupholders and storage areas

The third row folds flat when not in use, allowing the Explorer to shift quickly from people hauler to cargo carrier.

Cargo Space and Interior Storage Solutions

Cargo space is a major reason many shoppers choose the Ford Explorer over smaller Ford models like the Ford Edge or Ford Bronco Sport. The Explorer interior offers flexible cargo capacity that adapts to daily driving, road trips, and towing needs.

Cargo Capacity Specs

• Cargo volume behind third row: 16.3 cubic feet
• Cargo volume behind second row: 46 cubic feet
• Cargo volume behind first row: 85.8 cubic feet

With all seats in place, the Explorer still provides enough room for groceries or sports gear. Folding the third row opens up nearly 46 cubic feet, and folding both rear rows creates a flat load floor with up to 85.8 cubic feet of space.

Additional interior storage includes:

• Center console storage bin
• Door pocket storage
• Underfloor cargo storage
• Available hands-free power liftgate

Interior Technology and Digital Displays

Technology features play a big role in how modern Ford vehicles feel, and the 2026 Ford Explorer interior delivers an intuitive digital experience. The dashboard integrates screens that are easy to read without distracting drivers.

Ford Digital Experience and Displays

• 13.2-inch center touchscreen display
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Customizable driver display layouts
• Voice recognition controls

The Ford Digital Experience allows drivers to customize information displays and easily access vehicle data, navigation, and media. Screen responsiveness is quick, and menus are designed for simple navigation.

Technology and Infotainment Features

The Explorer's interior features a wide range of technology and infotainment capabilities designed to keep drivers and passengers connected.

Available technology features include:

• Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
• Bluetooth® connectivity
• Wireless device charging pad
• Wi Fi hotspot capability
• Premium audio system options

Audio quality varies by trim, with the available Bang & Olufsen Sound System delivering enhanced clarity for music and podcasts during long drives.

Climate Control and Cabin Comfort Systems

Interior comfort goes beyond seats and space. The 2026 Ford Explorer includes climate features that help keep the cabin comfortable in changing weather conditions.

Climate-related features may include:

• Tri-zone automatic climate control
• Rear seat climate vents
• Heated steering wheel on select trims
• Remote start functionality

These systems allow drivers and passengers to tailor cabin temperature settings, which is especially helpful when transporting passengers across three rows.

Interior Differences Across Ford Explorer Trim Levels

Interior features vary across trims, giving shoppers flexibility when choosing between Explorer models.

• Explorer Active and Active 100A focus on durability and essential comfort features.
• Explorer ST Line adds sport-inspired interior accents and upgraded materials.
• Explorer Tremor emphasizes rugged interior elements and easy clean surfaces.
• Ford Explorer Platinum delivers premium leather seating, massaging front seats, and upscale trim finishes.
• Explorer ST blends performance styling with high-end interior technology.

These trim levels allow buyers to choose the interior experience that best fits their driving habits and lifestyle.

How the Explorer Interior Fits into the Ford SUV Lineup

Within the Ford SUV lineup, the Explorer sits between compact options like the Ford Escape and larger vehicles like the Ford Expedition. It offers more interior space and cargo flexibility than the Ford Edge while remaining easier to maneuver than full-size Ford SUVs.

Drivers comparing Ford models such as the Ford Ranger, Ford Maverick, or Ford Mustang Mach-E will notice that the Explorer's interior is built around passenger comfort and storage rather than a performance-focused layout.

See the 2026 Ford Explorer Interior in Person at Berglund Ford Salem

Reading specs is helpful, but stepping inside the Explorer in person makes the difference clear. At Berglund Ford Salem in Salem, VA, shoppers can explore Ford inventory, compare Explorer trim levels, and experience interior features firsthand.

Whether you are upgrading from another Ford vehicle or exploring Ford models for the first time, the 2026 Ford Explorer interior offers the space, technology, and comfort many drivers are searching for in a modern three-row SUV. Visit a trusted Ford dealer to see how this Explorer fits your daily drive, long trips, and future plans.

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*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.