The Ford Explorer has always been a strong fit for drivers who want real SUV usefulness without moving all the way up to a full-size vehicle. It has three rows, confident power, family-friendly tech, and enough capability for road trips, weekend projects, school drop-offs, and drives across Kern County. For 2027, the Explorer lineup keeps that well-rounded personality while adding more style, more available performance, and a few smart updates that make it easier to find the version that fits your life.
At Jim Burke Ford, our team is excited to help Bakersfield drivers get familiar with the latest Explorer. Here is a closer look at what is new, what carries over, and why the 2027 Ford Explorer remains such a practical choice for families, commuters, and weekend explorers.
A Familiar Three-Row SUV With Fresh 2027 Updates
The 2027 Ford Explorer is not trying to reinvent what already works. Instead, Ford focused on sharpening the lineup with more available features and more personality across key trims. The Explorer still offers three-row seating, a confident rear-wheel-drive-based platform, available Intelligent 4WD, a standard 10-speed automatic transmission, and a cabin designed around everyday comfort.
For shoppers comparing midsize SUVs, the Explorer continues to stand out because it feels useful in more than one setting. It is comfortable enough for the daily commute on Highway 99, spacious enough for family errands around Bakersfield, and capable enough for towing small recreational gear when properly equipped. You can browse our current new Ford Explorer inventory online to see which trims and colors are available now.
2027 Ford Explorer Trim Lineup
The 2027 Explorer lineup includes five main trims: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum. That gives shoppers a clear path depending on what they value most. The Explorer Active is the well-equipped starting point, offering the core comfort, technology, and practicality many families want. The ST-Line adds a sportier look without requiring the full performance setup of the ST. The Tremor brings a more rugged personality, making it appealing for drivers who want extra trail-ready confidence. The ST is the performance-focused choice, while the Platinum emphasizes premium comfort and upscale details.
This structure makes the Explorer easier to shop because each trim has a distinct purpose. Need a comfortable three-row SUV for errands, school, and road trips? Start with Active. Want something sharper-looking? Look at ST-Line. Want more adventure-ready hardware? Tremor is the one to know. Want serious power? ST delivers. Want a more refined cabin? Platinum is built for that.
New Style Options, Including the ST Sinister Package
One of the most attention-grabbing updates for 2027 is the available ST Sinister Package. This new package gives the Explorer ST a darker, more aggressive appearance, including gloss black design cues, unique lighting details, and a bold performance-inspired look. For drivers who like the Explorer ST because of its power but want something with even more curb appeal, the Sinister Package should be high on the list.
Ford also adds new exterior color options for 2027, including Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. These colors give the Explorer lineup a fresh look without changing the SUV’s overall design language. Another new touch is the Slick Roof Conversion option, which lets shoppers delete the standard roof rails for a cleaner exterior profile on select models. For drivers who prefer a sleeker, more streamlined look, that small detail can make a big visual difference.
More Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Power
Powertrain choice is another important part of the 2027 Explorer story. The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 remains the standard engine for several trims, delivering a strong balance of everyday performance and efficiency. It is rated at 300 horsepower, giving the Explorer plenty of confidence for merging, passing, and loaded family driving.
The available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is the engine to look at for shoppers who want more muscle. For 2027, Ford lists the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 as standard on the Explorer ST and available on select trims like Tremor and Platinum. In the ST, this twin-turbocharged V6 delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, giving the Explorer a much more energetic feel than many three-row SUVs. The Platinum’s available V6 is especially worth noting because it gives luxury-focused shoppers the option to pair a premium cabin with stronger performance.
When properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. That makes it useful for small campers, trailers, utility loads, and weekend toys, while still staying easy to drive around town.
Explorer Tremor Adds Rugged Confidence
The Explorer Tremor continues to be one of the most interesting choices in the lineup. It brings a more adventurous edge to the Explorer, with standard Intelligent 4WD, all-terrain tires, off-road-tuned suspension, and a Torsen limited-slip rear axle. For Bakersfield drivers who spend time around mountain roads, camping areas, job sites, or rougher weekend destinations, the Tremor gives the Explorer a more confident personality away from smooth pavement.
The Tremor also offers an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6, so shoppers do not have to choose between rugged styling and stronger performance. It is still a practical three-row SUV, but it feels more specialized than the Active or ST-Line. For families who want one vehicle that can handle weekday routines and weekend exploring, the Explorer Tremor is one of the most compelling 2027 updates to consider.
Technology That Feels Built Around Daily Life
Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer continues to focus on simple, useful technology. The Ford Digital Experience includes a 13.2-inch center display and a 12.3-inch digital cluster, helping keep navigation, entertainment, vehicle information, and smartphone features easy to access. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are available, and many trims offer thoughtful touches like multiple USB ports, available premium audio, and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology.
For family use, the Explorer’s cabin layout is one of its biggest strengths. It offers three rows, flexible seating, and generous cargo space when the rear seats are folded. Depending on configuration, shoppers can choose seating for six or seven passengers. That flexibility matters for growing families, carpool duty, sports gear, or visiting relatives.
Which 2027 Ford Explorer Trim Is Right for You?
The best 2027 Explorer depends on what you want your SUV to do most often. The Explorer Active is a smart starting point for drivers who want a comfortable, capable, well-equipped SUV without overcomplicating the shopping process. The ST-Line is a strong fit for shoppers who like sporty styling, black exterior accents, and a more athletic look.
The Tremor is the trim to consider when you want extra confidence for rough roads and outdoor adventures. The ST is ideal for drivers who want the most exciting Explorer performance. The Platinum is the refined choice, especially for shoppers who want premium materials, upscale design, and available V6 power. Our team can walk you through the differences in person, or you can start by exploring our Ford Explorer research and inventory page.
Shop the 2027 Ford Explorer at Jim Burke Ford
The 2027 Ford Explorer keeps the qualities that have made it a popular three-row SUV while adding meaningful updates for style, capability, and performance. The new ST Sinister Package gives performance shoppers a bolder look, the expanded V6 availability adds more flexibility, and the Tremor continues to give adventurous drivers a more rugged Explorer option.
When you are ready to compare trims, review pricing, or take the next step toward a new Explorer, visit Jim Burke Ford in Bakersfield. You can browse our new Ford Explorer inventory, explore Ford financing options, estimate your trade through our trade-in tool, or contact our team with any questions. From daily driving around Bakersfield to family trips beyond Kern County, the 2027 Ford Explorer is ready for what comes next.
