With the higher cost of fuel in many parts of the country, fuel economy is a primary selling point for many car shoppers. Families on the go do not want to spend their hard-earned money on a gas-guzzling SUV that will break the bank at the pump, and we can’t blame them. Tampa-area drivers interested in the Ford Explorer want to know — what are the 2026 Ford Explorer mpg specs — and we are here to answer your questions at Brandon Ford and help you find the perfect automotive fit for your family.
Guide to 2026 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy Specs
If efficient fuel economy is a priority for you when you purchase a brand-new SUV, the 2026 Ford Explorer may fit the bill. Powered by innovative Ford EcoBoost® turbocharged powertrains and available with rear-wheel drive or Intelligent 4WD, the Ford Explorer stacks up well against its competitors when you look at fuel economy specs. The 2026 Ford Explorer provides drivers with a pair of engine options to choose from — a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder and a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V-6 with Auto Start-Stop Technology that are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. When you get behind the wheel of a Ford Explorer, your fuel economy will depend on the trim level, equipment, engine, drivetrain, and your own driving habits.
Here is a better look at the fuel economy numbers for each Ford Explorer powertrain:
How Many MPG Does the Ford Explorer Get with RWD?
Entry-level 2026 Ford Explorer trim levels come standard with rear-wheel drive that provides a perfect combination of athletic performance and efficient fuel economy. Rear-wheel drive is standard on Ford Explorer Active 100A, Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trim levels and these models will deliver impressive fuel economy numbers.
- Ford Explorer 2.3-Liter EcoBoost® with RWD — 20 MPG City, 29 MPG Hwy, and 24 MPG Combined
- Ford Explorer 3.0-Liter EcoBoost® with RWD – 18 MPG City, 25 MPG Hwy, and 21 MPG Combined
How Many MPG Does the Ford Explorer Get with Intelligent 4WD?
Are you looking for a more capable SUV for those weekend adventures? The 2026 Ford Explorer with an innovative Intelligent 4WD drivetrain will check all the boxes. Intelligent 4WD is an on-demand 4WD system that automatically monitors road conditions, speed, handling, and traction as you drive and will automatically divert power to the wheels that need it, to ensure you have solid traction and remain in control. Ford Explorer models equipped with Intelligent 4WD — including the trail-rated Ford Explorer Tremor — will see lower mpg on the road and trail than RWD models.
- Ford Explorer 2.3-Liter EcoBoost® with Intelligent 4WD — 20 MPG City, 27 MPG Hwy, and 23 MPG Combined
- Ford Explorer 3.0-Liter EcoBoost® with Intelligent 4WD – 18 MPG City, 25 MPG Hwy, and 20 MPG Combined
- Ford Explorer Tremor 2.3-Liter EcoBoost® with Intelligent 4WD – 19 MPG City, 23 MPG Hwy, and 21 MPG Combined
- Ford Explorer Tremor 3.0-Liter EcoBoost® with Intelligent 4WD – 17 MPG City, 22 MPG Hwy, and 19 MPG Combined
Are you looking for a fuel-efficient and family-friendly SUV? The 2026 Ford Explorer will check a lot of boxes and this guide to Ford Explorer mpg specs will help you find the perfect fit for you, your family, and your weekend adventures. Apply for credit approval today to get behind the wheel of a 2026 Ford Explorer!