Your Guide to the 2027 Ford Explorer: Space, Performance and a New Sinister Package

The Ford Explorer enters 2027 with a formula that has become considerably more interesting over the last few years. Ford refreshed the Explorer extensively for 2025, then added the rugged Tremor for 2026. For 2027, the biggest confirmed addition so far is a new Sinister Package for the performance-oriented Explorer ST, while the rest of the lineup is expected to continue largely unchanged.

That means the 2027 Ford Explorer should continue to offer something increasingly rare in the three-row SUV segment: meaningful variety. Buyers can prioritize everyday family comfort, sporty styling, genuine performance, premium features or added off-road capability without moving to an entirely different vehicle.

For drivers in Nanaimo and across Vancouver Island, that flexibility makes the Explorer worth a closer look.

What’s New on the 2027 Ford Explorer?

The most notable confirmed change is the 2027 Explorer ST Sinister Package. Ford Canada has already previewed the package, which adds a darker appearance to the Explorer ST with 21-inch Gloss Black-painted wheels, unique accent lighting and ST badges outlined in black. Amber daytime running lights provide an additional visual distinction.

Mechanically, Ford has not announced a major redesign or substantial powertrain change for 2027. That makes sense considering how recently Explorer received its redesigned cabin, new technology and revised exterior styling.

Ford Canada had not yet published the complete 2027 Explorer specifications and ordering guide at the time of writing. Therefore, the figures below are based on the current Canadian Explorer and should be considered a strong indication of what to expect rather than final 2027 specifications.

Two EcoBoost Engines with Very Different Personalities

The current Explorer lineup offers two turbocharged EcoBoost engines. The standard 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is used in the Active, ST-Line, Tremor and Platinum models and provides more than enough performance for daily driving while keeping the Explorer relatively approachable.

Drivers looking for substantially more power can move to the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6. In current Canadian specification, it develops 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It is standard in the Explorer ST and available in the Tremor. Both engines work with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

That creates two very different versions of the same three-row SUV. The 2.3-litre is well suited to families that prioritize everyday versatility, while the 3.0-litre transforms the Explorer into something considerably quicker and more engaging.

Explorer Tremor Adds Genuine Adventure Capability

The arrival of the Explorer Tremor significantly broadened the model’s appeal. Rather than simply adding rugged styling, Ford gave the Tremor hardware specifically designed for driving away from pavement. It features an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, a Torsen limited-slip rear axle, all-terrain tires, underbody protection and auxiliary lighting.

The standard engine is the 2.3-litre EcoBoost, while the 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 is available for buyers who want considerably more performance.

That combination could make Tremor particularly relevant on Vancouver Island, where an Explorer may need to handle everything from the school run to camping trips, rough access roads and weekends carrying outdoor equipment.

Three Rows Without Giving Up Useful Cargo Space

The Explorer remains first and foremost a family SUV. Depending on configuration, it can accommodate six or seven passengers. Second-row captain’s chairs are standard on most versions, while a second-row bench increases capacity to seven on applicable models. All Explorers include a third row.

With all three rows in use, the current Canadian Explorer provides approximately 461 litres of cargo space. Maximum cargo capacity reaches as much as 2,431 litres in Active and ST-Line models with the rear seating folded.

Those numbers matter because a three-row SUV needs to do more than simply provide additional seats. The Explorer offers the flexibility to carry passengers during the week and adapt for larger cargo on weekends.

Up to 5,000 Pounds of Towing Capability

Another useful Explorer advantage is towing capacity. Every current Canadian Explorer comes standard with a Class III Trailer Tow Package and can tow up to 2,267 kg, or 5,000 lb, when properly equipped. Ford lists that maximum with both the 2.3-litre and 3.0-litre EcoBoost engines.

For buyers who tow a smaller boat, utility trailer or recreational equipment, that gives the Explorer capabilities that go beyond those of many more road-focused family crossovers.

A Much More Modern Interior

One of the Explorer’s biggest improvements came with its recent interior redesign. The cabin centres around a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Ford Digital Experience, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility help drivers integrate their smartphones. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is also offered, and USB connections are available throughout all three rows.

Available Ford BlueCruise adds hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. The latest system available on Explorer also includes Automatic Lane Change functionality, which can assist with lane changes while BlueCruise is active.

This combination of technology, space and comfort makes the Explorer particularly well suited to longer family trips.

Which 2027 Ford Explorer Is Right for You?

One of Explorer’s strongest qualities is that the answer depends entirely on what you need. The Active provides the essentials and the standard 2.3-litre EcoBoost. The ST-Line adds a sportier appearance without requiring the more powerful V6. The Tremor focuses on outdoor capability, while the Platinum emphasizes comfort and premium features. The ST sits at the opposite end of the spectrum with its 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension and, for 2027, the available new Sinister Package.

The final 2027 Canadian specifications, pricing and equipment details will become clearer as Ford opens ordering for the new model year. What we already know, however, suggests the Explorer will continue to offer a compelling combination of three-row practicality, towing capability, available performance and useful technology.

Drivers interested in the 2027 Ford Explorer in Nanaimo can contact Sunshine Mountain Ford to learn more about upcoming availability, compare Explorer models and receive updates as complete Canadian ordering information becomes available.