Active or Platinum? Choosing Your 2026 Ford Explorer Trim

The 2026 Ford Explorer continues its legacy as one of Canada's most trusted three-row SUVs, offering families space, technology, and capability. For Nova Scotia drivers navigating daily commutes, school runs, and weekend adventures, choosing between the Active and Platinum trims means deciding which features matter most for your lifestyle.

Both deliver standard four-wheel drive and Ford's latest connectivity, but their design philosophies differ. Understanding these differences helps you invest in the right Explorer for your needs.

What Makes the Active Trim Stand Out

The Explorer Active targets drivers who value adventure-ready design without sacrificing everyday comfort. Its bold, outdoorsy appearance stands apart from more traditional SUV styling. Standard 18-inch Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels provide a solid foundation, with optional 20-inch Carbonized Gray or Luster Nickel wheels available for those seeking a more commanding presence.

Inside, durable synthetic seating surfaces resist wear and simplify cleanup - ideal for families with active lifestyles or pet owners. The Active's design philosophy emphasizes versatility, making it equally suited for grocery runs and gravel roads.

Standard four-wheel drive ensures confident handling in Nova Scotia's varied weather conditions, from coastal rain to winter snow. The Active's stance and styling signal capability without requiring extreme off-road modifications.

Platinum: Refined Luxury for Everyday Use

The Platinum trim delivers premium materials and advanced features throughout. Its upscale grille design and standard 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted aluminum wheels create an elevated visual presence. Optional 20-inch polished aluminum or 21-inch dark alloy polished wheels further enhance the exterior.

Interior appointments distinguish the Platinum from other Explorer models. Standard seating surfaces feature sophisticated materials, with available premium leather packages introducing refined textures and accent stitching. Buyers can select between Mojave Dusk or Salt Crystal Gray interior environments to match their aesthetic preferences.

An available 400-horsepower 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine - the same powerplant found in the Explorer ST - transforms the Platinum into a refined performance SUV. This combination delivers confident highway merging and effortless passing power while maintaining three-row practicality.

Technology and Connectivity Across Both Trims

Both Active and Platinum models benefit from Ford's comprehensive technology suite. The Ford Digital Experience infotainment system anchors the cabin with a 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen and 12.3-inch colour LCD digital cluster, providing clear access to vehicle functions and entertainment.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility allow smartphone integration, with navigation apps displaying on both the touchscreen and instrument cluster. Alexa built-in and Google built-in services expand voice control capabilities. Eight USB ports - including two dedicated to third-row passengers - ensure everyone stays charged on longer journeys.

Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and reverse parking assist. Both trims qualify for available BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free highway driving technology, though this feature requires activation through a Connected Services plan. The system includes Lane Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning, reducing driver fatigue during highway commutes or long-distance travel.

Performance and Capability Comparison

The Active trim comes standard with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine paired with a recalibrated 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. This powertrain delivers responsive acceleration suitable for daily driving while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency. The Active's suspension tuning balances ride comfort with controlled handling.

Platinum buyers receive the same 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine as standard, but can upgrade to the 400-horsepower 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6. This engine produces 415 lb-ft of torque, providing substantial power reserves for towing, highway passing, or spirited driving.

Both trims include a Class III Trailer Tow Package as standard equipment, enabling families to haul recreational gear, small trailers, or utility loads. Four-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup, ensuring confident traction in challenging conditions. The power liftgate simplifies cargo loading.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Standard equipment across both trims includes a 10-way power, heated driver's seat and 4-way power, heated front passenger seat. Three 12-volt powerpoints supplement the USB charging options. LED headlamps with auto high beams improve visibility during early morning or evening drives, while the rearview camera assists with parking in tight spaces.

Available features on select trims include heated second-row seats, PowerFold third-row seats for easier cargo access, ambient lighting, rain-sensing wipers, and a wireless charging pad for compatible smartphones. These conveniences accumulate into a noticeably more refined daily driving experience.

Interior Space and Passenger Comfort

Both Active and Platinum deliver three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers depending on configuration. The redesigned interior features softer touchpoints and premium materials, with new wrap-and-stitch soft-touch surfaces on the center console, door panels, and dashboard.

Second-row passengers benefit from generous legroom and available heated seats on Platinum models. Third-row access improves through the PowerFold feature available on select trims, allowing easier entry and exit without manual seat adjustments. Eight USB ports ensure device charging reaches every row.

Cargo capacity remains generous with all seats in use, expanding significantly when the third row folds flat. The power liftgate simplifies loading bulky items, while the reconfigurable cargo area accommodates everything from weekly groceries to camping gear.

Key Differences at a Glance

Which Explorer Trim Suits Your Commute?

Choosing between Active and Platinum depends on how you prioritize style, features, and performance. The Active appeals to drivers who value adventure-ready aesthetics, durable materials, and practical capability. Its standard features cover essential needs, while available packages add comfort enhancements. Families with active lifestyles, pet owners, or buyers who frequently venture onto unpaved roads will appreciate the Active's rugged character and easy-to-clean interior surfaces.

The Platinum targets buyers seeking refined luxury, premium materials, and available high-performance capability. Its upscale interior appointments, sophisticated styling, and optional 400-horsepower engine create an appealing alternative to luxury-branded SUVs. Commuters who prioritize comfort during long drives, buyers who frequently transport clients or business associates, or families who want the Explorer's most refined expression will find the Platinum's additional features worthwhile.

Both trims deliver Ford's latest technology, standard four-wheel drive, and three-row practicality. Your decision reflects whether you lean toward rugged versatility or refined luxury in your daily driver.

Experience the 2026 Explorer at Valley Ford

The 2026 Ford Explorer Active and Platinum offer distinct approaches to three-row SUV ownership, each delivering capability and technology suited to Nova Scotia drivers. Whether you're drawn to the Active's adventure-ready design or the Platinum's refined luxury, both trims provide the space, features, and confidence families need.

Visit our team at Valley Ford to explore both trims in person, compare features side-by-side, and learn more about available packages. Our product specialists can answer questions about technology features and help you find the right Explorer for your family's needs.