Holiday Road Trips in a 2027 Ford Explorer Active
A Three-Row SUV for Thanksgiving and Christmas Travel
Holiday travel out of Fayetteville often means a full SUV: kids or grandparents in the back, luggage and gifts behind them, and a few hours on I-49 or I-40. The 2027 Ford Explorer Active is the entry trim of Ford's three-row SUV, with seating for up to seven, a turbocharged engine and standard cold-weather comfort features. Here's how the Explorer Active handles a holiday road trip and what to check before you go. Springdale Ford is a short drive up I-49 from Fayetteville.
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2027 Ford Explorer Active Highlights
Engine & Drivetrain
The Explorer Active pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder with a 10-speed automatic.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 300 hp, with Auto Start-Stop
- Rear-wheel drive standard; Intelligent 4WD with Hill Descent Control available
- Terrain Management System with six selectable drive modes
- Standard Class III Trailer Tow Package with up to 5,000 lbs of towing
Seating & Cargo
Three rows and flexible seating make the Explorer easy to load for a trip.
- Seats six with standard second-row captain's chairs, or seven with the available bench
- 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
- Power liftgate and a 50/50 split-fold third row
Comfort & Technology
Standard features that make long winter drives easier on everyone.
- Heated front seats, heated side mirrors and tri-zone automatic climate control
- 13.2-inch center display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus USB ports in all three rows
- Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+; remote start, a heated steering wheel and an engine block heater are available
Planning a Holiday Road Trip in the Explorer Active
The Explorer Active suits families who need three rows for the holidays and a comfortable, capable SUV the rest of the year.
Packing for Six or Seven
With every seat in use, the Explorer has 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, enough for a few soft bags and a cooler. Fold one side of the 50/50 third row for extra luggage while still carrying six, or fold both for up to 85.8 cubic feet when it's just the family and the gifts. Roof-rack side rails are standard if you need a cargo box for a longer trip.
Keeping Everyone Comfortable
Tri-zone climate control lets the driver, front passenger and rear passengers each set their own temperature, and USB ports in all three rows keep devices charged. Second-row captain's chairs leave a walkway to the third row, which makes stops easier with kids or older passengers.
Winter Weather on the Way
A trip through the Ozarks or north into Missouri can mean freezing rain. The available Intelligent 4WD adjusts power between the front and rear wheels automatically, and Hill Descent Control helps on steep, slick grades. Before you leave, check tire pressure and tread, top off washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures, and pack a blanket and phone charger in case of delays.
Towing a Trailer
The standard Class III Trailer Tow Package includes Trailer Sway Control and 4- and 7-pin connectors, so you can bring a small camper or utility trailer up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Comparing the Active with the ST-Line, Tremor or Platinum? Ask our team and we'll walk you through the differences.
Why Buy Your Explorer from Springdale Ford
Springdale Ford is part of Lewis Automotive Group, which has served Northwest Arkansas since 1946. Every new vehicle includes the Lewis Guarantee.
- Locally owned, with Ford stores in Springdale and Fayetteville
- Large selection of new Explorer and Expedition SUVs
- Factory-trained service team for the life of your vehicle
- Ford parts and service in Springdale for tires, maintenance and pre-trip checks
Financing & Trade-In
Our finance team works with a range of lenders to find terms that fit your budget. You can also get an offer on your current vehicle and put that value toward your new Explorer.
2027 Ford Explorer Active FAQs
How many people does the 2027 Explorer Active seat?
Six with the standard second-row captain's chairs, or seven with the available second-row bench.
How much cargo space does the Explorer Active have?
16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
Is 4WD available on the Explorer Active?
Yes. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and Intelligent 4WD with Hill Descent Control is available.
What engine does the 2027 Explorer Active have?
A 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 rated at 300 hp, paired with a 10-speed automatic.
How much can the Explorer Active tow?
Up to 5,000 lbs with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package when properly equipped.
Where can I buy a 2027 Ford Explorer near Fayetteville, AR?
Springdale Ford at 2259 N. Thompson St. in Springdale has new Explorer inventory, a short drive from Fayetteville. Browse current inventory or contact our team.
Specifications are based on Ford's published 2027 Explorer information as of November 2026 and may vary by configuration.
See the 2027 Ford Explorer Active in Person
Visit Springdale Ford at 2259 N. Thompson St. in Springdale, a short drive from Fayetteville, to compare trims and take a test drive. Call (888) 347-5715.