Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is the three-row SUV for families who want real room for six or seven, up to 5,000 lbs of towing, and confident 4WD for South Dakota winters without stepping up to a full-size SUV. It balances space, technology, and available performance in a size that is easy to live with in town, on the highway between Bowdle and Aberdeen, and on gravel.
Nearly every Explorer we sell is 4WD, and the lineup covers the value-priced Active, the sporty ST-Line, the off-road Tremor, the performance ST, and the luxury Platinum. Both the 2026 and the 2027 Explorer are on the lot at Beadle Ford now — compare the two model years below, then shop what is in stock.
Model Year Guides
Two model years, both on the lot
The 2026 and 2027 Explorer share the same body, engines, and 5,000-lb tow rating. The 2027 adds the 3.0L V6 on the Tremor 801A and the Platinum, the ST Sinister Package, a panoramic Vista Roof, and two new colors. Each guide covers its year's trims, specs, and deep-dive articles.
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)
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Why Families Choose the Ford Explorer
Explorer offers three rows of seating without the bulk of a full-size SUV: six with second-row captain's chairs or seven with the available bench, 16.3 cu ft of cargo behind the third row, and up to 85.3 cu ft with the back rows folded. Whether it's school drop-offs, weekend tournaments, or the drive to Sioux Falls, it adapts to a family's week without needing a bigger garage.
Confident 4WD for Changing Conditions
Intelligent 4WD with selectable drive modes and Hill Descent Control handles snow, rain, gravel section roads, and long highway stretches with confidence. For most drivers around Bowdle, Mobridge, and Aberdeen, 4WD isn't a feature to weigh; it's the reason nearly every Explorer on our lot has it. Heated seats, an available heated steering wheel, and an engine block heater option cover the January mornings.
Performance, Adventure, and Luxury Trims
The Explorer ST is the performance trim: a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 horsepower, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and paddle shifters. The Explorer Tremor, added for 2026, is the off-road build: 4WD only, all-terrain tires, a TORSEN limited-slip rear axle, underbody protection, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, with the V6 available. The Platinum is the luxury trim with BlueCruise included, and for 2027 it gets the V6 too. Active and ST-Line cover everyday family duty on the 300-hp 2.3L EcoBoost.
Start With a Model Year Buyers Guide
For trim-by-trim breakdowns, engine choices, towing, interior, technology, and pricing, start with the guide for the model year you're shopping. Both are on the lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Ford Explorer model year is on the lot at Beadle Ford right now?
Both. 2026 Explorers are on the lot in several trims, and the first 2027 Explorer has arrived with more on the way. Search current Explorer inventory, or read the 2026 and 2027 buyers guides to compare the two years.
Is the Ford Explorer a good SUV for families?
Yes. Three rows for six or seven, flexible second-row seating, up to 85.3 cu ft of cargo, standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ driver assistance, and 4WD make it a practical family SUV for everyday use and long-distance travel.
Does the Ford Explorer come with four-wheel drive?
Intelligent 4WD is available on every Explorer trim and standard on the Tremor. Most Explorers at Beadle Ford are 4WD for year-round confidence on snow, gravel, and mixed-surface roads.
How much can a Ford Explorer tow?
Up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, on every trim and with either engine. A Class III Trailer Tow Package is standard, which covers a fishing boat, a single-axle camper, or a snowmobile trailer.
What is the difference between the Ford Explorer and the Ford Expedition?
The Explorer is the mid-size three-row SUV (up to 7 seats, 5,000 lbs of towing); the Expedition is full-size (up to 8 seats, up to 9,600 lbs of towing, and much more third-row and cargo room). If you need three usable rows but a full-size SUV is more vehicle than you want to park, the Explorer is the right size. Compare the Expedition.
Where can I buy a Ford Explorer near Bowdle, South Dakota?
Beadle Ford in Bowdle, SD serves buyers from Bowdle, Selby, Mobridge, Aberdeen, Pierre, and surrounding communities. Search inventory above, get pre-approved, or contact our team.