2027 Ford Explorer: New Trims and Packages Explained
The Ford Explorer is a great five-door SUV for families that need a dependable car that can keep them safe and comfortable as a daily driver. In this review of the 2027 Ford Explorer changes, we’ll be reviewing the Explorer ST Sinister package, Platinum Ultimate package, and the Lux Leather package as we unveil all of the latest and greatest exciting trims on offer in the 2027 model year.
Key Takeaways:
- The ST Sinister package adds gloss-black wheels, darker exterior details, exclusive badging, and distinctive interior accent lighting.
- Platinum Ultimate combines the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with premium leather, unique wheels, and quad exhaust outlets.
- The lineup includes Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST trims with four-cylinder or available V6 performance.
What’s new for the 2027 Ford Explorer?
The 2027 Ford Explorer builds on its recent redesign with several new appearance, luxury, and technology options rather than another major mechanical overhaul. Two new exterior colors, Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, join the palette, while Ford also adds a new ST Sinister Package, an upgraded Platinum Ultimate Package, and expanded package availability for Tremor models.
Ford Security Package availability is also broadened across the lineup, and Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST models can now be ordered with a Slick Roof Conversion that removes the standard roof rails.
The basic powertrain lineup remains familiar. Most Explorer trims use a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, while the 400-horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 continues in the ST and is available on Tremor and Platinum models.
That means the biggest 2027 changes are aimed less at outright performance and more at giving buyers additional ways to personalize the Explorer, whether they want a darker ST, a more luxurious Platinum, or a better-equipped Tremor.
What comes with the Explorer ST Sinister package?
The 2027 Ford Explorer ST Sinister Package is a new appearance package designed to give the performance-oriented ST a darker, more aggressive look. It adds 21-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels, 275/45R21 all-season tires, exclusive amber daytime running lights, and red ST badges outlined in black. Ford describes the package as enthusiast-inspired, while the mechanical specifications of the ST itself remain unchanged.
Underneath the visual changes, the Explorer ST still uses the 400-horsepower, 415-pound-foot 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive.
The Sinister Package therefore does not make the ST quicker or more powerful, but it does give buyers a factory blackout treatment without forcing them to assemble the look piecemeal. Car and Driver lists the package at $1,695, which keeps it relatively modest by modern appearance-package standards, a category not exactly famous for restraint.
| Explorer Choice | Core Focus | Key Equipment / Upgrade | Best Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active | Everyday value | Core Explorer technology, family features, and turbo four-cylinder power | Buyers prioritizing practicality and price |
| ST-Line | Sporty styling | Performance-inspired appearance without requiring the full ST powertrain | Drivers wanting the ST look for less |
| Tremor | Adventure capability | Off-road-oriented hardware and rugged styling | Families expecting trails, poor roads, or outdoor use |
| Platinum Ultimate | Maximum luxury | Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6, premium leather, unique wheels, and quad exhaust outlets | Buyers wanting luxury with stronger available performance |
| ST | Performance | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and performance-oriented chassis tuning | Drivers prioritizing power and handling |
| ST Sinister Package | Dark performance styling | Gloss-black wheels, darker exterior details, exclusive badging, and unique ambient lighting | ST buyers wanting a more aggressive factory appearance |
| Lux Leather Package | Interior upgrade | Upgraded leather-focused cabin treatment | Buyers who want a more premium interior without making performance |
What does the Platinum Ultimate package add?
The 2027 Ford Explorer Platinum Ultimate Package turns the luxury-focused Platinum into a considerably more powerful and upscale three-row SUV. Most importantly, it replaces the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with the 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, increasing output to 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
The package also adds unique 21-inch wheels, chrome-tipped quad exhaust outlets, and premium leather-trimmed seating surfaces, giving the Platinum much of the ST’s power without the same overt performance styling.
Ford also includes the Lux Leather Package as part of the Platinum Ultimate setup. That brings upgraded leather trim with Platinum seat badging, quilting, and additional stitching on the seats and door panels.
Combined with the Platinum’s available 14-speaker, 980-watt B&O sound system and other comfort-focused equipment, the Ultimate Package is aimed at buyers who want the Explorer’s strongest available engine without abandoning the softer, more premium character of the Platinum trim.
Which Trim Level of the 2027 Ford Explorer Should I Purchase?
Overall, the wide set of trims on offer from the Explorer makes for an interesting prospect for family drivers in 2027. If you’re interested in one of the many great editions of the Explorer that is offered, Banner Ford of Monroe is sure to carry plenty of diverse models in the Explorer lineup, so make sure to shop with us if you’re looking to explore the Explorer for yourself!
