2027 Ford Explorer Active in Fayetteville, AR
A Three-Row SUV, and What Its 4WD Means on Ice
The 2027 Ford Explorer Active is the starting point of the Explorer lineup: three rows, a 300-hp turbocharged engine, and several cold-weather features as standard. One thing to know up front: the Active is rear-wheel drive unless you choose the available Intelligent 4WD, which is Ford's name for the Explorer's all-wheel-drive-style system. Here's what it includes and how it handles Fayetteville's hills when the roads ice over.
View Explorer Inventory Schedule a Test Drive
2027 Ford Explorer Active Highlights
Performance & Capability
The Active uses a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder with a 10-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard and Intelligent 4WD is available.
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 300 hp
- Available Intelligent 4WD with Hill Descent Control; six selectable drive modes through the Terrain Management System
- Class III Trailer Tow Package and Trailer Sway Control standard, with up to 5,000 lbs of towing when properly equipped
- 18-inch wheels with all-season tires
Interior & Comfort
The Active seats six with standard second-row captain's chairs, or seven with the available bench. Several cold-weather features come standard.
- Heated front seats, heated side mirrors and tri-zone automatic climate control are standard
- Remote start, a heated steering wheel and an engine block heater are available
- 16.3 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the third row and 85.8 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded; power liftgate standard
Technology & Safety
A 13.2-inch center display and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ are standard on the Active.
- 13.2-inch center display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 12.3-inch digital cluster
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ driver-assist features, rear parking sensors and a Lane-Keeping System
- Eight USB ports across all three rows
Is the 2027 Ford Explorer Active Right for You?
The Explorer Active suits families who need a third row and real towing ability, and who want winter comfort features without stepping up to a higher trim.
Is the Explorer AWD Good on Ice?
With the available Intelligent 4WD, the Explorer sends power to the wheels with the most grip automatically, and the Terrain Management System adjusts throttle and traction control for slick conditions. That helps on Fayetteville's steep streets and driveways, but the standard tires are all-season, and no drivetrain shortens stopping distances on glare ice. If you'll drive often in freezing weather, choose a 4WD Explorer and consider dedicated winter tires. A rear-wheel-drive Explorer can handle light winter weather, but 4WD is the better choice for our hills.
Towing & Weekend Trips
A Class III trailer hitch and Trailer Sway Control come standard, and a properly equipped Active can tow up to 5,000 lbs. That covers most small campers and boats headed to Beaver Lake or Withrow Springs.
Family Life & Holiday Travel
Second-row captain's chairs make it easy to reach the third row, heated front seats are standard, and tri-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable on long holiday drives on I-49 and I-40.
Comparing the Active with the ST-Line, Platinum or Tremor? Ask our team and we'll walk you through the differences.
Why Buy Your Explorer from Lewis Ford Sales
Lewis Automotive Group has served Northwest Arkansas since 1946. Every new vehicle includes the Lewis Guarantee.
- Locally owned, with Ford stores in Fayetteville and Springdale
- Large selection of new and pre-owned inventory
- Factory-trained service team for the life of your vehicle
- Ford parts and service in Fayetteville for maintenance, tires and accessories
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
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Active come with AWD?
Rear-wheel drive is standard. Ford's Intelligent 4WD, an automatic system that works like all-wheel drive, is available and adds Hill Descent Control.
Is the Ford Explorer good on ice?
With Intelligent 4WD it has good traction for icy hills, and heated seats and mirrors are standard. Like any vehicle, it still needs reduced speed on ice, and winter tires add grip.
What engine does the Explorer Active have?
A 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder rated at 300 hp, paired with a 10-speed automatic.
How many people does the Explorer Active seat?
Six with the standard second-row captain's chairs, or seven with the available second-row bench.
Where can I buy a 2027 Ford Explorer Active near Fayetteville, AR?
Lewis Ford Sales in Fayetteville has new Explorer inventory. 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 Lewis Ford Sales at 2479 N. Shiloh Dr. in Fayetteville to compare trims and take a test drive. Call Sales at (888) 314-4824.