explorer

Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Is Turning Heads Near Salinas

The 2027 Ford Explorer brings three-row midsize SUV versatility, available 385-horsepower V6 performance, and updated cabin technology to Central Coast drivers. At Watsonville Ford, we help shoppers near Salinas compare trims, powertrains, and seating configurations tailored to daily highway commutes and weekend family travel. Our showroom stays open seven days a week with straightforward pricing and factory-trained support so you can evaluate this SUV on your schedule.

Open Today! Sales: 10am-7pm

View Inventory

What Buyers Get With the 2027 Ford Explorer

exterior

Turbocharged EcoBoost Power and Four-Wheel Drive Control

Drivers navigating Highway 101 toward Salinas or climbing winding coastal grades benefit from two available turbocharged EcoBoost engines paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Standard rear-wheel drive and available Intelligent 4WD with the Terrain Management System and six selectable drive modes adjust traction across wet pavement and uneven backroads.

  • Available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 producing 385 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque
  • Standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
  • Up to 5,000 pounds of maximum trailering capacity with Trailer Sway Control
interior

Three-Row Cabin Space and Flexible Cargo Volume

Inside, the 2027 Explorer accommodates six or seven passengers depending on whether you select standard second-row captain’s chairs with E-Z Entry or the available second-row bench seat. Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control and available heated first- and second-row seats keep passengers comfortable between Gilroy and the Monterey Bay coast, while folding rear rows expand storage.

  • 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 85.3 cubic feet maximum
  • Available PowerFold third-row seats and ActiveX seating with Miko suede inserts
  • Standard 10-way power driver seat and 8-way power front passenger seat
dashboard

Ford Digital Experience and Driver Assistance

Longer commutes through Santa Cruz County feel easier with the Ford Digital Experience centered on a 13.2-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features and an available 360-degree camera help with lane positioning and tight parking lots, while available BlueCruise enables hands-free highway driving.

  • 13.2-inch center display with Google Assistant voice control and Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Available 980W B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 14 speakers
  • Standard Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping System, and Reverse Brake Assist
Ask a Question Form Opened

Ask a Question

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Contact Us Form Opened

Contact Us

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.


A Look at What Ford Changed for the 2027 Explorer

For the 2027 model year, Ford refreshed the Explorer lineup with new exterior paint choices, expanded package availability, and updated roof customization options across select trims. Buyers can now personalize appearance and capability with new color finishes while pairing high-output V6 performance with luxury or sport-tuned configurations.

  • Two new exterior colors, Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
  • Available Platinum Ultimate Package pairing the 3.0L V6 with leather seating and 21-inch wheels
  • Available Slick Roof Conversion option on ST and ST-Line models to delete roof rails
  • Expanded BlueCruise hands-free highway driving availability across ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum, and ST

What Makes the 2027 Ford Explorer a Practical Choice Near Salinas

From morning school drop-offs in Salinas to weekend beach trips near Santa Cruz and inland drives through Gilroy, this midsize SUV adapts to changing Central Coast conditions. Standard AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags across all three rows, and a 20.2-gallon fuel tank support extended family travel with fewer stops and steady highway manners.

What Watsonville Ford Offers Salinas-Area Ford Shoppers

At Watsonville Ford, located at 550 Auto Center Drive in Watsonville, we focus on long-term relationships rather than quick sales. You can browse our new Ford inventory online, check current new vehicle specials, or apply for financing from home before visiting our showroom. After delivery, our certified Ford service center employs factory-trained technicians using genuine OEM parts for routine maintenance and drivetrain repairs, and you can get to know our dealership before stopping by seven days a week.

Get Directions

550 Auto Center Drive, Watsonville, CA, 95076
Watsonville Ford 36.918772, -121.767170.