TL;DR
- Explorer is the easier daily family SUV and can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Expedition offers 36.5 inches of third-row legroom and up to 9,600 lbs of towing in properly equipped 4x4 form.
- Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond currently has 2026 Explorer and Expedition inventory, while Ford has already launched the 2027 model-year information for both SUVs.
Table of Contents
Seating, Legroom & Cargo Capacity
The 2027 Explorer is the easier midsize choice for daily school, sports, and commuting. The 2027 Expedition is much larger and gives third-row passengers more adult-friendly room.
| Measurement | 2027 Explorer | 2027 Expedition / MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Up to 7 | Up to 8 |
| Third-row legroom | 32.2 in | 36.5 in |
| Cargo behind third row | 16.3 cu. ft. | 21.6 cu. ft.; MAX 36.1 cu. ft. |
| Max cargo behind first row | 85.8 cu. ft. | 108.5 cu. ft.; MAX 123.1 cu. ft. |
| Max towing | Up to 5,000 lbs | Expedition 4x4 up to 9,600 lbs; MAX 4x4 up to 9,000 lbs |
The Expedition is the clear choice if adults regularly ride in the third row or you need substantial luggage space with all seats occupied.
Engine Performance & Trailer Capability
The Explorer lineup uses a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder on most trims and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on ST. The 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
The 2027 Expedition uses a 3.5L EcoBoost V6. Ford lists 400 hp and 480 lb-ft on most trims, with a 440-hp / 510-lb-ft high-output version on select configurations. Properly equipped Expedition 4x4 models can reach 9,600 lbs of maximum trailer weight.
Family-Focused Driver Assistance
Both SUVs offer Ford driver-assist systems, LATCH child-seat provisions, available BlueCruise on supported configurations, and modern camera/parking technology. Exact features vary by trim.
For towing, the Expedition can add integrated trailering technologies such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Pro Trailer Hitch Assist on supported configurations.
Shop Today Without Mixing Model Years
Ford has launched the 2027 Explorer and 2027 Expedition, while Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond currently shows 2026 examples in live inventory. Use the model pages to see which model year and trim is actually available when you shop.
Browse new Explorer inventory and new Expedition inventory.
Quick Answers Before You Visit
Can adults use the third row in a 2027 Ford Explorer?
Yes, but with 32.2 inches of third-row legroom it is better suited to shorter trips or smaller passengers than the Expedition, which offers 36.5 inches.
How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow?
When properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs.
How much can the 2027 Ford Expedition tow?
The 2027 Expedition 4x4 can tow up to 9,600 lbs when properly equipped. Expedition MAX 4x4 is rated up to 9,000 lbs.
Does Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond have family SUVs in stock now?
Yes. Recent live inventory shows 2026 Explorer and 2026 Expedition examples at the Edmond location. Exact trim and color availability changes daily.
Compare Explorer and Expedition in person
Bring the family, car seats, and the gear you normally carry. Our team can help you compare real-world access, cargo loading, and the exact equipment on current vehicles.
Visit us at 600 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73114 or call (405) 475-9000.