*Not actual model
Brown Motors - Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum™ the Right Luxury Family SUV for Charlevoix, MI?
When luxury, technology, and everyday versatility come together the right way, family life feels simpler. That is the precise mission of the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum™, a trim designed to elevate comfort without losing the flexibility that makes Explorer such a smart choice for northern Michigan driving. If you shuttle between school activities, hockey practice, and lakeshore getaways, Platinum’s blend of premium seating, advanced driver assistance, and flexible cargo space creates a welcoming space for every mile.
Under the hood, Platinum features a 2.3L EcoBoost® engine, tuned for confident merging and smooth passing power. Available Intelligent 4WD and Selectable drive modes help you stay poised on snow-packed streets or wet spring roads, while chassis tuning keeps the ride composed over broken pavement. The cabin is the star, though, with heated, ventilated, massaging front-row seats with leather inserts that can turn a long drive into genuine downtime. Set the mood with ambient lighting, open up the available panoramic fixed glass roof with power sunshade, and enjoy the clarity of premium audio while the Ford Digital Experience brings maps, media, and voice assistance front and center.
Highway travel is where Platinum truly differentiates itself. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving helps manage acceleration, braking, and steering on compatible stretches, allowing you to relax while maintaining attention to the road. The result is a more serene commute or a calmer family road trip. Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ with Adaptive Cruise Control further supports your routine, easing the stress of stop-and-go traffic and long-distance drives. With a 5,000-lb towing capacity when properly equipped, taking a small boat or camper along for a long weekend is effortlessly part of the plan.
Inside, Platinum’s thoughtful storage, second-row comfort, and easy-folding rear seating make kid drop-offs and cargo swaps fast. Up to seven-passenger seating means the grandparents can join for a Sunday brunch, and the expansive cargo area swallows strollers, coolers, or luggage without a hassle. The 360-Degree Camera helps with parking in crowded lots, while connected navigation keeps you on time when detours pop up on scenic routes.
If you are deciding which luxury SUV best fits life along the bay, consider how Platinum treats your daily moments. From the feel of the steering wheel to the quietness of the cabin at speed, it is a trim tuned for comfort that lasts beyond the first drive. The details—like refined stitching, an intuitive infotainment layout, and robust driver assistance—make a measurable difference during those busy weeks that stretch from work to weekend.
- Hands-free highway confidence: BlueCruise helps manage acceleration, braking, and steering on compatible highways.
- All-season poise: Available Intelligent 4WD and Selectable drive modes adapt to rain, slush, and snow.
- Wellness on the move: Heated, ventilated, massaging front-row seats with leather inserts support longer drives.
- Flexible space: Room for up to seven plus easy-folding rows for big cargo days.
- Parking support: A 360-Degree Camera makes tight maneuvers feel straightforward.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does BlueCruise work on the Platinum™ trim?
BlueCruise is a hands-free highway driving assistance feature that helps with acceleration, braking, and steering on compatible highways while you keep your eyes on the road. It is designed to reduce fatigue on longer drives and ease stress in heavy traffic.
Can the Platinum™ handle winter driving around the bay?
Yes. Available Intelligent 4WD and Selectable drive modes help manage traction on snow-packed streets and icy mornings, while driver-assist features support awareness and confidence in challenging conditions.
Is the Platinum™ still practical for family errands?
Absolutely. With seating for up to seven, a power liftgate, and a versatile cargo area, Platinum is built to handle school runs, grocery trips, and road trips with equal ease.
When you are ready to explore a luxury SUV that does not compromise on utility, the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum™ deserves a close look. Brown Motors will help you assess must-have features, from BlueCruise to interior upgrades, and can suggest accessories that fit your routine—serving Cheboygan, Petoskey, and Charlevoix with personal guidance from product specialists who live these roads every day.