Best Ford SUVs for Road Trips Across the Treasure Coast

The coastal roads around Stuart demand a vehicle that can handle both the tight turns of the historic downtown district and the high-speed stretches of the causeway. Finding the right balance between passenger comfort, cargo flexibility, and fuel efficiency is the first step toward a successful road trip. We often see shoppers who need an SUV capable of hauling fishing gear to the waterfront marinas one day and commuting toward the urban centers the next.

The current lineup offers a range of sizes and capabilities to meet these specific needs. For those who prioritize maximum interior room, a three-row model provides the necessary volume for large families and their luggage. Conversely, smaller crossovers are ideal for drivers who want a more agile footprint and higher fuel economy for frequent highway trips. Our team at Essential Ford of Stuart focuses on matching these mechanical capabilities to your specific travel patterns, ensuring the vehicle you choose enhances every mile of your journey.

If you are ready to see these models in person, our showroom address is conveniently located for local drivers. You can also give us a quick call to discuss which trims are currently available for a test drive.

Evaluating the Spacious 2026 Ford Explorer for Family Road Trips

The 2026 Explorer provides about 153 cubic feet of passenger volume, making it the primary choice for families who need three rows of seating. This interior space allows for 6 or 7 passengers to travel comfortably, depending on whether you choose the second-row captain’s chairs or the 60/40 split-folding bench seat. For long-distance travel, this volume is critical for maintaining passenger comfort and providing enough room for coolers, beach gear, and suitcases without crowding the cabin.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specifications across trim levels

Standard across all trims:

Comfort & Seating Enhancements

Comfort & Seating Enhancements — available options with MSRP pricing

Performance in the 2026 Explorer is driven by a standard 2.3L I4 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is paired with an Automatic transmission and 4WD, providing a confident feel when merging onto high-speed routes or navigating seasonal rain. For those seeking even more power, the Platinum and ST trims offer a 3.0L V6 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. These higher output engines are particularly useful if you plan to tow a small boat or a camper on your weekend excursions.

The ST-LINE and Active trims are EPA-rated at 20 city / 27 hwy, offering a respectable balance of capability and efficiency for a vehicle of this size. If you are considering a pre-owned model instead, you can browse our used inventory to compare different model years and feature sets.

• Active: Features the 2.3L I4 engine and standard 4WD.
• ST-LINE: Adds sportier styling cues while maintaining the 20 city / 27 hwy rating.
• Platinum: Focuses on luxury with leather-trimmed seating and the available 3.0L V6.
• Tremor: A new addition for 2026 designed for improved off-road performance.

Analyzing the Fuel-Efficient 2026 Ford Escape for Long Highway Drives

Fuel efficiency becomes the deciding factor for drivers who frequently travel between the suburban neighborhoods of Port St. Lucie and the business hubs further south. The 2026 Escape excels in this environment, particularly when equipped with the available hybrid powertrain. The Escape Hybrid is rated at 42 city / 36 hwy, which significantly reduces the frequency of fuel stops during a long road trip. Even the standard 1.5L I3 engine provides a competitive 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive configurations.

Fuel Economy

EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings

Standard across all trims: Fuel Type Unleaded

Best combined fuel economy: Active at 24 mpg

While the Escape is more compact than the Explorer, it still offers about 104 cubic feet of passenger space and up to about 38 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row. This makes it an excellent choice for couples or small families who do not require a third row but still want the versatility of an SUV. The ST-Line Select trim, equipped with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivers 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of acceleration for passing on the interstate.

Before you decide on a new model, it is helpful to value your trade-in online to see how much equity you can apply toward your next purchase. The 2026 Escape also features the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control and a Lane-Keeping System to help manage driver fatigue during extended highway stints.

Comparing the Adventurous Bronco Sport and Escape for Beach and Trail Access

Accessing the mangrove-lined waterways and sandy trails along the coast requires more than just standard ground clearance. The Bronco Sport is engineered for these specific scenarios, offering a more rugged suspension and specialized drive modes that the pavement-oriented Escape lacks. While both vehicles share a compact footprint, the Bronco Sport is the better fit for those who plan to spend their weekends at the beach or exploring the local state parks.

The Escape is designed for maximum efficiency and a smooth, quiet ride on paved surfaces. It is the ideal tool for the daily commute or a straight shot up the turnpike. However, if your road trips involve unpaved paths or loose sand, the Bronco Sport provides the mechanical grip and durable interior materials needed for an active lifestyle. You can learn about our dealership and our commitment to helping local drivers find the specific vehicle that matches their outdoor hobbies.

• Bronco Sport: Best for beach access, light trails, and a rugged aesthetic.
• Escape: Best for highway fuel economy, urban maneuverability, and a smooth ride.
• Cargo Space: Both offer about 33 to 38 cubic feet of storage, enough for several sets of golf clubs or beach chairs.

Unlocking Comfort, Technology, and Safety Features for I-95 Commutes

Highway driving on I-95 introduces specific stressors that are best managed by advanced driver-assist technologies. The 2026 Explorer and Escape both offer Ford BlueCruise, which allows for hands-free highway driving on pre-qualified sections of road. For 2026, this system includes an Automatic Lane Change feature, making it easier to navigate through slower traffic without manual intervention. These technologies are designed to make long-distance travel feel less taxing for the driver.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety ratings and driver assistance systems

Standard across all trims: IIHS awards for the 2026 Ford Explorer (4-door SUV) align with 2026 Top Safety Pick+ criteria: Good ratings in small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side; Acceptable/Good headlights (standard availability); Good pedestrian front crash prevention (standard availability); and Acceptable/Good vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention 2.0 (standard availability)

Inside the cabin, comfort features like heated and ventilated front seats and a Panoramic Vista Roof enhance the atmosphere for all passengers. The Platinum trim of the Explorer even includes premium leather seating and a high-end audio system to create a more upscale environment. To see how these features fit into your budget, you can view current lease specials that often include these high-tech trims.

Safety remains a top priority for road-trippers. The 2026 Explorer has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, thanks to its performance in crash tests and the inclusion of Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. Standard features like Blind Spot Information System and Cross-Traffic Alert provide an extra layer of awareness when navigating crowded parking lots or changing lanes at highway speeds.

Quick Answers for Treasure Coast Road-Trippers

Q: What is the maximum towing capacity for the 2026 Explorer?
A: When properly equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine and the factory tow package, the Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs. This is sufficient for most mid-sized boats or travel trailers used for local weekend trips.

Q: Does the 2026 Escape Hybrid require a plug-in charger?
A: The standard Escape Hybrid uses a self-charging system that captures energy during braking, so it does not require a plug. However, the Escape PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid) can be charged via a 120V or 240V outlet to provide about 37 miles of all-electric range.

Q: Which SUV has the most advanced hands-free driving tech?
A: Both the 2026 Explorer and the Escape offer Ford BlueCruise. This system allows for hands-free operation on more than 130,000 miles of North American highways, including many stretches of I-95.

Q: Is 4WD necessary for driving in Florida?
A: While Florida is flat, the 4WD system in the Explorer and the AWD in the Escape provide significantly better traction on wet roads during heavy summer rain. It also provides the grip needed for driving on sand or grass at local parks.

Q: What documents should I bring to apply for financing?
A: To speed up the process, bring a current driver’s license, proof of insurance, your two most recent pay stubs, and the title for any vehicle you plan to trade in. Having these ready helps our finance team secure your approval faster.