Your Guide to the 2026 Ford SUV Lineup for Lewisville Drivers

Author: Five Star Ford of Lewisville Team

Navigating the crowded SUV market to find a vehicle that fits your life can feel like a daunting task. You need something dependable for the daily commute on I-35E, versatile enough for a weekend trip to Lewisville Lake, and safe enough to give you peace of mind during a Texas thunderstorm. At Five Star Ford of Lewisville, we have a deep understanding of what North Texas drivers need because we’re part of this community. With decades of experience serving the Lewisville, Denton, and Dallas areas, we are uniquely qualified to guide you through the 2026 Ford SUV lineup and help you find the perfect vehicle for your journey.

Key Takeaways (TL;DR)

• Tailored for Texas: Ford SUVs are engineered with features like available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and robust cooling systems, making them well-suited for North Texas’s unpredictable weather and hot summers.
• Diverse Options: The 2026 lineup ranges from the city-friendly Escape, perfect for navigating Frisco’s busy streets, to the spacious Expedition, designed for family adventures to Grapevine Mills.
• Off-Road Prowess: Models like the Bronco and Bronco Sport offer genuine off-road capability, ideal for exploring the trails and rugged terrain found outside the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
• Advanced Safety Comes Standard: Every 2026 Ford SUV is equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of driver-assist technologies that enhance safety on congested highways like the Sam Rayburn Tollway.
• Future-Focused Technology: With large touchscreens, seamless smartphone integration via SYNC®, and available BlueCruise hands-free driving, Ford SUVs keep you connected and comfortable.
• Lasting Investment: Ford vehicles are known for their durability and strong resale value, a fact supported by organizations like Kelley Blue Book, ensuring your investment is a smart one.

What is the history of Ford’s innovation in SUVs?

Ford’s journey into the world of sport utility vehicles began long before the term “SUV” became a household name. The story starts with the original Ford Bronco, launched in 1966 as a rugged, go-anywhere vehicle designed for adventure. This pioneering spirit laid the groundwork for decades of innovation. In the 1990s, the Ford Explorer redefined the family vehicle, combining the utility of a truck with the comfort of a passenger car and rocketing to the top of sales charts. This move effectively created the modern SUV market. As drivers’ needs evolved, Ford continued to innovate with models like the Expedition, offering three-row seating for large families, and the Escape, one of the first compact crossovers to offer a hybrid powertrain. Today, the 2026 lineup continues this legacy, blending iconic durability with cutting-edge technology and efficiency.

Why do so many North Texas drivers choose Ford SUVs?

Drivers across Lewisville, Dallas, and the surrounding communities choose Ford SUVs for their proven combination of toughness, innovation, and adaptability to the local environment. Ford’s reputation for building durable vehicles is not just a slogan; it’s a core principle that resonates with Texans who need a vehicle that can handle everything from construction zones on the Dallas North Tollway to sudden downpours. According to reputable sources like Edmunds, Ford vehicles consistently receive high marks for performance and utility. The availability of advanced features like Ford Co-Pilot360™ as standard equipment provides an extra layer of confidence for navigating the often-chaotic traffic of the DFW metroplex. This commitment to safety, combined with a wide range of models and powertrains, ensures there is a Ford SUV perfectly matched to the diverse lifestyles of North Texas families.

How does Ford ensure its SUVs are so durable?

Ford’s reputation for durability is built upon a foundation of rigorous engineering and relentless testing, a philosophy encapsulated in the “Built Ford Tough” ethos. This process involves subjecting vehicles to extreme conditions that simulate a lifetime of the harshest use. SUVs are tested in punishing environments, from scorching desert heat that mimics a Texas August to freezing arctic cold. The frames, powertrains, and suspension components are designed to withstand the daily grind of uneven roads and the stress of towing. Furthermore, Ford’s advanced manufacturing processes and global quality control standards ensure that every vehicle leaving the assembly line meets strict criteria for longevity. This commitment to over-engineering is why you see so many older Ford Explorers and Expeditions still reliably serving families across Denton and Frisco.

What is Ford Co-Pilot360™ Technology?

Ford Co-Pilot360™ is a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features designed to increase your awareness and confidence on the road. This intelligent safety technology is standard on all 2026 Ford SUVs and is particularly useful for navigating the busy highways and streets around Lewisville. Key features include:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians in your path and automatically apply the brakes if you don’t react in time.
• BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert: It watches your blind spots for other vehicles and alerts you, which is invaluable when changing lanes on I-35E. Cross-Traffic Alert warns you of traffic approaching from the sides as you back out of a parking space at Music City Mall.
• Lane-Keeping System: This feature helps you stay centered in your lane by providing gentle steering assistance if it detects you drifting unintentionally.
• Rear View Camera: Provides a clear view of what’s behind you, making parking and reversing safer and easier.
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps: These automatically switch between high and low beams, providing optimal visibility at night without dazzling oncoming drivers.

For more information on these advanced systems, visit the official Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology page.

How does Ford prioritize fuel efficiency in its SUVs?

Ford addresses the demand for fuel efficiency through a multi-faceted approach that includes advanced engine technology, hybrid powertrains, and aerodynamic designs. The EcoBoost® engine family, for instance, uses turbocharging and direct injection to deliver robust power without the fuel consumption of a larger engine—a perfect balance for accelerating onto the George Bush Turnpike. Furthermore, Ford offers a growing number of hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options across its SUV lineup. The 2026 Escape Hybrid and Escape PHEV are prime examples, offering exceptional mileage that helps Lewisville commuters save money at the pump. Even larger SUVs like the Explorer are available with a hybrid powertrain that balances V6-like performance with improved efficiency. This focus on “power of choice” allows drivers to select a vehicle that meets their performance needs and their desire for a lower environmental footprint.

Which Ford SUV maintains its value the best?

The Ford Bronco consistently leads the pack in retaining its value, often earning top accolades from industry authorities like Kelley Blue Book for its impressive resale performance. Its iconic design, exceptional off-road capabilities, and high consumer demand make it a sought-after vehicle in the pre-owned market. This means that when it’s time to trade in or sell, Bronco owners can expect to recoup a significant portion of their initial investment. Close behind, the Ford Explorer and Expedition also demonstrate strong value retention, thanks to their reputation for reliability, family-friendly utility, and durable construction. For North Texas buyers, choosing one of these models is not just a practical decision for today, but a financially sound one for the future.

What are the standout technology features in 2026 Ford SUVs?

Ford SUVs are loaded with smart technology designed to make every drive more connected, entertaining, and convenient. Whether you’re commuting to Dallas or heading out for a weekend adventure, these features are designed to integrate seamlessly into your life.

• SYNC® Infotainment Systems: The latest generation, often SYNC® 4 or 4A, features large, intuitive touchscreens (up to 15.5 inches) with conversational voice recognition, cloud-connected navigation, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.
• FordPass® Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot: This feature turns your SUV into a mobile hotspot, allowing you and your passengers to connect multiple devices to the internet—perfect for keeping kids entertained on long drives. It also enables remote features like starting, locking, and locating your vehicle through the FordPass® app.
• B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen: Available on many models, this premium audio system delivers a rich, immersive listening experience with strategically placed speakers and a powerful subwoofer, turning your cabin into a concert hall.
• Ford BlueCruise: This available technology allows for true hands-free highway driving on prequalified sections of divided highways, known as Hands-Free Blue Zones. It manages steering, acceleration, and braking, reducing driver fatigue on long trips along I-35 or I-20.
• Pro Trailer Backup Assist™: Available on models like the Expedition, this feature makes reversing a trailer as easy as turning a knob. It simplifies one of the most stressful parts of towing, whether you’re launching a boat at Lewisville Lake or parking a camper.
• 360-Degree Camera with Split-View Display: This system uses four cameras to create a bird’s-eye view of the area around your vehicle, making it incredibly easy to navigate tight parking spots at Stonebriar Centre or maneuver on a narrow trail.

The 2026 Ford SUV Lineup

From compact and nimble crossovers to full-size family haulers, the 2026 Ford SUV lineup offers a model for every North Texas driver. Here’s a detailed look at each one and who it’s best for.

Ford Escape

The Ford Escape is a practical and adaptable compact SUV, perfect for urban lifestyles and everyday driving. With its sleek appearance, spacious interior, and a range of powertrain options—such as fuel-saving hybrids—it’s an excellent choice for singles, couples, or small families.

• Active™: This model comes equipped with impressive features such as a Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system, an expansive 8-inch capacitive touchscreen display, and the advanced Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite of technologies.
• ST-Line: Show off a sportier look with unique ST-Line badging, a black mesh grille, and a rear spoiler. This model offers a more dynamic style, ensuring you’ll make a statement wherever you go.
• ST-Line Select:Engineered for driving enthusiasts, the ST-Line Select combines athletic aesthetics with sophisticated functionalities. It delivers an exhilarating ride through its enhanced performance, distinctive design cues, and state-of-the-art tech, making it a true standout.
• ST Line Elite:The ST-Line Elite delivers a top-tier driving experience, featuring cutting-edge interior safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a 360-degree camera system to improve situational awareness. It also boasts a roomy cabin designed with versatility in mind.
• Platinum: Elevate your driving experience with the premium Escape, which includes advanced features like a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, optional ActiveX™ trimmed seating, and a comprehensive 360-Degree Camera system.
• Plug-in Hybrid: This model offers an all-electric driving mode designed for short distances to optimize efficiency. You can complete your local errands, like trips around town, entirely on electric power, eliminating gasoline consumption and improving air quality in your community.

Ford Bronco Sport

The Ford Bronco Sport combines iconic Bronco design with the versatility of a compact SUV. Perfect for adventurers in Lewisville, TX, it features standard 4×4 capability and G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Terrain), ready to take on everything from the streets of Old Town Lewisville to the rugged trails at Lewisville Lake.

• Big Bend®: An ideal choice for adventure, featuring a low-maintenance interior, a safari-inspired roof, and five built-in G.O.A.T. Modes™ for versatile performance.
• Heritage: It features a vintage aesthetic, highlighted by a distinctive white roof and a white grille adorned with red “FORD” lettering. The interior pays homage to the classic Bronco with its plaid cloth seats.
• Free Wheeling™: A vibrant, retro-themed trim with sunset-colored graphics, 17-inch wheels with red accents, and a colorful interior that brings a 1970s vibe to modern adventures.
• Outer Banks®: Elevate your ride with luxurious details such as supple leather-trimmed front seats, a warm heated steering wheel, and chic 18-inch machine-faced aluminum wheels for an added layer of sophistication.
• Badlands®: As the most adept Bronco Sport model, this vehicle features a sophisticated 4×4 system with a twin-clutch rear-drive unit, a suspension tuned for off-road performance, and two extra G.O.A.T. Modes™ designed for tackling extreme conditions.

Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco is the ultimate SUV for adventure seekers in Lewisville, TX. Built with a rugged, body-on-frame design, it’s perfect for exploring the trails and backroads of Texas. Featuring removable doors and roof, along with advanced off-road capabilities, the Bronco is designed for those ready to tackle any challenge. Whether you prefer the two-door or four-door option, it offers flexibility to suit your lifestyle and crew, making it the perfect companion for Texas-sized adventures.

• Base: For those who value simplicity and customization, the entry-level Bronco offers core off-road prowess without the premium price, making it an ideal starting point for enthusiasts.
• Big Bend®: Built for adventure, featuring a 4×4 system, 32-inch all-terrain tires, and a trail-ready terrain management setup.
• Outer Banks®: This version of the Bronco offers a touch of elegance with its distinctive LED lighting and optional leather-trimmed seats, ensuring you ride in comfort whether you’re on the road or exploring rugged terrain.
• Badlands™: Equipped with a distinctive Badlands suspension, a front stabilizer bar disconnect, and 33-inch all-terrain tires, this vehicle is engineered for serious off-road adventures.
• Herritage Edition®: The latest Bronco model pays homage to its iconic heritage by blending contemporary functionalities with classic styling. Its retro vibe is further enhanced by the availability of two-tone paint schemes.
• Stroppe Edition®: This vehicle blends the timeless charm of the vintage Bronco with cutting-edge off-road features for modern adventures.
• Raptor®: The Ford Bronco Raptor is a rugged off-road machine, featuring a high-performance engine and advanced suspension designed to tackle even the toughest landscapes.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is the ultimate three-row family SUV, offering the perfect balance of space, comfort, and performance. With seating for up to seven, a robust engine lineup, and a well-crafted interior, it’s an excellent choice for families in Lewisville, TX, who need a reliable vehicle for daily commutes, after-school activities, and weekend adventures around the Lone Star State.

• Active 100A: Experience the future of family travel with the 2026 base model, featuring an all-new interior, a vibrant 13.2-inch touchscreen, and a suite of standard amenities designed for today’s families.
• Active: This model features front seats with heating to keep you warm on cold mornings and a power liftgate that simplifies cargo access.
• ST-Line: Blends the athletic design of the Explorer ST with an eco-friendly powertrain, showcasing blacked-out exterior accents and red stitching inside for a dynamic, performance-driven vibe.
• Tremor: With its Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, this vehicle delivers superior traction and stability.
• ST: Engineered for excitement on winding canyon roads, the high-performance model boasts a 400-hp 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine, complemented by a sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes for an exhilarating ride.
• Platinum: This is the ultimate expression of Explorer luxury, featuring an exclusive grille design, supple leather-trimmed seats, an expansive twin-panel moonroof, and an immersive B\&O® Sound System.

Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that provides maximum space, power, and capability. With seating for up to eight and an extended-length MAX version, it is the ultimate choice for large families. Its standard 3.5L EcoBoost® engine delivers robust performance, while its independent rear suspension ensures a comfortable ride for all passengers.

• Active: The base model comes fully equipped with seating for eight passengers, a 12-inch touchscreen powered by the SYNC® 4 system, and the advanced Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety suite.
• Platinum: Experience opulence with leather-trimmed seating, 20-inch wheels, and the immersive B\&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen.
• Tremor: Experience the ultimate off-road adventure with the Expedition’s powerful engine, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and improved ground clearance designed for rugged exploration.
• King Ranch®: Showcases a one-of-a-kind Western-inspired luxury with Del Rio leather seating, a standout interior design, and custom badging that embodies a refined yet rugged aesthetic.

Which Ford SUVs are best for off-road adventures in Texas?

When the pavement ends, several Ford SUVs are ready to tackle the diverse Texas terrain. From dusty trails to rocky paths, these models have the hardware to get you there and back.

• Ford Bronco: This is the undisputed champion. Every Bronco is Trail Rated and built for serious off-roading.
  • Badlands™ Trim: Features a sophisticated suspension with stabilizer bar disconnect for maximum wheel articulation and advanced 4×4 systems.
  • Raptor® Trim: Takes performance to an extreme level, designed to conquer the toughest terrain at high speeds.
• Ford Bronco Sport: Don’t let its size fool you. This SUV is surprisingly capable, especially in its top trim.
  • Badlands™ Trim: Comes with an advanced 4×4 system, all-terrain tires, and additional G.O.A.T. Modes™ that make it a formidable trail machine.
• Ford Explorer (with Intelligent 4WD): While more oriented for on-road comfort, the Explorer’s available Intelligent 4WD and Terrain Management System™ can confidently handle light trails, gravel roads, and challenging weather conditions.

Which Ford SUV is the right fit for your North Texas lifestyle?

• What is the best Ford SUV for small families in Lewisville? The Ford Escape and Bronco Sport are excellent choices. The Escape offers great fuel efficiency and practicality for city driving, while the Bronco Sport adds a rugged edge and standard 4×4 for weekend fun.
• What is the best Ford SUV for commuting to Dallas? The Ford Escape Hybrid or PHEV is ideal, offering fantastic fuel economy to combat rising gas prices and I-35 traffic. The availability of Ford BlueCruise on models like the Explorer and Expedition also makes long highway commutes much less stressful.
• What is the best Ford SUV for road trips across Texas? The Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition are top contenders. They offer spacious interiors, comfortable rides, and ample cargo space for luggage and gear, making long journeys to the Hill Country or the Gulf Coast a pleasure.
• What is the best Ford SUV for adventurers and off-roaders? The Ford Bronco is the ultimate choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. For a more versatile daily driver that’s still highly capable, the Bronco Sport Badlands™ is a fantastic option.
• What is the best Ford SUV for big families needing maximum space and towing? The Ford Expedition (and especially the Expedition MAX) is the clear winner. With seating for up to eight and best-in-class towing capacity, it can handle large families, big boats, and everything in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which Ford SUV is considered the most reliable?

Ford SUVs, particularly models like the Explorer and Expedition, have a long-standing reputation for reliability and durability. Their robust construction and proven powertrains are designed for longevity, and resources like Consumer Reports often highlight their dependability, making them a trusted choice for families.

Which Ford SUVs offer third-row seating?

The 2026 Ford Explorer, Ford Expedition, and the extended-length Ford Expedition MAX all come with standard or available third-row seating, providing versatile passenger capacity for larger families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

What is the smallest Ford SUV model?

The Ford Escape is the smallest SUV in the 2026 Ford lineup. Its compact dimensions make it highly maneuverable and easy to park, which is a significant advantage in the busier parts of Dallas, Frisco, and Grapevine.

Which Ford SUV gets the best gas mileage?

The 2026 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) delivers the best overall fuel economy, offering a substantial all-electric range for gas-free commuting before its efficient hybrid engine kicks in. The standard Escape Hybrid also provides exceptional MPG, making it a leader in fuel efficiency.

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