ST-Line or ST, How the 2027 Ford Explorer Trims Differ
The Ford Explorer ST-Line is a trim in the 2027 Explorer lineup. It sits between Active and Tremor in Ford trim list and pairs the ST name with the 2.3-litre EcoBoost I-4 engine. It’s not the Explorer ST, which is the V6-powered performance model. Two trims share the same two letters, so shoppers in Barrhaven […]
The Ford Explorer ST-Line is a trim in the 2027 Explorer lineup. It sits between Active and Tremor in Ford trim list and pairs the ST name with the 2.3-litre EcoBoost I-4 engine. It’s not the Explorer ST, which is the V6-powered performance model.
Two trims share the same two letters, so shoppers in Barrhaven and across Ottawa often ask how they differ. Here’s what ST-Line means, what it brings to your driveway, and what the ST adds. When you’re ready to compare trims, browse the new Ford Explorer inventory at Barrhaven Ford.
What Does ST-Line Mean on the 2027 Ford Explorer?
On the Explorer, ST-Line is a trim level with its own equipment. It takes its name from the ST, the performance-focused Explorer. The ST’s chassis hardware stays with the ST, and the ST is the only trim with the V6 as standard.
The two trims are built for different drivers:
- ST-Line: the ST name, the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with Auto Start-Stop, a B\&O Sound System, and a 360-degree camera
- ST: the 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21-inch wheels
2027 Explorer Trims at a Glance
The 2027 Explorer comes in five trims. Each has its own focus, and all five share 4WD and seating for up to 7. Here’s where the ST-Line fits.
| Trim | Engine | Standout features |
|---|---|---|
| Active | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | Intelligent 4WD, heated front-row seats (standard), Ford Security Package |
| ST-Line | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | B\&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 10 speakers including subwoofer, 360-degree camera |
| Tremor | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (3.0L EcoBoost V6 available) | Torsen limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, front and rear deflector plates |
| Platinum | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (3.0L EcoBoost V6 available) | Heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats with leather inserts, Panoramic Vista Roof with power shade |
| ST | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | Sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, 21-inch wheels |
Specifications are from Ford Canada’s Explorer page, 2027 Explorer.
The ST-Line shares the Active’s 2.3L engine and adds premium sound and a 360-degree camera.
What the 2027 Explorer ST-Line Brings
The ST-Line starts with the Active’s efficient four-cylinder setup and adds equipment you’ll use every day. Here’s the breakdown.
The 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 With Auto Start-Stop
The 2.3-litre EcoBoost inline 4-cylinder is the standard engine on every 2027 Explorer except the ST. It works with Auto Start-Stop Technology, which shuts the engine off at stops and restarts it when you lift off the brake. That’s handy in Strandherd Drive rush hour.
Ford Canada rates it at 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy falls outside this article too. The team can walk you through the figures.
4WD on Every Trim
Ford builds the 2027 Explorer with 4WD across all models, ST-Line included. The Active highlights Intelligent 4WD in its equipment list. Want a closer look at how that system handles Ontario snow? Read AWD or 4WD? What the 2027 Ford Explorer Brings to Snow.
B\&O Sound and a 360-Degree Camera
Two features set the ST-Line apart from the Active:
- B\&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, with 10 speakers including a subwoofer
- 360-degree camera, which gives you a full view around the SUV in tight spots
The ST-Line also carries the Explorer model-wide strengths. Keep in mind these are maximums for the Explorer as a whole. Ford doesn’t tie them to the ST-Line on its own.
- Seating for up to 7
- Cargo volume up to 2,431 L
- Max available towing of 5,000 lbs (2,267 kg)
- Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist suite, which Ford lists as standard
- Selectable drive modes, wireless connectivity, and Ford Digital Experience infotainment
For seats, screens and cabin space, see Seats, Screens and Space in the 2027 Ford Explorer.
What the Explorer ST Adds Over the ST-Line
The ST is the Explorer built around performance. It shares 4WD and the family-friendly layout. Then it adds a bigger engine and hardware tuned for spirited driving.
| 2027 Explorer ST-Line | 2027 Explorer ST | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with Auto Start-Stop | 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, up to 400 hp |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Signature features | B\&O Sound System (10 speakers including subwoofer), 360-degree camera | Sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, 21-inch wheels |
| Extras | Ask the dealer about package options | ST Sinister Package, Ford BlueCruise |
Extras on the ST
The ST also opens up two extras. The ST Sinister Package adds 21-inch Gloss Black-painted wheels, unique accent lighting, and black-outlined ST badges. Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is offered on the ST too, with a 1-year + 90-day plan included. It’s a relaxed way to cover Highway 416 and the 401 toward Kingston, or Highway 417 to Montréal.
The ST suits drivers who want V6 power and a sport-tuned chassis. Both trims deliver 4WD and room for up to 7.
Where the ST-Line Fits for Barrhaven Drivers
The ST-Line is the 2027 Explorer trim that carries the ST name with the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4. Over the Active, it adds a B\&O Sound System and a 360-degree camera.
Trim and option details vary, so contact Barrhaven Ford for the specifics. To see both trims side by side, browse the Explorer inventory at Barrhaven Ford.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does ST-Line Mean in Ford Cars?
ST-Line is a trim name that borrows from Ford ST performance models while using different hardware. On the 2027 Explorer, the ST-Line runs the 2.3-litre EcoBoost I-4 with Auto Start-Stop. It features a B\&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 10 speakers including a subwoofer, plus a 360-degree camera. The Explorer ST is a separate trim with the 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6. For other Ford nameplates, the Barrhaven Ford team can explain how each lineup is arranged.
What Is the ST Package on a Ford Explorer?
The ST is a full trim in the Explorer lineup, not a package added to the ST-Line. It uses the 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 hp, plus sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21-inch wheels. The package tied to it is the ST Sinister Package, offered on the ST. It adds 21-inch Gloss Black-painted wheels, unique accent lighting, and black-outlined ST badges.
What Does ST-Line Mean on the Ford Explorer?
On the Explorer, ST-Line is one of five trims: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum and ST. It sits between Active and Tremor in Ford trim list. The ST-Line shares the Active’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 and adds a B\&O Sound System and a 360-degree camera. The ST, meanwhile, is the trim with V6 power and sport-tuned hardware. Every Explorer trim comes with 4WD and seating for up to 7.
Which Engine Powers the 2027 Ford Explorer ST-Line?
The ST-Line uses the 2.3-litre EcoBoost inline 4-cylinder, which Ford lists as standard on every model except the ST. It pairs with Auto Start-Stop Technology, which shuts the engine off at a stop and restarts it when you ease off the brake. Ford Canada’s specs don’t list horsepower or torque for this engine. So the best source for those details is the Barrhaven Ford team, who can confirm the figures for the unit you’re considering.
Does the 2027 Explorer ST-Line Come With 4WD?
Yes. Ford builds the Explorer with 4WD across all models, so the ST-Line includes it like every other trim. On the Active, Ford highlights its Intelligent 4WD system. That’s welcome traction for snowy Ottawa winters and slushy spring roads. For a full explanation of how the system works in snow, see the Barrhaven Ford blog post on whether the Explorer uses AWD or 4WD.
What Does the 2027 Explorer ST Add Over the ST-Line?
The ST steps up to the 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 hp. It also features sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and 21-inch wheels. The ST offers the ST Sinister Package and Ford BlueCruise as well, with a 1-year + 90-day plan included. To compare both trims in person, visit Barrhaven Ford in Barrhaven, Ottawa, and the team will walk you through each one.
Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle and feature availability.
