Does the 2026 Ford Explorer need premium gas?
No. Regular.
$0extra a year
- Regular listed for the Active RWD.
- Regular: 4 of 8 trims. Premium: 4 of 8 trims.
- Premium by choice: $300 more a year.
- 52% of 138 SUVs (2026) list premium.
12,000 miles a year. Gas $3.20. Premium $0.60 more.
| Trim | Engine | Grade | Mpg | Regular, a year | Premium, a year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active RWD | 2.3L | Regular | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Active w/100A Pkg RWD | 2.3L 4cyl | Premium | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Active 4WD | 2.3L 4cyl | Regular | 23 | $1,670 | $1,983 |
| Active w/100A Pkg 4WD | 2.3L 4cyl | Premium | 23 | $1,670 | $1,983 |
| Active (200A) RWD | 2.3L | Regular | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Active w/200A Pkg RWD | 2.3L 4cyl | Premium | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Active (200A) 4WD | 2.3L | Regular | 23 | $1,670 | $1,983 |
| Active w/200A Pkg 4WD | 2.3L 4cyl | Premium | 23 | $1,670 | $1,983 |
Rivals
| Car | Cheapest trim | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Ford Explorer | Active RWD | Regular |
| 2026 Ford Expedition | Active 4x2 | Regular |
| 2026 Chevrolet Traverse | LT FWD | Regular |
| 2026 Honda Pilot | Sport 2WD | Regular |
| 2026 Toyota Highlander | XLE AWD | Regular |
| 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Laredo 4x2 | Regular |
| 2026 Nissan Pathfinder | S 2WD | Regular |
What this cannot tell you
Check the fuel door or manual before you fill.
Gas prices and the premium gap change by state.
- 2 or more sources
- 1 source
- Model-level, rule or estimate
- Sources disagree