Which Ford Explorers have massage seats?
In Ford's Explorer lineup, massage seats are a feature found primarily on the top-tier Platinum trim, with availability depending on the model year and market. They are not common on base or mid-level trims in most recent years.
What massage seat technology means in the Explorer
Ford calls its front-seat massage capability “Active Motion.” The feature provides various massage patterns and intensity levels to help reduce fatigue on long drives, usually bundled with other premium seating features such as heated and ventilated seats. In practice, Active Motion has appeared only on higher trims and as part of specific packages, not as a universal feature across all Explorers.
Active Motion and related seating features
Active Motion is designed to work with the driver and front passenger seats, often alongside heated and ventilated functions. The exact implementation and controls can vary by model year and market, so the presence of a massage function may depend on the specific configuration you choose or purchase.
Which trims and model years offer massage seats?
Below is aSnapshot of typical availability in recent years. Note that exact inclusion can vary by year, market (US vs. international), and optional packages. Always verify with the dealer or the official Ford build/configurator for the exact model year you’re considering.
- Platinum trim: In most recent model years, the Explorer Platinum commonly includes front-seat massage via Ford’s Active Motion system, often bundled with heated/ventilated seats and premium upholstery. Availability may require a specific seating or luxury package depending on the year.
- Other trims: In some years or markets, massaging front seats have appeared only when paired with a premium seating package or specific regional editions. This is not guaranteed across all Explorer trims or model years.
When shopping, prioritize the Platinum trim and review the exact equipment list for your year to confirm whether massage seats are included or available as part of an optional package.
How to confirm for your specific Explorer
To avoid confusion about whether a particular vehicle has massage seats, use these steps to verify before purchase or lease commitment.
- Inspect the seat controls on the driver’s (and front passenger’s) seat for a “Massage” option or an Active Motion control. Some vehicles place massage controls near or within the seat adjustment panel.
- Consult the owner’s manual section on seating and massage features to understand how to activate and adjust the function.
- Check the vehicle’s window sticker (Monroney) or the official Ford Build & Price configurator for the model year to see if massage seats are included in the trim or package.
- Ask your Ford dealer to confirm the exact equipment for the VIN you’re considering, since configurations can vary by production date and market.
If the feature isn’t listed in the configuration or dealer notes, your Explorer likely does not have massage seats, as they remain a feature limited to top trims or specific options.
Summary
Massage seats in the Ford Explorer are a premium feature most commonly found on the Platinum trim in recent years, with activation via Ford’s Active Motion system. Availability depends on model year and market, and some configurations may require a luxury or premium seating package. Always verify the exact contents with Ford’s configurator or a dealer for the specific vehicle you’re considering.
