Discover the one‑off 2026 Ford Explorer crafted for Pope Leo XIV, featuring a rare hybrid V6 powertrain and bespoke Chicago‑inspired details. Learn more now!
Following the 2021 one‑off Ford Bronco built for Pope Francis, Ford has rolled out another ultra‑exclusive vehicle—this time a custom‑spec 2026 Ford Explorer presented to Pope Leo XIV. The SUV combines a rare hybrid powertrain with a host of Chicago‑themed, personalized touches.
From the CEO’s Gift to the Vatican
The Explorer was a personal present from Ford CEO Jim Farley and his wife Lia. Hand‑delivered on 28 February, the vehicle is destined for use within Vatican City, symbolising a unique bridge between the automaker’s Chicago roots and the Pope’s birthplace.
Exterior: Black Elegance with Papal Badges
Finished in a sleek black paint with chrome accents, the SUV sports two custom licence plates reading “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV.” At a glance it resembles a standard Explorer, but the badges signal its truly singular status.
Interior: Chicago Pride in Every Detail
The cabin is a showcase of bespoke craftsmanship. Dual‑tone leather seats are embroidered with the Chicago city flag, while the steering‑wheel hub features the city’s skyline stitched in fine leather. Door panels carry the same motif, creating a cohesive tribute to the Pope’s hometown.
Additional touches include graphics of St. Peter’s Basilica and a European‑band radio preset, allowing the Pope to tune into continental stations while on the road.
Powertrain: A Hybrid V6 That’s No Longer in Production
Under the hood lies a 3.3‑liter V6 hybrid delivering roughly 318 horsepower. This particular hybrid system has been discontinued for civilian Explorer models and now only appears in the Ford Police Interceptor Utility, making the Pope’s Explorer an even rarer specimen.
CEO’s Remarks and Behind‑the‑Scenes Story
Jim Farley said the Pope enjoyed a brief test drive and was especially impressed with the personalized details. Farley also expressed pride in Chicago, even blessing a set of rosary beads for Ford employees.
The project was shrouded in secrecy. A small team at the Chicago Assembly Plant received a special assignment to build “a VIP vehicle.” Only after two months of work did the workers learn their masterpiece was intended for the Pope, prompting surprise and pride throughout the plant.
Why Not a European‑Spec Explorer?
Interestingly, Ford did not opt for the Europe‑market Explorer built on the Volkswagen ID.4 platform—an electric model capable of 335 hp. Instead, they chose the Chicago‑built gasoline‑hybrid version, reinforcing the personal connection to Pope Leo XIV’s origins.
The custom Explorer stands as a testament to Ford’s ability to blend high‑performance engineering with deeply personal storytelling—an exclusive gift that will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it rolls.