For 2026, Ford leans into the Explorer's reputation for being a solid all-round SUV. The biggest news is that the automaker added a brand-new off-road trim that doesn't force you to give up your comfort. If you want to see how this model year stacks up against the 2025 refresh, here is the full breakdown of what's changed over.
Key Takeaways
- The Tremor trim, an off-road-focused model, officially joins the lineup for 2026.
- It replaces the Timberline, which was the Explorer's off-road option in previous years.
- Most of the major changes we're seeing now started with the stripped-down lineup in 2025.
What Changed on the Explorer Lineup in 2025 vs. 2026?
The Tremor is the major change to the Explorer for 2026. It comes with a taller suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires wrapped around 18-inch wheels. Ford even reworked the bumpers so you can hit steeper inclines, and it tucked steel plating underneath to keep the important parts safe. If you want to give your Tremor some flash, you can add gold metallic accents to the grille, badges, and tow hooks. Inside, the seats get some cool contrast stitching to match. Aside from the Tremor's arrival, the rest of the lineup carries over from the 2025 refresh.
Speaking of 2025, that was the year Ford simplified everything. They cut the lineup down to just four main models: the Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. (And as we mentioned above, the Tremor has now stepped in for the old Timberline). The Explorer got a fresh look with new headlights, a redesigned grille, and updated taillights. Ford began offering a black roof option for the higher trims and made BlueCruise hands-free driving an available feature. And inside, it swapped in softer materials on the doors and console and launched its "Digital Experience" software, which lets you stream movies or browse the web when still.
Model Year Changes
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2025 Ford Explorer |
| Off-road-focused Tremor trim added to the lineup replacing the Timberline |
Lineup simplified to four trims: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum |
| Tremor features taller suspension, limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires, 18-inch wheels paired with all-terrain tires, revised bumpers, steel skid plating |
Exterior refreshed with new headlights, grille, and taillights, Black roof option introduced on higher trims |
| Rest of the lineup carries over unchanged from the 2025 refresh |
BlueCruise hands-free driving became available, interior upgraded with softer door and console materials, Digital Experience software introduced for streaming and web use |
Ford decided to leave the engines exactly as they were for both model years. If you're looking at the Active, ST-Line, or Platinum, they come with a 300-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but if you need more heat, a 400-hp ST comes standard in the ST. (You can also find that V6 as an option in the Platinum and the new Tremor trims.) Every engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic. While rear-wheel drive is the standard setup, you can always opt for all-wheel drive (though on the Tremor, it's standard from the jump). Regardless of the engine, the Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds when it's properly equipped.
The Ford Explorer's Top Tech and Interior Features
Thanks to last year's refresh, you'll find much nicer materials and new color schemes that make the dash look a lot cleaner. Tech-wise, every model runs the Digital Experience on a 13.2-inch touchscreen. To keep everyone's devices charged, there are eight USB ports scattered throughout the cabin and three 12-volt outlets. Most trims also come with a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, though the Active trim uses a more basic setup.
When Choosing a Midsize SUV, Consider the Explorer
Between the new Tremor and all the upgrades from last year, the Explorer is still a heavy hitter in the midsize SUV world. It's worth stopping by to see how the 2025 and 2026 models compare in person. At Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Davenport, we'd love to get you out for a test drive and show you what these trucks can really do!