Ford has unveiled the new 2026 Explorer Tremor, calling it the most powerful and off-road capable Explorer ever built. This is the first time a Tremor badge has been applied to the Explorer nameplate, equipping the mid-sizer with an array of trail-oriented equipment. The new Explorer Tremor replaces the Explorer Timberline, the latter of which was the previously offered as the most off-road friendly variant in the Explorer lineup. In terms of rivals from the GM camp, the new 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor will go head-to-head with the Chevy Traverse Z71 and GMC Acadia AT4.
In terms of specs, the Explorer Tremor is equipped as standard with a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine, doling out 300 horsepower. Buyers can also upgrade to a powerful 400-horsepower 3.0L EcoBoost V6, the same powerplant found under the hood of the sporty Explorer ST.
To help it tackle the local trails, the Explorer Tremor is equipped with an off-road-tuned suspension setup that matches new springs and sway bars, as well as 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Putting it all together, the Explorer Tremor has a one-inch taller ride height, plus improved approach and departure angles compared to the standard SUV.
Further highlights include a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, plus two heavy-duty skid plates (one up front, and one in the rear). The front fascia is equipped with high-intensity LED lights, while front and rear recovery hooks and other unique styling accents add to the look.
On the tech front, the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor offers Ford’s latest BlueCruise 1.5 hands-free driving system with automatic lane changing. Customers will also find the Ford Digital Experience, offering features like WiFi hotspot connectivity, Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. Standard driver assistance features include Copilot 360 Assist 2.0 with a 360-degree camera, while optional comforts include massaging front seats and a 14-speaker B&O stereo.
Orders for the new 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor open up today, June 24th, 2025. Look for the 2026 Explorer Tremor to arrive at dealers later in the year. Specific pricing information is still forthcoming.
Comments
How long before this hunk of junk gets recalled more times than Arnold Shwarzenegger.
Fact check: Ford Explorer, best selling SUV in history. Carry on.
Downvoting a factual statement? Doh!
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Three Decades of the Ford Explorer: A Look Back at The SUV’s …
The Ford Explorer is indeed the best-selling SUV of all time in America. It has held this title for over three decades, with its popularity stemming from its spaciousness, safety features, and dependability.
ford fan on a GM site Doh! Do you actually own a ford exploder?
Only because they now include all the Police Interceptor Utility sales as retail Explorer sales. That’s kind of like saying Traverse sales include Acadia sales. I had 6 Explorers, spent more time at the Dealership then I did driving it. At no time did the Explorer ever not have an outstanding recall, or CSP. Never again.
Maybe, seems to be solely due to police departments. Ford gives these away to municipalities to keep their thumb on police sales. GM’s Chevy/GMC/buick sales dominate the large crossover market with none fleet purchases. Only Toyota is coming close with the Highlander from long time Toyota buyers not wanting a Camry anymore, but it seems those sales are dipping, and not sustainable.
Based on the numerous comments on this site against the four cylinder engines in the Traverse and Acadia, you would think that the sales of these cars would go down as many owners of the previous versions said that they will stick to their V6 powered cars.
At least Ford is offering a V6 in the Explorer.
And speaking about reliability, at times people seem to forget that GM has a recall for over 500k engines.
From what I have read, it will slot above the ST in terms of price, putting it above $55K. The orange accents give it Subaru Wilderness trim vibes. Being rear wheel drive based, the Explorer will probably be more capable “off-road” than the Traverse and Acadia. However, from a looks perspective the Traverse looks a bit better. If they were priced identically, I might be inclined to go with the Ford. Otherwise, if the Z71 truly remains $5K+ less than the Ford (based on pricing speculation), I would go for the Traverse.
Not with that 4 cylinder engine in that Traverse/Acadia, you are not going to convince me to ever spend money on that.
Traverse ZR2 with the 3.0 now?
Now that we know the traverse accepts a long 4 cylinder…..
6th gen 5.3 traverse anyone???
How about a Colorado base rwd 4×4 with a true low range .opt for a lower price basic off roader 2 row trail boss , not a 3 row luxury family school bus like most
Looks like a Toyota
Looking forward to an Off-Road Magazine review pitting the Z-71 Traverse vs the Explorer Tremor. And I hope it includes a review of the deep sand capabilities for beach travel.
Well, on the lawn at the mall?
Let the recalls begin! What a turd.
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I wouldn’t give you 2 pennies for it with all that cheap looking black plastic slathered all over the exterior and the poor reliability and fit and finish.