2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Review

There was a time when the Ford Explorer was America's favorite SUV. It hauled families, boats, campers, soccer teams, and everything else people could throw at it. Over the years, as crossovers became softer and more car-like, some of that rugged Explorer personality seemed to fade. For 2026, Ford appears determined to bring some of it back.

The new Explorer Tremor isn't just an appearance package with aggressive tires and orange stitching. Ford started with a full-time intelligent four-wheel-drive system and then added the hardware needed to make it matter, including a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, skid plates, front tow hooks, off-road-tuned shocks, all-terrain tires, and terrain-specific drive modes. Add in the 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6, and you've got an Explorer that is equally comfortable hauling the family to dinner or tackling a muddy trail on the way to a remote campsite. It is easily the most capable off-road Explorer Ford has ever built from the factory.

Exterior     

My tester is the 2026 Explorer Tremor AWD with the Ultimate package, finished in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat paint that has a beautiful glisten in the Texas sun.

The exterior leaves little doubt about what this Explorer is all about. Up front, blacked-out headlights and taillights combine with Tremor badging, skid plates, front tow hooks, black roof rails, and unique 18-inch black-painted wheels wrapped in P265/65R18 all-terrain tires. The hood features prominent EXPLORER lettering, while off-road auxiliary lighting and the raised ride height further separate the Tremor from the rest of the Explorer lineup. It's rugged without looking cartoonish and aggressive without screaming for attention.

Ford also sprinkled the Tremor's signature orange-gold accents throughout the exterior, including the wheels and badging. It's not flashy, but it gives the Explorer a rugged, outdoorsy personality and makes it easy to spot from a distance.

Performance

Power comes from Ford's 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Producing 400-horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, this engine gives the Tremor an entirely different personality than lesser Explorers. Acceleration is immediate, passing power is abundant, and the transmission always seems to find the right gear. Whether you're entering a freeway, climbing a steep grade, or towing a trailer, there is never a feeling that the Explorer is straining. The Torsen limited-slip rear axle and off-road suspension tuning further enhance capability when conditions get rough. Honestly, this engine feels much like an old school V8 and I cannot overemphasize the acceleration.

Interior      

Inside, the Tremor receives its own identity. The Onyx interior with Miko inserts is accented by orange contrast stitching throughout the cabin along with embroidered Tremor logos in the front seatbacks. It is a tasteful treatment that adds character without becoming flashy.

The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, especially with the available multi-contour seats that provide additional support on long trips. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard, along with a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel. My tester also included heated second-row seats, making passengers in all three rows feel welcome.

The dashboard is dominated by a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. The instrument cluster deserves special recognition because it can display a full-screen navigation map directly in front of the driver. The graphics are sharp, easy to read, and make navigating unfamiliar areas much easier.

The 13.2-inch touchscreen runs Ford's Digital Experience operating system, and it is one of the better infotainment systems currently available. I chuckled because they finally got the Sync system right the last few years, now it’s gone. It integrates Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play Store apps, SiriusXM, Bluetooth audio, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, vehicle settings, towing functions, and connectivity features. The system is intuitive and easy to learn. During my week with the vehicle, I particularly liked how quickly I could move between navigation, audio, and vehicle functions without digging through endless menus.

One interesting feature is the availability of downloadable apps through Google Play. Owners can access apps such as YouTube and games while parked, bringing a tablet-like experience to the vehicle without requiring a smartphone connection.

The center console is both attractive and practical. The rotary gear selector frees up valuable space, while the drive-mode selector is positioned within easy reach. Large cupholders, a storage tray ahead of the shifter, charging connections, and a clean layout make the console one of the most functional aspects of the cabin. Ford also deserves credit for retaining physical controls for important functions such as volume, cameras, parking assistance features, and hazard lights. It has auto brake hold and you can turn off the auto start/stop.

Moving back, the second-row passenger experience is very good, and this is where the Explorer continues to excel as a family SUV. My tester came equipped with heated second-row seats, USB-C charging ports, rear climate controls, and generous legroom. The large panoramic moonroof from the Ultimate Package makes the cabin feel even more spacious and gives second-row passengers an airy, open feeling. The seats are comfortable enough for long road trips, and the elevated seating position provides excellent outward visibility. Getting into the third row is also relatively easy. The second-row seats slide and tilt forward, creating a usable pathway to the rear.

Like most midsize three-row SUVs, the third row is best suited for children and smaller adults, but it can accommodate adults on shorter trips when needed.

Utility

The cargo area is another strong point for the Explorer Tremor. Behind the third-row seats, there is 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space, enough for groceries, backpacks, or a couple of carry-on bags.

Fold the third row flat and cargo capacity expands to 46 cubic feet behind the second row. With both rear rows folded, maximum cargo capacity grows to 85.3 cubic feet, creating a large, flat load floor capable of handling everything from home improvement supplies to camping gear. My tester was equipped with the Ultimate Package, which includes power-folding third-row seats, making the transition from passenger duty to cargo hauling quick and effortless. It also included the optional 18-inch spare wheel and jack kit, a feature I always appreciate because a real spare tire beats a can of sealant every time.

Standard Equipment

Standard equipment on the Tremor is extensive. Features include a power liftgate, Class III trailer tow package, remote start, 360-degree camera system, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, 5G modem, universal garage door opener, USB-C ports in all three rows, power passenger seat, first- and second-row floor liners, a 110-volt outlet, selectable drive modes, and Ford Digital Experience with Google Maps and Play Store integration. The standard Bang & Olufsen 10-speaker audio system is also included.

Safety    

Safety features include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Safety Canopy airbags, front-seat mounted side airbags, a driver knee airbag, individual tire pressure monitoring, LATCH child-seat anchors, perimeter alarm, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, and Ford's full complement of electronic stability and traction-control systems.

Options   

The largest addition was the Ultimate Package at $11,850. This package adds a panoramic moonroof with power shade, ambient lighting, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, multi-contour front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, driver's seat memory, and power-folding third-row seats.

Other options on my tester included Star White Metallic Tri-Coat paint for $795, the SecuriCode keyless entry keypad for $455, SiriusXM with 360L and a three-year plan for $300, an 18-inch spare wheel and jack kit for $400, and a seven-year Connected Services Package for $745.

It is a mystery to me why other automakers don't offer the incredibly handy SecuriCode keyless entry keypad that has been around for decades, yet very few manufacturers have ever copied it. Mounted on the driver's door pillar, it allows you to lock or unlock the vehicle using a personal code without carrying a key fob. If you're heading out for a walk, going to the gym, launching a boat, or spending a day at the beach, you can leave your keys safely inside the vehicle and still gain access when you return. I've always considered it one of Ford's most underrated innovations, and after using it for years, it's one of those features that becomes difficult to live without once you've had it. At $455 on my tester, I'd check that box every single time.

Ride and Drive 

On the road, the Tremor strikes a balance between comfort and capability. The off-road tires generate surprisingly little noise, while the suspension absorbs rough pavement effectively. Steering is accurate, body control is good, and the 400-horsepower V6 makes this Explorer feel considerably quicker than most three-row SUVs.

Selecting Sport mode changes both the personality of the vehicle and the appearance of the digital instrument cluster. The graphics become more aggressive, throttle response sharpens, and the Explorer feels noticeably more eager. Yet despite its performance credentials, it remains comfortable enough for daily commuting and long-distance travel. Of course, I spent my time behind the wheel in Sport Mode the entire time and I loved it.

MSRP and MPG

Fuel economy is rated at 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Total MSRP with transportation is coming in under $65,000 before incentives and this is a lot of SUV for the money.

Verdict 

This is a full truck-based SUV that will tow 5,000 pounds with ease and it is a joy to drive. If you are looking for a luxury SUV, this isn’t it. But if you want a great combination of an enjoyable daily SUV that you can take off the pavement, this one is your dream come true. In a market full of SUVs that merely look adventurous, the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor actually delivers the capability its appearance promises. It's the most interesting Explorer Ford has built in a very long time.