2026 Ford Explorer Tremor SUV gets new off-road chops, more style

The 2026 Ford Explorer’s off-road credibility is in for a boost when the midsize SUV adds a model with the automaker’s popular Tremor badge later this year.

The Explorer Tremor adds gear, including three steel skid plates, increased ground clearance  and a Torsen rear differential.

The 2026 Explorer Tremor also gets handsome visual upgrades from bright LED off-road lights across a new grille to “Electric Spice” orange details.

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Ford key facts

On sale late 2025

Standard four-wheel drive

3.0L twin-turbo V6 or 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine

400-hp maximum power

10-speed automatic transmission

31.5-inch Bridgestone all-terrain tires

18-inch gloss black painted wheels with orange highlight

Electric spice orange highlights

Assembled in Chicago

Price: TBA

Taking the Explorer off-road — for real, this time

The Tremor should add meaningful capability compared with the Explorer’s short-lived Timberline trim, which was about looks more than function. Ford discontinued the Timberline after the 2024 model year.

The Tremor is an outdoorsy model mirroring the performance-oriented ST in the Explorer lineup. ST prices start at $56,770. It’s not unreasonable to expect the Tremor in the same neighborhood.

Tremors will be available with either a 2.3L four-cylinder or 3.0L V6 engine. The only performance figures Ford has revealed is 400 hp from the twin-turbo V6. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

A 14-speaker B&O audio system will be available.

The Explorer is the second Ford SUV to get a Tremor model, following the Expedition. There are also Tremor models of Ford’s pickups.

What makes the Explorer Tremor special?

The Explorer Tremor’s front corners were carved out so the front wheels can tackle big rocks without damaging the fascia. Selecting a new off-road mode modifies throttle response, shift points, traction control, power distribution, 360-degree trail view and an inclinometer.

Other unique Tremor touches include:

• 1 inch more ground clearance

• Twin front recovery hooks

• LED off-road lights in grille

• Steel front, rear and transmission skid plates

• Unique front and rear fascia

• Off-road driving mode

• Improved approach and departure angles

• Trail view cameras

• Unique stabilizer bars and springs

• Upgraded shock absorbers

The Tremor will be the first vehicle with the 1.5 version of Ford’s Blue Cruise hands-free driving system, which adds fully automatic lane changes to its other features.

It shares the upgrades the 2025 Explorer received, including Google navigation, apps and music. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard equipment.

Ford is taking orders for the Explorer Tremor now.