2026 Ford Explorer Tremor First Look: Extra Off-Road Capability for More Exploring

The Tremor trim level from Ford has become the top off-road package across its SUV and truck lineup short of the desert-bombing Raptor models. Unlike the dune-focused Raptor treatment, the Tremor offers decent all-around off-road performance for more reasonable money and without compromising on-road comfort or performance much. Now the three-row Ford Explorer is being added to the Tremor family for the 2026 model year, elevating the family friendly SUV to a brasher, more rugged level.

Like other Tremors, the Explorer gets dark-painted 18-inch wheels with a copper-colored element—that Ford calls “electric spice”—wrapped in Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires. These copper-accented wheels join the “Tremor” badging, copper-accented grille with off-road lights mounted inside it, and copper front tow-hooks.

Along with the visual changes, the Explorer Tremor features improved approach and departure angles with revised bumper covers with steel skid plates. Further functionality comes in the form of an off-road-tuned suspension that adds one inch to the overall height and helps create extra ground clearance under the middle of the vehicle.

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For the drivetrain, Ford installs a Torsen limited-slip rear differential that should help maintain traction. While not quite as effective as a locker for truly slick and get-stuck conditions, the limited-slip should help power each wheel equally for longer before a loose wheel slips and stops providing forward motion like a pedestrian open-differential would. It’s at least good enough for the level of off-road challenges the Explorer Tremor is expected to traverse.

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Normally limited to the Platinum and ST trims, the Explorer's available twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine will also be available as an option in the Explorer Tremor. Its 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque out-muscle the 300 hp and 310 lb-ft provided by the more efficient 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that's standard (and also works through a limited-slip rear diff).

Inside, the 2026 Explorer Tremor features front seats with the “Tremor” logo stitched in “spice” coloring into the upper seat backs while they, the door cards, steering wheel, center console, and dashboard padding gain “spice” accent stitching, too. Standard is a 13.2-inch infotainment screen with the latest version of the Ford Digital Experience UI. You also get the standard Copilot 360 Assist 2.0 system to ensure your drive to your favorite off-road trail is safe. Interior options include massaging front seats, the B&O 14-speaker premium audio system, and BlueCruise 1.5.

The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor can be ordered now at your local dealership, but full pricing and availability won’t be announced until late 2025 to keep in time with the rest of 2026 model year Explorer lineup.