The 2026 Ford Explorer continues its legacy as one of America’s most recognized three-row SUVs, offering families a blend of space, technology, and capability. With the introduction of the new Tremor off-road trim and continued refinements across the lineup, the Explorer presents options for various driving needs and lifestyles. Whether you’re commuting through Upper Marlboro, planning weekend adventures, or transporting the family, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 2026 Explorer.
What’s New for 2026
The most significant addition to the 2026 Explorer lineup is the introduction of the Tremor trim, which joins the existing Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST models. The Tremor is positioned as the most capable off-road Explorer to date, featuring specialized equipment designed for adventures beyond paved roads.
Following an extensive refresh for the 2025 model year, the 2026 Explorer carries forward the updated exterior styling, revised interior design, and enhanced technology suite. The panoramic fixed glass roof is now available across all models, and vehicles equipped with Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving now feature an Automatic Lane Change capability.
Trim Level Overview
The 2026 Ford Explorer is available in six distinct configurations, each designed to meet different preferences and requirements:
| Feature | Active | ST-Line | Tremor | Platinum | ST |
| Primary Focus | Entry-level versatility | Sport styling | Off-road capability | Premium luxury | Performance |
| Standard Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cyl | 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cyl | 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cyl | 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cyl | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp | 400 hp |
| Available Engine | — | — | 3.0L V6 (400 hp) | 3.0L V6 (400 hp) | — |
| Intelligent 4WD | Available | Available | Standard | Available | Available |
| Standard Wheels | 18-inch | 20-inch painted | 18-inch off-road | 20-inch | Performance wheels |
| Touchscreen | 13.2-inch | 13.2-inch | 13.2-inch | 13.2-inch | 13.2-inch |
| Audio System | 6-speaker | 10-speaker B&O | 6-speaker (10-speaker B&O available) | 14-speaker B&O | 10-speaker B&O |
| Key Features | Ford Co-Pilot360, Power liftgate, LED lighting | Sport styling, Enhanced interior | Lifted suspension, Skid plates, All-terrain tires, Limited-slip differential | Premium materials, Memory settings, Enhanced driver aids | Sport-tuned suspension, Performance styling |
| Unique Elements | Value-oriented | Sporty appearance | Trail drive mode, Orange accents | Luxury appointments | High-performance powertrain |
Engine Options and Performance
The 2026 Explorer offers two powertrain options designed to balance efficiency and capability:
2.3L EcoBoost Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
- Power Output: 300 horsepower
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD standard, Intelligent 4WD available
- Available on: Active, ST-Line, Tremor (standard)
3.0L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6
- Power Output: 400 horsepower (ST)
- Torque: 415 lb-ft
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Intelligent 4WD standard (Tremor), available (ST)
- Available on: Tremor (optional), Platinum (available), ST (standard)
Towing Capacity
When properly equipped, the 2026 Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, making it suitable for recreational trailers, boats, and other cargo needs.
Terrain Management System
Explorer models include up to six drive modes that adjust vehicle settings for different driving conditions:
- Normal
- Eco
- Sport
- Slippery
- Tow/Haul
- Trail (Tremor)
Interior and Technology Features
The 2026 Explorer’s cabin emphasizes technology integration and passenger comfort across three rows of seating.
Infotainment and Connectivity
- 13.2-inch touchscreen display (standard across all trims)
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (standard)
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Amazon Alexa connectivity
- Google Assistant voice commands
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Eight USB ports distributed across all three rows
- Wireless charging pad (optional)
Audio Systems
| Trim Level | Audio System | Speakers |
| Active | Standard | 6 |
| ST-Line | Bang & Olufsen | 10 |
| Tremor | Bang & Olufsen (available) | 10 |
| ST | Bang & Olufsen | 10 |
| Platinum | Bang & Olufsen | 14 with subwoofer |
Comfort Features
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Heated and ventilated front seats (available)
- Heated second-row seats (available)
- Power-folding third-row seats
- Second-row captain’s chairs (available)
- Panoramic fixed glass roof (available across all models)
- Ambient lighting
- Premium interior materials on upper trims
Seating and Cargo
The Explorer comfortably accommodates seven passengers in a three-row configuration, with available second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six for enhanced comfort and easier third-row access.
Cargo Space:
- Behind third row: Ample space for groceries and everyday items
- Behind second row: Significant expansion for larger cargo
- Behind first row: Maximum cargo capacity for moving larger items
The power liftgate provides convenient access to the cargo area, and the 60/40 split-folding second row and power-folding third row allow for flexible cargo configurations.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2026 Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies designed to provide confidence on every journey. Standard safety features include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping System, Lane Departure Warning, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, Rearview Camera, and Adaptive Cruise Control. These technologies work together to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and provide alerts or interventions when potential hazards are detected.
Available advanced features take safety and convenience to the next level with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0, a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility around the vehicle, Active Park Assist 2.0 for simplified parking maneuvers, and Evasive Steering Assist. Additionally, Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is available on select trims, featuring an Automatic Lane Change capability for 2026 that adds convenience during long-distance highway travel.
All Explorer models feature comprehensive LED lighting technology, including LED low and high beam headlamps with automatic on/off functionality, LED fog lamps for improved visibility in inclement weather, LED signature lighting that creates a distinctive appearance, and LED taillamps. This lighting package enhances visibility for the driver while providing a modern, recognizable appearance.
Exterior Design and Features
The Explorer’s exterior design balances modern aesthetics with functional capability. Standard exterior features across the lineup include LED headlamps with auto high-beam functionality, LED fog lamps and signature lighting, a black mesh grille, body-color door handles and rear spoiler, black roof-rack side rails for cargo versatility, a power liftgate for convenient cargo access, and front and rear skid plate elements in black finish.
The Tremor trim features distinctive exterior elements that emphasize its off-road capability. These include a lifted suspension providing a one-inch increase in ground clearance, modified front and rear bumpers that improve approach and departure angles for navigating obstacles, Electric Spice tow hooks and badges that provide both function and visual distinction, a silver front skid plate, all-terrain tires designed for varied surfaces, and 18-inch off-road wheels built to withstand rugged conditions.
The ST trim showcases its performance orientation through unique exterior styling. Performance-oriented styling elements differentiate it from other Explorer models, while a unique grille treatment emphasizes its sporty character. Sport exhaust tips hint at the powerful engine beneath the hood, and model-specific badging identifies the ST’s high-performance nature.
Available Wheel Options
| Trim | Standard Wheel Size | Available Options |
| Active | 18-inch | 20-inch painted alloy |
| ST-Line | 20-inch painted alloy | Additional designs available |
| Tremor | 18-inch (off-road design) | N/A |
| Platinum | 20-inch | Premium designs |
| ST | Performance wheels | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Ford Explorer?
Fuel economy figures vary by trim level and drivetrain configuration. The turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine typically offers better fuel efficiency compared to the 3.0L V6. Official EPA estimates will be available closer to the vehicle’s release. Contact Upper Marlboro Ford for the most current fuel economy information.
Does the 2026 Explorer come with all-wheel drive?
Intelligent 4WD (four-wheel drive) is standard on the Tremor trim and available as an option on Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST models. The ST and Tremor trims with the 3.0L V6 engine include Intelligent 4WD as standard equipment.
How many passengers can the Explorer seat?
The Explorer seats seven passengers in its standard configuration with three rows. When equipped with optional second-row captain’s chairs, seating capacity is reduced to six passengers.
What makes the Tremor trim different from other Explorer models?
The Tremor trim is specifically designed for off-road capability, featuring a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, steel underbody protection, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, improved approach and departure angles, and standard Intelligent 4WD. It represents the most off-road-capable Explorer available.
Can I use my smartphone with the Explorer’s infotainment system?
Yes, all 2026 Explorer models include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless smartphone integration with the 13.2-inch touchscreen display.
What is Ford BlueCruise?
Ford BlueCruise is an available hands-free highway driving assistance system that works on pre-mapped roads. For 2026, it includes an Automatic Lane Change feature. BlueCruise is available on select Explorer trims.
What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Explorer?
When properly equipped, the 2026 Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds. Actual towing capacity depends on trim level, engine choice, and available towing packages.
Are there different drive modes available?
Yes, the Explorer includes the Terrain Management System with up to six drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and Trail (on Tremor models). These modes adjust vehicle settings to optimize performance for different conditions.
Does the Explorer have a third-row seat?
Yes, all 2026 Explorer models include standard three-row seating. The third row features power-folding functionality for convenient cargo space expansion.
When will the 2026 Ford Explorer be available?
The 2026 Explorer is expected to arrive at dealerships in the near future. Contact Upper Marlboro Ford for the most current availability information and to reserve your preferred configuration.
Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer at Upper Marlboro Ford
The 2026 Ford Explorer represents decades of SUV evolution, offering modern families a vehicle that adapts to their lifestyle. From daily commutes to weekend adventures, from technology integration to safety features, the Explorer provides a well-rounded package across its diverse trim lineup.
At Upper Marlboro Ford, we’re committed to helping you find the right vehicle for your needs. Our team can walk you through each trim level’s features, discuss financing options, and arrange test drives so you can experience the Explorer firsthand. Whether you’re drawn to the practicality of the Active, the off-road prowess of the new Tremor, or the performance of the ST, we’re here to assist throughout your vehicle shopping journey.Visit Upper Marlboro Ford today to discover why the Ford Explorer continues to be a trusted choice for families throughout Maryland. Our dealership is ready to serve you with the expertise and customer service you deserve. Contact us to schedule your test drive or stop by to see the 2026 Explorer lineup in person.
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