The updates headed to the 2026 Ford Explorer are few, but significant. Take the all-new Tremor trim, which joins the lineup for the first time, replacing the discontinued Timberline trim. Another important update concerns the crossover’s optional glass roof.
Sources familiar with the matter told Ford Authority that the 2026 Ford Explorer is losing its Panoramic Vista Roof, replacing it with the optional Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof. As a reminder, the Panoramic Vista Roof offers a moonroof component, meaning it can be partially opened. However, the new fixed glass roof does not open.
The fixed glass roof is optional on all 2026 Ford Explorer trims, although its availability does depend on certain options chosen. In order to acquire the glass roof on the entry level Active and ST-Line trims, it must be paired with four-wheel-drive (4WD). It can only be added to the Explorer Tremor as part of the optional Tremor Ultimate Package, and ST buyers must opt for the Sun and Sound Package in order to equip it on their crossover. At the time of this writing, pricing for these packages, and the fixed glass roof itself, are not available.
In addition to the changes to the glass roof, other updates headed to the 2026 Ford Explorer include the deletion of the twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6 from the Platinum trim, leaving the turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine as the sole option for this trim. However, the 3.0L V6 remains standard on ST and optional on Tremor, as Ford Authority was the first to report.
As previously stated, the biggest change is the addition of the all-new Tremor trim, but the crossover also gains a couple new wheel options, while the ST trim can now be fitted with a second-row bench seat. There are also updates inbound to its BlueCruise subscription model along with the addition of the Ford Connectivity Package.
At the time of this writing, 2026 Ford Explorer pricing has not been revealed.
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Ford has pushed me away due to cost cutting gimmicks. My wife and I was ready to buy a 2026 Ford Explorer, but now I will seek other platforms. Ford has taken away paddle shifters, keyless entry, the 3.0, incorporated wet belt technology, and taken away the sunroof. I have had 4 Explorers in a row. Been a Ford fan for 30 years. Enough. Time to change. Wake up Ford before your reputation is ruined.