The departure of the Timberline trim after the 2024 model year left the Ford Explorer without a purpose-built off-road variant, but that’s where the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor steps in. The Explorer Tremor trim promises rugged performance – and Ford Authority is exclusively reporting that the powertrain lineup will include the 3.0L EcoBoost V6.
Sources familiar with the matter told Ford Authority that the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor will pack the turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4 as standard equipment. However, buyers who want a little more get-up-and-go will have the option to upgrade to the twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6. The choice of two powertrains deviates from the defunct Explorer Timberline, which was exclusively available with the boosted 2.3L I4.
We expect that 3.0L V6 to put out the same 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque as other Explorer models that cradle that same engine. Beyond that, like the Timberline trim it’s replacing, the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor will offer numerous upgrades that lend themselves well to off-road adventures. We’ve already outlined what we know and expect from the forthcoming model, such as meaty all-terrain tires and underbody protection as standard fare, along with off-road struts and rear shocks.
It’s also fitted with aesthetic goodies that set it apart from the rest of the lineup. We’ve already seen what’s in store, thanks to a few examples of the crossover that were being tested completely undisguised. Like other models in the Tremor line, the 2026 Explorer Tremor gets orange exterior accents, including grille trim and tow hooks. We imagine that orange theming extends to the vehicle’s interior, too.
At the time of this writing, The Blue Oval hasn’t pulled the sheets off the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor yet, although CEO Jim Farley posted a teaser on his social media. That means we won’t be waiting long, and some questions should be answered in short order, like how much the off-road-ready model will cost and its specific lineup of options and features.
It's finished in a pretty rare color, too.
It could help automatically improve visibility when needed.
It could possibly be a rebadged Frontier.
Tuning support for the new pony car has arrived.
Another way to beef up one's SUV for the trails.
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Looks great but here is the problem.....QC!
The employees at Chicago Assembly seem to have such a adversarial relationship with Management the Explorer keeps being the leader in recalls. The QC coming out of Chicago Assembly is so poor they started sending Police Explorers to their upfit center next door for a second QC. Walk around a Ford dealership and look for yourself.
Not even close. The explorer line is towards the bottom when it comes to amount of recalls. The bronco sport takes the win in that category, or the f-150. I have the ability to log into a ford site that shows all the currents recalls, stop sells, and so on. There’s very few that include the explorer. I’m on my second explorer, a ‘23 and now ‘25 and all I can say is as I knock wood, have not been affected by recalls on either car.
I owned 6 Explorers, last one a 21 ST that had so many recalls the dealership could not even get parts. They are on recall number 3 for the rear camera that they cant fix it no matter what they do. My Explorer came out of the factory with a wind noise on the rear passenger window. They had to replace the "A" window to get it to seal. In FDRS they showed 14 firmware updates pending on my 21 that were outstanding. I gave up.
I've had my 22 ST since new, only had the bolt recall and camera recall done, that was completed in half a day. After 42K miles I've had 0 problems with it and it's been one of my favorite vehicles, this is coming from a lifelong GM guy. Go on any car forum and you'll see many stories like yours, it's not just Ford....bad luck yes but it's all over the industry.
You think they equip Police Explorers on the assembly line? LOL. They send them to their Upfit center for this purpose.
Where is the Explorer Hybrid?
I would expect a 2 speed transfer case in an Explorer Tremor ?
I thought Farley said they would have best in quality by 2025. I guess at ford quality is job none.
I'm excited more to see if they are adding any new colors to the Platinum trim. Currently have a beautiful Burgundy Velvet 22 Plat and loving it, but looking to upgrade in 2026. The current 2025 colors are boring...
Will check out to see if this Tremor is worth it, but I doubt it'll really be any better than some other 3-Row brands out there. Even the Palisade is getting an off-road variant in 2026 and it comes with more amenities than the Explorer.
If it has a low range opt to delete the 3 row it be a winner or how about a lower price 2 row FX4
I would add the removal of the yellow color in the wheels. I think it looks hideous, and my OCD could not handle them not being in sync with each other.
Ford didn't take money from taxpayers like GM and Jeep/Dodge/Chrysler/AMC...
However the unions made sure to get theirs.
Their vehicles are so overpriced and poorly built it is pathetic.
45K++ for a 2 door F-150 4x4 with a V-8 and NO options?
Give me a break.