In recent years, we’ve simply become accustomed to watching as new vehicle prices increase with each passing model year, and oftentimes, even during mid-year updates. However, that somewhat surprisingly wasn’t the case with the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, a model that replaces the similar Timberline for the new model year. Rather, the off-road-focused Explorer is actually $1,000 cheaper than its predecessor with destination included, but as it turns out, two other trims are getting cheaper for the new year, too.
That list starts with the 2026 Ford Explorer Active – the entry-level trim in the lineup – which now starts out at $38,330, a cool $1,720 less than the 2025 model, which had an MSRP of $40,050. The more luxurious Platinum has also gotten cheaper with a new MSRP of $50,830, which is $1,695 less than the 2025 model’s starting price tag of $52,525. Otherwise, the 2026 Ford Explorer ST-Line and ST stand pat in terms of pricing for the new model year, and that’s also true of destination charges.
| 2026 Ford Explorer Prices – June 2025 | 2025 Ford Explorer Prices – June 2025 | + / – 2025 Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active | $38,330 | $40,050 | $-1720 |
| ST-Line | $45,020 | $45,020 | $0 |
| Tremor | $48,330 | N/A | $0 |
| ST RWD | $54,770 | $54,770 | $0 |
| ST AWD | $56,770 | $56,770 | $0 |
| Platinum | $50,830 | $52,525 | $-1695 |
| Destination and Delivery | $1,695 | $1,695 | $0 |
Other than these price updates, the 2026 Ford Explorer is getting a few other tweaks, just one year after it was treated to a mid-cycle refresh. One of the most notable pertains to the Platinum, which is dropping the twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 EcoBoost as an option, making the turbocharged 2.3L I-4 EcoBoost the default powerplant for that trim, as Ford Authority was the first to report.
Additionally, the 2026 Ford Explorer lineup is losing its Panoramic Vista Roof, replacing it with the optional Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof, which – unlike the previous piece – can’t be opened, even partially. Otherwise, the most notable change is the addition of the all-new Explorer Tremor, which follows much of the Timberline’s formula with a series of rugged appearance upgrades paired with functional ones, making it more off-road-capable than other trims.
Exclusive to - you guessed it - the Lariat trim.
Perhaps a bit more affordable than the real thing.
An option for light, dark, and in-between.
Picking right up where she left off.
Red and white: a simple, classic color combo.
View Comments
How about more colors to the interior?, only black and gray...unreal in this day in time only two colors for interior...and seemly Ford is reducing exterior colors as well, they axed the iconic silver, You go about any Ford dealerhip and all they have is black interior, i had them before, with all this hot weather...and show up dirt more...should at least have some more interior choices,,Take the Ford Transit,,,only had two and they look simliar, Henry Ford was right, you can have any color you want as long as it black
I live in the desert, black exterior or interior is not an option for me. My 2017 F-350 and my 2023 Santa Fe both have tan interiors.
Well, no larger engine in the Platinum... They lost me there. I like the comfort and the power... Guess I'll keep looking for something comparable. And I was really looking forward to having all the same accessories as my 22 Plat... Also, the colors are lame. Why Ford? You just give up making cool looking vehicles? My 22 is beautiful Burgundy Velvet... the ONLY year it was available. Why? And why no ST in Blue/Grey or Desert Tan for the Tremor?
Was planning on another 3.0 Platinum Expl for ‘26 with full working roof option when current lease expires but will be looking for new choice. Too bad Ford discontinuing those options on Explorer. Really like that vehicle.
Why do they continue to make this thing worse each year? I'm currently shopping used because they've stripped this thing of features the last 3 years it seems.