# There's Lots to Like with the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor *By Dave Taylor, menwhoblog.com — Updated May 2026* Written by: [Dave Taylor](https://menwhoblog.com/dave-taylor.html) Last Updated: 27 May 2026 New!Hits: 5Reading time: 06:04 Ford introduced the Ford Explorer in 1990 as a replacement for the Bronco II, at the moment when America started falling out of love with station wagons and into our current long-term relationship with SUVs. Early Explorers were basically pickup trucks with enclosed cargo areas and family seating, but over the years, the model has evolved into something far more refined, comfortable, and suburban-friendly. It’s also remained one of the mainstays of Ford’s lineup for more than three decades, bouncing between rugged utility vehicle and cushy family hauler depending on what buyers wanted at the time. For 2026, Ford added the new "Tremor" trim level to the Explorer lineup, giving the long-running SUV a bit more off-road credibility with tougher tires, suspension upgrades, skid plates, and styling tweaks that are clearly aimed at people who’d at least like to *look* like they might leave the pavement, even if they're really just heading to soccer practice with the kids. We had a Ford Explorer back in the day, a hand-me-down that turned out to be terrific and quite reliable. It handled bad weather, rough road conditions, and even looked pretty nice, though not compared to the latest generation. When Ford invited me to spend a week driving the [**2026 Ford Explorer Tremor**](https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/models/tremor/), I was all for it, quite curious how it would feel and drive. Unsurprisingly, it was terrific with remarkably few issues or problems... Well, okay, a nit: This is "marsh gray," and I found it to be rather an unappealing muddy brown color. Not my favorite, I would definitely opt for a different choice if I were ordering one for myself. Otherwise, note the "electric spice" orange Tremor touches of color and those sweet black alloy wheels. Overall, this is a solid SUV with terrific curb appeal, equally comfortable for a night out on the town, pre-school pickup duty, or even some light off-road exploring. Light? Well, the Tremor trim is specifically designed to boost the Explorer’s off-road capabilities, but alas, I wasn't allowed to cut loose on a serious trail course to properly test its limits. Certainly in urban, 'burbs and rural areas, including dirt roads, it was entirely sure-footed. The interior also reflects a streamlined, unified design, including a much-appreciated wealth of storage spots and shelves, notably the one just below the climate controls. Those two wires on the side are for my dashcam, if you're wondering, a [Thinkware U3000 Pro that I reviewed on my YouTube channel](https://youtu.be/B2ZK7z5Ogpw). The infotainment display screen is big and bright with a 13.2" LCD touchscreen, and features wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, along with access to a lot of Ford features, including some off-road information: No question, this is a long way from the rather basic [Explorer](https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/) we had twenty years ago, that's for sure. One of the other things you can see in this photo is that the climate control includes three "AUTO" modes, which I really like; tap on Auto, and you can choose fan speed, even as it still manages the temperature in the vehicle. Why don't other vehicles have this simple addition to climate controls? The steering wheel controls work well and are perfectly symmetric, though it's a bit potentially confusing that the entertainment system volume control is on the left side, but the track control is on the right side. The sound system for the Tremor features a Bang & Olufsen 14-speaker system that sounds terrific, even at high speed. The center console is where you can really see all the storage options in the Explorer, from the excellent shelf front and center to the storage and charging pit (with USB plugs and 12V plug) in front of the knob shifter, to the almost hidden bonus space under the armrest. The gearshift knob, however, is a bit disappointing, even if it is functional. I just miss having a shifter, even if it's barely needed with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Speaking of the engine, the [Explorer Tremor](https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/models/tremor/) is powered by a 3.0L Ecoboost V6 engine that delivers very good performance for a vehicle in its class. I had no issues merging onto the highway or keeping up with traffic on the Interstate, even when that 75mph seemed like a taunt for people who wanted to go 90mph! EPA fuel efficiency is 17/22 and I saw mid 19's for mileage, which seemed good for this size and weight vehicle. Of course, another 10-15mpg would always be appreciated - especially with the current gas prices - but this isn't a Prius, it's never going to get that type of fuel efficiency. The main instrument cluster was a distinctly modern display on its dedicated 12.3" display. Again, the company's opted to show a tachometer on the left even though it's an automatic, but at least as a 4x4 there might be situations where you want to know when to upshift or downshift. Want to tow something with your Explorer? It's rated up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped. Even the overhead sunroof controls look bright and modern, as you can see. I expect companies have to be particularly careful about their design because it's hard to read the button labels and icons while driving and the very last thing you want is for a driver to be distracted while trying to close the sunroof at 80mph. Back passengers have it good too, with second row bucket seats: Second row legroom was good, but not fantastic. With a bit of front-seat adjustment, there's plenty of space for adults, however, and the central space does make it easier for kids to clamber into the back, third-row lay-flat bench seat. You can see that, complete with powerfold features, in this photo that includes the cargo area: The buttons on the right side just above the light are the powerfold controls and it makes it delightfully easy to raise or lower that third row as needed for cargo and gear. Notice also the cupholder and gear slots for backrow passengers. The driver'll probably never even know they exist, but they're darn helpful. Second row passengers also have a surprisingly well appointed control area between the two seats that includes full climate controls and plenty of charging options, including a 110V plug. There really is a lot to like about this refined Explorer with the Tremor additions. While I can’t speak to how it would perform on difficult 4x4 terrain, it never once felt anything other than solid and sure-footed during my week of driving all over the place. Exceptionally comfortable, with great acoustic baffling to keep road noise to a minimum, it offered a refined large SUV experience without drifting into the boat-sized territory of the Expedition. Definitely one to check out if you want a bigger SUV that’ll still fit in a regular garage. **[2026 Ford Explorer Tremor 4WD](https://www.ford.com/suvs/explorer/models/tremor/), powered by a 3.0L Ecoboost V6 Engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. BASE PRICE: $48,465.00. Options Included: Keyless Entry Keypad, Ultimate Package, 18" Spare Wheel & Jack Kit, Connection Package, SiriusXM 3 year. AS DRIVEN: $64,405.00.** *Disclosure: Ford loaned me the Explorer Tremor for a week in return for this candid write-up. This article originally appeared on [PlanetDave](https://planetdave.com/) with the title [Lots to Like with the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor](https://planetdave.com/2026/05/lots-to-like-with-the-2026-ford-explorer-tremor/) and is republished with permission of the author.* **Hey Dave Taylor wants you to share this!**   ---   Written by: [Dave Taylor](https://menwhoblog.com/dave-taylor.html) #MenWhoBlog MemberBlog MasterThought Leader Dave Taylor has been blogging and writing about cars and technology for many years. He's a single dad who earned his medals raising three children and currently resides in Boulder, Colorado, where he's surrounded by natural beauty and tons of electronic gear. You can find him at AskDaveTaylor.com or PlanetDave.com. ### Cruises and Resorts Thinking about a cruise or all-inclusive resort vacation? We can help you plan your dream getaway ... [Click Here](https://menwhoblog.com) ### Testing Out Cellular At Sea On Our Recent Canadian Cruise A few months back, I set sail on a 7-day cruise aboard the Norwegian Getaway with my buddy James from ManTripping.com, and unlike most of my normal tropical getaways, this time we decided to head north, visiting some of the most scenic ports along the Eastern… [Read More ...](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/testing-out-cellular-at-sea-on-our-recent-canadian-cruise.html) ### Products & Gear For Men ### Step2 Contemporary Builders Kids Bedroom Set: Block-Inspired Furniture Your Kids Will Love Most people know Step2 for their outdoor gear - the water tables, playhouses, and yard toys that hold up through three hard summers without cracking. What's easier to overlook is that they bring that same build quality indoors. Their Contemporary Builders… [Read More ...](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/step2-contemporary-builders-kids-bedroom-set-block-inspired-furniture.html) ### Related Articles #### Underpowered but Off-Road Ready 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 AWD SUV [Underpowered but Off-Road Ready 2026 GMC Terrain AT4 AWD SUV](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/underpowered-but-off-road-ready-2026-gmc-terrain-at4-awd-suv.html) #### The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Willys 41 4x4 is a Jeep for Jeep Lovers [The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Willys 41 4x4 is a Jeep for Jeep Lovers](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/the-2026-jeep-gladiator-willys-41-4x4-is-a-jeep-for-jeep-lovers.html) #### The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy: A Lovely 7-Seater EV [The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy: A Lovely 7-Seater EV](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/the-2026-hyundai-ioniq-9-calligraphy-a-lovely-7-seater-ev.html) #### The 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD S is Functional, but Dull [The 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD S is Functional, but Dull](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/the-2026-chrysler-pacifica-limited-awd-s-is-functional-but-dull.html) #### Toyota Gets Serious about EVs with the 2026 bZ XLE FWD Plus [Toyota Gets Serious about EVs with the 2026 bZ XLE FWD Plus](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/toyota-gets-serious-about-evs-with-the-2026-bz-xle-fwd-plus.html) - [Login](https://menwhoblog.com/log-in.html) - [For Brands](https://menwhoblog.com/capabilities.html) - [Content Marketing](https://menwhoblog.com/content-marketing.html) - [** Privacy Policy](https://menwhoblog.com/privacy-policy.html) - [** Events](https://menwhoblog.com/upcoming-events.html) - [** Search](https://menwhoblog.com/smart-search.html) - [**](https://menwhoblog.com/sitemap.html?view=html&id=1) - [** Contact Us](https://menwhoblog.com/contact-us.html) - [** Pitch Portal](https://menwhoblog.com/pitchportal.html) ### Connect With Us: - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC73Mim8Djl8v43OweTNaing?sub_confirmation=1) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/menwhoblog/) - [Twitter](http://twitter.com/menwhoblog) - [Facebook Page](http://facebook.com/menwhoblog) - [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/221775444677338/) Make sure to tag us and use #MenWhoBlog on Instagram or Twitter for a chance to be featured on our handles. ### Media, Guest Posts and Speaking: #MenWhoBlog leaders are available for guest posts, podcasts, or to speak with media or at conferences. --- **About menwhoblog.com:** Community and resources for men who blog, create content, and build online businesses. *Source: [There's Lots to Like with the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor](https://menwhoblog.com/blog/theres-lots-to-like-with-the-2026-ford-explorer-tremor.html) — menwhoblog.com*