As one of America's best-selling SUVs, buyers are always looking forward to nstaew Ford Explorer models. The 2026 Ford Explorer has already been released, and here's what you should know.
Will there be a major redesign in the new Explorer? What would be the starting price for the standard model?
We'll explore these points, and more.
Release Date
The 2026 Ford Explorer has arrived at Riser Ford. Order banks have already opened custom orders, so it's recommended to check in with our team at Riser Ford for more information.
Will the 2026 Ford Explorer Be Redesigned?
No, the 2026 Ford Explorer is not expected to receive a full redesign.
Instead, the new Explorer will retain the significant features introduced in the mid-cycle refresh of 2025. People who are expecting a new ground-up design might have to wait longer.
What you can look forward to are the new trims, primarily the addition of the Explorer Tremor trim. The Tremor trim is built with these new features:
- Off-road-tuned suspension for increased ride height
- Underbody skid plates
- New grille mesh
Meanwhile, the cabin will still feature the 13.2-inch center display and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (located in front of the driver) from the 2025 Explorer model.
Also, the BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance will be available for select trims.
Starting Price
The 2026 Ford Explorer's price varies by trim, with the entry point (Active trim) starting around $38,330. The listed starting prices for other trims are as follows:
- Active 100A: Starting around $38,465
- Active: Starting around $40,585
- ST-Line: Starting around $45,155
- Tremor: Starting around $48,465
- Platinum: Starting around $50,965
- ST: Starting around $54,905
Call 501-525-0800 to check with our team to get updated on any price changes.
Engine Options
There could be a possibility of a new hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain for the 2026 Ford Explorer. However, there's no official announcement yet.
The 2026 model could carry over the successful powertrains from the previous year. Here are the carryover powertrains, along with the expected trims they'll be fitted in:
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4: Active, ST-Line, and Platinum
- 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6: ST, Tremor, and Platinum (optional)
Towing tests for these engines recently point to around 5,000 lbs when properly equipped.
Trim Levels & Features
The 2026 Ford Explorer features a six-trim lineup, including the new Tremor off-road trim. Here's a quick overview that includes expected features for each trim:
- Active 100A: Entry point, 2.3-L turbo I-4, 10-speed automatic, Ford Co-Pilot 360, power liftgate, 13-2-inch center display
- Active: Same specs with 100A, but with an optional P255/55R20 All-Season BSW Tires
- ST-Line: Sporty appearance and unique exterior accents and wheels
- Tremor: Off-road focus, and lifted ride height with available 3.0-L V6 engine option
- Platinum: Near-luxury with interior material upgrades and broader driver-assist availability
- ST: For ultimate performance, featuring a 3.0-L twin-turbo V6 and a sport-tuned chassis
Differences Between 2025 and 2026
Aside from the addition of the off-road-focused Tremor trim, the 2026 Ford Explorer might not have major structural updates. The 2025 model already received significant changes during the mid-cycle refresh.
The differences between the 2025 and 2026 Explorer could hinge more on tech and features, including refinements in the BlueCruise and Ford Digital Experience.
