Autopia: Ford applies Tremor package to best-selling Explorer

By James Raia

In recent years, Ford has offered elaborate off-road packages for already rugged-oriented vehicles. The combined optional features are marketed as “Tremor” editions.

The odd name, part of the carmaker’s rebadging, usually connotes involuntary movement.

For 2026, the Ford Explorer gets the same treatment. The testosterone-loaded Tremor replaces the Timberline.

Changes are aplenty. The Explorer, positioned between the Edge and Expedition, is Ford’s best-selling sport utility vehicle. It debuted in 1991 and is now in the seventh year of its sixth generation.

Various updates and refreshes have occurred. The Explorer’s legacy is also chock-full of recalls and investigations. An influx of competitors also add to the vehicle’s current not-so-stellar reputation. In 2000, Ford sold 445,157 Explorers in the United States. In 2025, the tally was 222,706.

The Explorer Tremor is equipped with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6—the same twin-turbo engine used in the Explorer ST. It has 400 horsepower, a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour is rated at 5.5 seconds, an impressive performance for an off-road-oriented SUV. But the Explorer’s acceleration is loud, prompting one of the vehicle’s few engine downfalls. It’s smooth and quiet on the open road, but getting up to cruising speed seems like a struggle.

Gas mileage estimates are 17 miles per gallon in city driving, 22 mpg on the highway. But during a recent 700-mile mostly freeway round-trip, fuel efficiency reached 23.8 mpg.

Catering to off-road buyers, the Tremor edition features are extensive: A tuned suspension with unique springs and sway bars, a one-inch lift for extra ground clearance and 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Steel skid plates further protect the underbody and for more outdoorsy use, there are front recovery hooks and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential.

The Ultimate Package ($11,055) adds seven upscale items: a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers (and a subwoofer) to ambient lighting. Third-row seats power-folded and there’s an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Interior features begin with a segment-leading array of upholstery options: cloth, ActiveX (upscale vinyL and cloth, ActiveX and Miko (geometric patterns) leather or leather seat upholstery with tri-diamond micro-perforated inserts.

Regardless of choice, front and second-row seating configurations are thoughtful designed and spacious. Third-row seating isn’t adult-friendly, but the car’s overall view and comfort make travel on-road as comfortable as the SUV’s touted off-road prowess.

The dashboard features include a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. The instrument cluster can display a full-screen navigation map directly in front of the driver. Graphics are easy to read. Navigation instructions are presented in plenty of time and with a confident tone.

Efficiency is further offered via technology integration. Bluetooth Audio, Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play Store apps, SiriusXM, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto operate smoothly. All settings — connectivity to towing — are intuitive.

More SUVs are leaning toward luxury travel. But the Explorer maintains strong utilitarian components. Overall cargo space with the third row extended flat is 85.8 cubic. There are 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and 46 cubic feet behind the second row. Further conveniences include a spacious center console, an overall console and 10 beverage holders.

With options, the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor’s MSRP of $48,330 is pushed to $64,225. It’s a hefty tally but likely worthy for off-road adventurers’ needs.

Ford obviously believes in the concept. The new Explorer joins the F-150, Super Duty, Expedition and Maverick, offering Tremor additions. Bold lettering, masculine features and off-road equipment define the lineup’s orientation. What remains perplexing is the name.

James Raia is a syndicated automotive columnist in Sacramento. He also contributes business, lifestyle, sports and travel articles to several print and online publications. Email: [email protected].