Get ready for an off-road-focused Ford Explorer. No, it’s not a bonkers Raptor with jump-happy suspension, but it is an Explorer Tremor. Ford teased the new trim with a simple image showing an Explorer’s dirty backside with a Tremor badge in full view.
That’s all we have officially, aside from a promise that it’s coming soon. We suspect that means later this year, since Ford’s enduring SUV is presently without any sort of off-road-themed trim. The refreshed Explorer arrived last year, but the Timberline didn’t make the transition. Considering how family SUVs with a touch of burly attitude are popular these days, Ford is probably keen to get something into showrooms.
Whereas Timberline trims in the Ford lineup have been largely appearance-focused, the Tremor usually brings a bit more to the table. More aggressive all-terrain tires are guaranteed, and a modest suspension lift with upgraded suspension components should give the Explorer Tremor a bit more ground clearance. This is still a three-row SUV with family duties first and foremost, so anything more than an extra inch is highly unlikely. Skid plates should protect the important bits underneath, too.
The bigger question is whether Ford will change any other hardware to bring more off-road functionality to the Explorer. The F-150 Tremor has optional running gear from the Raptor to help crawl over difficult terrain, and the Maverick Tremor gains a locking rear differential. At the very least, we expect updated driving modes with some software enhancements to help in off-road situations.
There’s no reason to expect any power upgrades for the Explorer Tremor. You can already get a 400-horsepower 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 in higher trim levels, so the big question is whether Ford will let buyers get Tremor looks and off-road bits with the less-expensive 2.3-liter four-cylinder. It’s still plenty capable in the Explorer with 300 hp, and it could give buyers a price-conscious choice in the lineup.
Expect to see the Explorer Tremor debut later this year as a 2026 model.
Our Take On Tremors:
The 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor Is a Superb Truck Few Will Buy: Review
The Ford Maverick Tremor Is Cute and Kinda Capable