Deciding between the 2025 and 2025 Ford Explorer? Our comparison guide helps you choose the best three-row midsize SUVs for your intrepid North Shore lifestyle! We review everything that's changed between model years, from paint colors to MSRP.
Key Takeaways
- While the 2026 Explorer isn't redesigned, major updates for 2025 help make it an ultra-modern choice!
- The 2025 Explorer introduced a new trim lineup (Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum), and the 2026 model adds the trail-ready Tremor!
- Although the twin-turbo V6 is no longer available for the 2026 Explorer Platinum, it is optional for the rugged new Tremor trim.
- Compared to last year's SUV (starting at $40,050*), the 2026 Explorer actually saves you a little money (starting at $38,465*)!
Key Differences: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
After a major revamp for 2025, not a whole lot has changed for the 2026 Ford Explorer! But there are some exciting new options, including a panoramic fixed-glass roof (available for all trim models) and a one-time purchase for hands-free BlueCruise services (as opposed to paying a monthly or yearly subscription rate).
New for 2026
- New off-road-ready Tremor trim available
- BlueCruise One-Time Purchase now available for ST-Line and up
- Panoramic fixed-glass roof with power shade now optional for all trims
- New paint color, Marsh Gray, is available
- Explorer ST now comes standard with a second-row bench seat
- Explorer Platinum no longer available with 3.0L EcoBoost V6
Trim Models: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
Both model years treat you to four incredible options: the handsomely equipped (and priced) Active, stylish ST-Line, performance-based ST, and premium Platinum. However, the 2026 Explorer adds a new trim model: the trail-ready Tremor! It's already popular with families who can't get enough of Louisiana's all-natural outdoor playground. Keep reading for a list of highlights from each of these Explorer SUVs.
Active
Start your wild adventures at a great price!
- Heated front seats
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
- Ford Digital Experience infotainment with 13.2-inch touchscreen
- Power liftgate
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package (including adaptive cruise control)
- Class III Trailer Tow Package (5,000 lbs. max towing)
ST-Line
Add to the base Active lineup with sleek styling, inside and out!
- Unique cloth seats with red accent stitching
- 10-speaker B&O sound system, including subwoofer
- Black exterior trim
- Blackout treatment for headlamps and taillamps
- Ford Co-Pilot Assist 2.0 package (including 360-degree camera)
Tremor (2026 Explorer only)
Finally -- an Explorer that comes with everything you need to tame the wilderness.
- Miko seats with accent stitching
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Flat-bottom steering wheel
- Torsen limited-slip rear axle
- Off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height
- Front and rear underbody protection
- Front tow hooks
Platinum
Choose the Platinum for an ultra-luxe ride!
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging front-row seats with driver memory settings
- Leather-covered steering wheel and front-row console
- Second-row heated captain's chairs
- Third-row PowerFold seats (fold flat)
- BlueCruise equipped (one-year subscription)
ST
This Explorer adds to the flashy ST-Line features with zippy performance gear!
- 21-inch Magnetite-painted wheels
- Miko upholstery with accent stitching
- Heated and ventilated front seats with driver memory settings
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft of torque)
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Performance brakes with red-painted calipers
Powertrain Options: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
While these SUVs offer the same engine options, availability has changed slightly, depending on which trim model you select. In a nutshell, the 2025 Explorer Platinum is available with the 3.0-liter V6 as an upgrade and the 2026 Explorer Platinum is not. Instead, this 400-horsepower engine becomes optional for the all-new 2026 Explorer Tremor!
Powertrain Options: 2025 vs. 2026 Explorer
|
2025 Explorer |
2026 Explorer |
| 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (300 hp, 311 lb-ft of torque) |
Standard for Active, ST-Line, Platinum |
Standard for Active, ST-Line, Tremor, Platinum |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft) |
Standard for STOptional for Platinum |
Standard for STOptional for Tremor |
| 10-Speed Automatic Transmission |
Standard for all trim models |
Standard for all trim models |
| SelectShift paddle shifters |
Standard for ST |
Standard for ST |
| Rear-Wheel Drive |
Standard for Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum |
Standard for Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum |
| All-Wheel Drive |
Optional for Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum |
Standard for TremorOptional for Active, ST-Line, ST, Platinum |
Price: 2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2026 Ford Explorer
So, is the 2026 Ford Explorer upgrade worth it? Starting at $38,465*, the 2026 model is technically more affordable than last year's SUV, with its MSRP of $40,050*! If you're looking for the absolute best deal, ordering the latest Explorer is absolutely worth it.
Then again, these model years have more in common than not. Depending on what you're looking for, you can choose one or the other without missing out on endless family adventure! Visit us at Banner Ford in Mandeville, LA, to test-drive these all-star midsize SUVs.
*MSRP as of 2/20/26. Subject to change.