Looking for a family vehicle that does it all? You may be interested in knowing how the Explorer continues to deliver three-row practicality, strong towing capability, and a growing lineup that now includes the off-road-ready Tremor. Meanwhile, Subaru gives the Outback its first complete redesign in years with updated styling, new technology, and a more spacious interior. Let's dive into both of these SUVs so you know which one you should purchase.
Key Takeaways:
- Ford introduces the new off-road-ready Tremor trim to the Explorer lineup for '26.
- The Explorer offers more passenger space, towing capacity, and engine power than its competitor.
- Subaru's Outback gets a glow-up inside and out for this model year.
What's Changed in Both SUVs in 2026?
Ford adds the Tremor model to the Explorer's lineup. Its lifted suspension, 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, rear limited-slip differential, and other off-road upgrades expand the Explorer's rough-housing capabilities without sacrificing its family-friendly nature. Explorer pricing for 2026 is:
- Active: $40,260
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,760
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
The Outback, meanwhile, is a new animal with updated exterior and interior styling and additional cargo space. Its trims are:
- Premium: $34,995
- Limited: $41,715
- Limited XT: $44,365
- Wilderness: $44,995
- Touring: $45,395
- Touring XT: $47,995
Under the Hood of the 2026 Ford Explorer and Subaru Outback
The Explorer gives buyers a wider range of performance depending on trim level. Active, ST-Line, Tremor, and Platinum models are powered by a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. Drivers wanting even more performance can move to the ST, or opt for the available upgrade on Platinum, where a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 delivers substantially more power. Every Explorer pairs its engine with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offers either standard rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive.
The Outback also offers two engine choices, although both produce less power than the Explorer's options. Most trims use a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder, while Wilderness and XT models receive a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 260 horsepower. Every Outback comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's standard all-wheel-drive system.
Explorer Towing Capacity vs Subaru Outback Max
Families who tow recreational toys will find the Explorer to be the stronger choice. Properly equipped with the available Class III Trailer Tow Package, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds. The redesigned Outback tops out at 3,500 pounds with its turbocharged engine.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Subaru Outback |
| Standard 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine or optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine |
Standard 2.5-liter engine or optional 2.4-liter turbo engine |
| 10-speed automatic transmission |
CVT |
| RWD or AWD |
AWD |
| 5,000-pound towing limit |
3,500 pound towing capacity limit |
How Do Both Rank in Space and Everyday Comfort?
The Explorer seats up to seven and features soft-touch materials, a sleek dash, and sliding second-row seats that make accessing the third row a no-brainer. While the rear-most seats are best suited for children, they provide flexibility that many two-row SUVs may not offer.
The redesigned Outback features a more upscale interior than before. Subaru adds higher-quality materials, physical climate controls, and a new dual-screen digital display while raising the roof around two inches. The changes improve rear-seat headroom and increase cargo space behind the second row by about two cubic feet.
Top Tech in the Explorer and Outback
Every Explorer features a 13.2-inch touchscreen running Ford Digital Experience, Google Built-In, Amazon integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. When parked, occupants can even stream movies, browse the internet, or play games directly through the system.
The Outback includes a 12.1-inch touchscreen featuring an updated interface with a convenient quick-access menu bar. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and cloud-based voice recognition also come standard across the lineup.
Which Family SUV Comes Out on Top?
The Explorer delivers more of what many families need. If you're looking for one SUV that can handle just about everything for everyone, it is the stronger overall choice. Contact us today at Banner Ford of Mendeville to see it in person!