The Ford Explorer has long been a familiar sight on Southern California roads. It’s the SUV families rely on for school drop-offs during the week and beach days or weekend road trips. For 2026, the Explorer builds on that versatility with updates that simplify daily driving and add reassurance when the road leads beyond the city.
This year’s updates focus on two priorities that matter most to SoCal drivers: added stability when the road gets rough and less stress when the freeway gets crowded.
Meet the New Explorer Tremor
The biggest update for 2026 is the introduction of the Explorer Tremor, a new trim designed for drivers who want to explore a little farther off paved roads without sacrificing family comfort.
The Tremor sits slightly higher than other Explorers and comes equipped with tires designed for dirt, sand, and uneven terrain. Protective panels underneath help shield key components when you venture onto rougher paths.
In everyday terms, that means easier travel on gravel roads, campground trails, or beach access routes. It also includes a smart all-wheel-drive system that automatically directs power to the wheels with the most grip. You don’t have to think about it; the Explorer adjusts on its own when roads turn slick, sandy, or muddy.
When you want extra muscle, the Tremor can be equipped with a powerful turbocharged V6 engine. The result is strong acceleration and plenty of power for merging, passing, or towing without feeling strained.
A Smarter Way to Handle Freeway Driving
Southern California commutes can be exhausting, especially on busy stretches of the 405. The 2026 Explorer introduces BlueCruise 1.5, Ford’s latest hands-free highway driving system, designed to make long drives easier and less tiring.
On approved highways, BlueCruise allows the Explorer to help steer, accelerate, and brake while you keep your eyes on the road. New for 2026, the system can even change lanes on its own when needed, like passing slower traffic or moving away from an ending lane.
It also subtly shifts the Explorer within its lane to provide extra space when driving alongside large trucks, creating a more relaxed, natural driving experience on crowded freeways.
Comfortable Space for People and Gear
Inside, the 2026 Explorer continues to focus on comfort and simplicity. Every model features a large central touchscreen and a fully digital driver display, so navigation, music, and vehicle information are easy to access. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard, so your phone connects without wires.
Ford has also improved seat cushioning throughout the cabin, making longer drives more comfortable for everyone. Upgraded trims include quilted seating and front seats with a massage feature, a welcome touch for commuters and road-trip drivers.
Ready to Tow and Go
Every 2026 Explorer comes standard with a Class III Trailer Tow package, enabling a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Whether you’re pulling a small boat, jet skis, or a trailer for a mountain getaway, the Explorer is ready without extra upgrades.
See the 2026 Explorer at South Bay Ford
From the sporty ST-Line to the refined Platinum and the adventurous new Tremor, there’s a 2026 Explorer built for how you live and drive.
Visit South Bay Ford in Hawthorne, just off the 405 at Rosecrans, to test drive the 2026 Ford Explorer and see how these updates can make your everyday drive more comfortable, capable, and enjoyable.
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