2026 vs. 2025 Ford Explorer: Chicagoland’s Guide to the Better Buy

Shopping SUVs in Chicagoland means dealing with traffic, winter roads, and long hauls around the suburbs, so you want a rig that can handle real life. Ford of Homewood has both the 2025 and 2026 Explorer on deck, which means you get to decide if the latest updates are worth jumping into right now.

What’s New for the 2026 Ford Explorer

Ford sharpened the Explorer lineup this year with one major addition: the new Tremor trim. It comes ready for trails with a lifted suspension, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, underbody protection, and all-terrain tires on special 18-inch wheels. That gives the 2026 model a clear advantage if you enjoy forest roads in Wisconsin or snow-packed parking lots in Oak Lawn. Meanwhile, the core lineup carries over the big interior and tech updates that arrived last year, so you still get the cleaner cabin, upgraded screens, and polished styling.

This is the gear that makes the 2026 lineup feel fresh the moment you step inside:

• Tremor trim with off-road tuned suspension
• Limited-slip rear axle
• Revised interior layout
• Latest infotainment software
• Updated exterior touches
• Carryover engines with proven performance

2026 vs. 2025 Ford Explorer: Comparing Performance and Capability

Both the 2025 and 2026 Explorer keep their strong range of powertrains, including the lively 2.3L EcoBoost and the muscular 3.0L EcoBoost. Chicagoland drivers will enjoy plenty of punch for merging on the Dan Ryan or towing toys to the lake. The 5,000-pound towing capacity stays consistent, and you can equip Intelligent 4WD for winter traction that handles slush on Cicero Avenue without drama. The Tremor trim steps in as the standout for 2026, delivering the best control and stability on uneven terrain.

These performance elements help you move with confidence every time you roll out of the driveway:

• 2.3L EcoBoost engine availability
• Available 3.0L EcoBoost on upper trims
• 5,000-pound towing capability
• Intelligent 4WD system
• Off-road enhancements on Tremor
• Smooth and predictable ride quality

2026 Ford Explorer: Interior Space, Comfort, and Tech

Ford’s cabin upgrades last year transformed the Explorer into a more refined family machine. Both the 2025 and 2026 models share the cleaner dash design, larger screens, and improved material quality. Seating for up to seven still makes weekend escapes easy, and the 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space gives you room for everything from Costco runs to folding chairs for summer festivals. The 2026 lineup keeps its tech edge with Ford Digital Experience and improved connectivity, and upper trims offer BlueCruise hands-free driving for long highway stretches.

Here is the comfort and tech setup that keeps your crew relaxed and entertained:

• Available massaging front seats
• Up to seven-passenger seating
• Ford Digital Experience infotainment suite
• BlueCruise hands-free driving on select trims
• Ambient interior lighting
• Large digital displays with crisp graphics

Which Explorer Is the Better Deal for You?

Both models deliver capability, comfort, and value, but the 2026 Explorer gives you more depth if you plan to equip the right features. The Tremor trim alone makes the new model stand out for drivers who venture off pavement or want extra versatility for Midwest travel. If you want the freshest look, the latest tech, or plan to push into winter trails, the 2026 is the easy winner. If you focus on price and want proven performance with the recent design upgrades already in place, a 2025 model at Ford of Homewood might be your best bet. Your lifestyle and driving habits will determine which one hits the mark.

These points can help you zero in on the version that fits your life in Chicagoland:

• 2026 Tremor availability
• Strong value on remaining 2025 inventory
• Same powertrains across both years
• Shared interior and tech design
• Best choice depends on how you use your SUV

If you want the latest adventure-ready trim and the most advanced tech, go 2026. If price takes priority and you like the current feature mix, the 2025 Explorer still hits hard. Either way, Ford of Homewood has the selection and local expertise to help you drive the one that fits your everyday life.