2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Review - 1 MAJOR FLAW!

TL;DR

The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is a near-perfect family SUV with 400hp, but its wireless-only Apple CarPlay is the one major flaw.

Key Points

• 1.The Tremor is essentially a fixed Explorer ST with better suspension. It uses the same 3L EcoBoost V6 producing 400hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, but replaces the ST's overly stiff suspension with a softer tune and a 1-inch lift — the exact complaint reviewers had with the ST.
• 2.Wireless-only Apple CarPlay is the single major flaw. There is no wired option; the USB port forces a USB tether that blocks other connected devices like an Osmo, and hotspot conflicts cause constant device-forgetting and reconnection hassles.
• 3.The Tremor package itself adds relatively little over a standard Explorer. Buyers get skid plates, tow hooks, colored accents, auxiliary grille lights, orange stitching, and the 1-inch lift — but the big 400hp engine upgrade costs roughly $13,000 extra on top.
• 4.Pricing starts at $59,600 CAD and this tester comes in at $76,675 CAD. Reviewers note this puts it squarely in Explorer ST price territory, making the softer suspension a meaningful upgrade over the ST at a similar price point.
• 5.Interior quality and tech are highlights with almost no complaints. The standard-sized infotainment screen, physical volume knob, hard climate buttons, 360-degree camera with accurate tire-track overlay, orange stitching, and Blue Cruise 1.5 hands-free driving all earned praise.
• 6.The Tremor's off-road credentials are functional but the audience may not use them. Reviewers note the rear-wheel-biased AWD, valve-stem-accented wheels for easy tire deflation ID, and skid plates, but acknowledge most buyers will likely use it purely as a family hauler rather than go off-road.