What to Know About the 2026 Ford Explorer

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Makes Sense for Rice Lake, WI Drivers The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® is the trim that speaks to drivers who want more than a comfortable three-row SUV, but still need the practicality that makes Explorer® such a trusted name. Around Rice Lake, WI, that balance matters. A vehicle may spend one day carrying passengers and groceries, another day heading toward a cabin road, and another pulling gear for a weekend away. Tremor® is built for that kind of mixed-use life because it adds real capability hardware while keeping the familiar comfort, technology, and cargo flexibility of the Explorer® lineup. For shoppers researching from home, the key is understanding that Tremor® is not simply an appearance package. It brings off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates, and a model-exclusive Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. Those details matter when pavement gives way to gravel, when a driveway has uneven approaches, or when a recreational route asks more from the rear axle and suspension. Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, serving Rice Lake, Almena, and Clear Lake, WI, can help online shoppers compare Tremor® against the other Explorer® trims and decide whether this capability-focused model fits daily needs. Built for Real Roads, Not Just Perfect Roads Rice Lake area drivers understand that road conditions can vary quickly from town streets to county highways to packed gravel approaches. The Explorer® Tremor® is especially appealing because it gives drivers more confidence in those in-between situations where a standard SUV may feel capable, but not specifically prepared. The increased ride height helps with rougher surfaces, while the off-road-tuned suspension is designed for more control when the surface is uneven. The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle is one of the trim’s most meaningful upgrades. Rather than relying only on software or styling cues, Tremor® adds hardware that helps manage traction when conditions are less predictable. For a driver who visits lake properties, campgrounds, trail access areas, or rural job sites, that can make the Explorer® Tremor® feel like the more logical fit. It remains easy to drive around town, but it is also more comfortable leaving the clean pavement behind. Powertrain Flexibility Adds to the Appeal The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® comes standard with the 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, which delivers 300 hp and provides a responsive foundation for commuting, errands, and family travel. That engine keeps the vehicle feeling lively without forcing shoppers into the most performance-focused trim. For drivers who want more muscle, Tremor® is also available with the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine, offering up to 385 hp. That available engine gives the trim another layer of confidence for passing, towing, and carrying passengers with gear. Maximum towing capacity for the 2027 Explorer® lineup is 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, which is useful for small trailers, recreational gear, and outdoor equipment. Tremor® shoppers should look closely at how each configuration aligns with towing needs, cargo habits, and passenger use. The point is not only what the vehicle can do at its limit, but how relaxed and confident it feels during normal use. Three-Row Space Without Giving Up Capability One reason the Explorer® Tremor® stands out is that it does not ask families to give up everyday utility to gain more capability. It still has three rows, standard second-row captain’s chairs, and a practical cargo layout. With all seats in place, the Explorer® provides 16.3 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row. When more room is needed, Tremor® offers up to 85.3 cu ft of maximum cargo volume, giving drivers space for luggage, sports equipment, supplies, tools, and larger household items. That flexibility is especially valuable for families with active schedules. A smaller SUV may be easier to park, but cargo space can run out quickly when passengers and gear are both part of the plan. A truck may offer open-bed utility, but enclosed seating and protected cargo space are often more practical for daily life. Tremor® lands in the middle with the passenger comfort of an SUV and the added confidence of trail-ready hardware. What Tremor® Adds That Shoppers Should Notice Torsen® limited-slip rear axle: Helps improve traction management when surfaces become uneven or loose. Off-road-tuned suspension: Supports more confidence on rougher routes without sacrificing everyday SUV usability. Increased ride height: Gives Tremor® a more capable stance and added clearance for rural approaches. Underbody protection: Front and rear deflector plates add practical protection for off-pavement driving. Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine: Adds stronger performance for drivers who want more power from Tremor®. Technology Still Matters in a Capability Trim While Tremor® is capability-focused, it still belongs to a modern Explorer® lineup built around technology and connectivity. The Ford Digital Experience is designed to bring familiar digital life into the vehicle with useful apps and display functionality. Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology supports driver confidence with helpful driver-assist features, and available packages can further enhance comfort and convenience. For 2027, Tremor® models with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine can add the Sun & Sound Package, which includes an upgraded B&O® Sound System, massaging front seats, and a power moonroof. That matters because some shoppers assume a rugged trim must feel stripped down. Tremor® proves otherwise. It can be configured as a capable family SUV with the comfort and audio quality many drivers want for longer drives across northwestern Wisconsin. Who Should Choose the Explorer® Tremor®? The Explorer® Tremor® is a smart choice for drivers who like the idea of added capability but do not need the full performance focus of the ST or the luxury emphasis of the Platinum™. It is also a strong alternative for shoppers who have considered two-row adventure SUVs but need the extra passenger flexibility of a third row. If your week includes family transportation and your free time includes boat landings, rural properties, gravel roads, or gear-heavy hobbies, Tremor® fits naturally. It is also a good choice for buyers who plan to keep an SUV for varied use over time. Family needs change, hobbies change, commutes change, and road surfaces are not always predictable. Tremor® gives you a broader comfort zone. It is not only about handling the most rugged outing; it is about feeling better prepared for the many small challenges that come with real driving. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® have a V6 engine? The 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine is standard on Tremor®, and the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine is available. The available V6 gives Tremor® up to 385 hp. How much cargo space does the Explorer® Tremor® offer? The Explorer® Tremor® provides 16.3 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row and up to 85.3 cu ft of maximum cargo volume when the rear seating area is folded for larger items. Is the Explorer® Tremor® only for off-road driving? No. Tremor® is well suited for daily driving, family use, commuting, and longer trips. Its off-road-focused features simply add more confidence when the route becomes rougher or less predictable. Why choose Tremor® instead of Platinum™ or ST? Choose Tremor® if added capability is the priority. Platinum™ focuses more on luxury comfort, while ST focuses on performance. Tremor® is the practical middle ground for drivers who want three-row versatility with real off-pavement hardware. *Image may not be actual model Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer Near Cumberland, WI The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to do what this well-known three-row SUV has done for decades: give families, commuters, weekend travelers, and active households a confident blend of space, power, technology, and everyday usefulness. For shoppers comparing midsize SUVs, the Explorer stands out because it brings a rear-drive-based feel, strong turbocharged engine choices, a comfortable cabin, and modern infotainment features without losing sight of practical needs like towing, passenger flexibility, and cargo room. At Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, we know SUV shoppers want more than a quick feature list. A vehicle like the Explorer needs to fit real routines, from school pickups and work commutes to road trips, errands, home projects, and towing small recreational gear. The 2027 Ford Explorer is designed around that kind of versatility, and its trim lineup gives buyers several ways to prioritize value, style, rugged capability, premium comfort, or performance. For drivers serving Turtle Lake, Rice Lake, and Almena, it remains one of the most recognizable and well-rounded Ford SUV options to watch. A Familiar SUV With Modern Confidence The Ford Explorer has a long history as a family-focused SUV, but the 2027 model feels very much like a current-generation vehicle. It offers three rows of seating, a composed ride, and useful convenience features across the lineup. The cabin is practical, with generous first-row and second-row space, easy-to-use controls, and a layout built for daily driving rather than unnecessary complexity. The third row is best suited for children or shorter passengers, which is common in many midsize three-row SUVs, but it adds flexibility when carpool duty or extra guests come along. One of the Explorer's strengths is balance. It can feel smooth and predictable during routine driving, yet it also offers more personality than many family SUVs. The rear-wheel-drive-based architecture helps create a more athletic feel from behind the wheel, while available all-wheel drive adds extra confidence when traction needs change. For shoppers who want an SUV that does not feel anonymous, the Explorer brings a welcome sense of character. Powertrain Options and Performance The 2027 Explorer lineup is expected to continue with two main engine choices. Most trims use a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That may sound like a modest engine for a three-row SUV, but in practice it provides strong acceleration for daily driving, highway merging, and carrying passengers. It is also the better choice for many shoppers focused on fuel economy and long-term value. For drivers who want a stronger performance edge, the Explorer ST features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with up to 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, depending on emissions certification. This engine gives the Explorer a much quicker, more responsive feel and makes the ST one of the more exciting choices in the mainstream three-row SUV segment. A 10-speed automatic transmission is used across the lineup, and rear-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive helps shoppers match the SUV to personal driving preferences. Standard turbo-four engine: Strong 300-horsepower output with solid everyday efficiency. Available turbo V-6: A performance-focused option for drivers who want quicker acceleration. 10-speed automatic transmission: Designed to support smooth power delivery across city and highway driving. Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive: Choice of drivetrain allows a shopper to prioritize driving feel or added traction. ST performance model: The sportiest Explorer trim, built for drivers who want more excitement from a family SUV. What Is New for 2027? The biggest expected update for 2027 is the availability of a Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. This package performs trim a darker, more aggressive personality with black exterior accents, black wheels, amber-colored running lights, and unique ST Sinister badging. It is a smart addition for drivers who already like the Explorer ST's performance but want a more distinctive look. Beyond that package, the 2027 Explorer is not expected to receive major changes, which is not necessarily a drawback. Recent updates already gave the Explorer a more modern cabin, improved technology, and a cleaner overall presentation. For many shoppers, a carryover model year means Ford is refining a formula that already works well. Interior Comfort and Passenger Space Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer focuses on comfort, storage, and usability. The first row offers supportive seating and a commanding view of the road, while the second row provides good room for adults or child seats. Many models come with second-row captain's chairs, which make access to the third row easier and create a more open cabin feel. A second-row bench may be available for shoppers who want maximum seating capacity. The Explorer's interior may not feel as plush as some luxury-leaning competitors in upper trims, but it succeeds as a practical family space. Soft-touch materials in key areas, convenient storage spots, multiple charging ports, and a flexible cargo area help make the cabin easy to live with. With the rear rows folded, the Explorer opens up useful cargo volume for luggage, sports equipment, home improvement supplies, or larger everyday items. Technology That Fits Modern Driving Technology is a major part of the 2027 Explorer's appeal. A large central touchscreen is standard, and Ford's current infotainment experience supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through compatible devices. Available Google and Amazon integration helps make maps, voice commands, apps, and connected services feel more natural. When the vehicle is parked, select entertainment and browsing features can also add convenience during charging stops, appointments, or waiting periods. Families and busy professionals will appreciate the Explorer's practical connectivity. Multiple USB ports, available premium audio, digital displays, and available driver convenience upgrades help the cabin feel current. Depending on trim, shoppers can look for features such as a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, a 360-degree camera system, a hands-free power liftgate, heated seating, a heated steering wheel, and a head-up display. Safety and Driver Assistance The 2027 Ford Explorer is expected to continue offering a strong group of standard and available driver-assistance features. Standard systems generally include helpful technology such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. These features are designed to support awareness and help reduce stress during everyday driving. Available upgrades may include front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, self-parking assistance, and Ford's hands-free highway driving technology on compatible mapped roads. For shoppers comparing family SUVs, this level of driver support can be a major advantage. Safety ratings can vary by model year and configuration, so it is always wise to review current NHTSA and IIHS information when the 2027 model becomes available. Automatic emergency braking: Helps alert the driver and can assist with braking in certain situations. Lane-keeping assist: Supports smoother lane discipline during highway travel. Blind-spot monitoring: Helps improve awareness during lane changes. Available 360-degree camera: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight areas easier. Available hands-free highway driving: Adds convenience on compatible pre-mapped roads. Towing, Fuel Economy, and Everyday Utility The 2027 Explorer remains a capable choice for light towing. Properly equipped models are expected to tow up to 5,000 pounds, and a Class III towing package is included on Explorer models. That gives the SUV practical capability for small trailers, personal watercraft, utility trailers, or other recreational gear, while trailer sway control helps support stability. Fuel economy depends on engine, drivetrain, and trim. The turbocharged four-cylinder is the more efficient option and can deliver strong highway mileage for a three-row SUV, while the turbocharged V-6 trades some efficiency for stronger acceleration. For many shoppers, the four-cylinder engine will be the sweet spot. For performance-minded drivers, the ST's extra power may be worth the trade-off. Which 2027 Ford Explorer Trim Should You Consider? The best Explorer trim depends on driving priorities. The Active trim is likely to appeal to value-focused shoppers who want core Explorer strengths without moving into higher equipment levels. The ST-Line is a strong choice for drivers who like sporty styling but do not need the full performance of the ST. The Tremor adds a more rugged personality for shoppers who expect light trail use or want a tougher look. Platinum models lean toward comfort and premium features, while the ST delivers the most exciting performance. Active: A practical starting point with strong standard power and family-friendly features. ST-Line: Sporty appearance with the efficient turbo-four engine. Tremor: Rugged styling and capability-focused equipment. Platinum: More comfort, technology, and upscale convenience features. ST: The performance pick with the strongest engine and boldest driving character. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a good family SUV? Yes. The 2027 Explorer offers three-row seating, strong engine choices, useful cargo space, modern infotainment, and a wide range of driver-assistance features. The first and second rows are especially comfortable, while the third row works best for children or shorter passengers. What is the main update for the 2027 Ford Explorer? The key expected update is the available Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. It adds black exterior details, black wheels, amber running lights, and unique badging for a more aggressive performance-inspired look. How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow? When properly equipped, the 2027 Explorer is expected to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The included Class III towing package adds useful hardware such as a hitch, wiring harness, and trailer sway control. Which Explorer engine is best? The turbocharged four-cylinder is a great fit for most shoppers because it offers strong horsepower with better efficiency. The turbocharged V-6 is best for drivers who want maximum performance, especially in the Explorer ST. Does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer all-wheel drive? Yes. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many configurations, and all-wheel drive is available for added traction and confidence. Some trims may include all-wheel drive depending on configuration. Final Thoughts on the 2027 Ford Explorer The 2027 Ford Explorer remains a smart choice for shoppers who want a three-row SUV with power, practicality, and personality. It is comfortable enough for daily family use, capable enough for towing and road trips, and modern enough to satisfy drivers who expect large screens, wireless smartphone integration, and helpful safety technology. The new Sinister package also gives the ST trim extra visual attitude, making the performance model even more appealing. While some competitors may offer a more luxurious cabin or a roomier third row, the Explorer answers with strong engines, confident road manners, meaningful towing ability, and a broad trim lineup. For anyone researching a midsize three-row SUV that can handle busy routines while still feeling engaging to drive, the 2027 Ford Explorer deserves a close look. Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors - BlueCruise Confidence in the 2026 Ford Explorer for Turtle Lake, WI Drives The stretch of highway between Turtle Lake and Cumberland is a perfect place to appreciate how today’s driver-assistance systems reduce fatigue and help you arrive fresh. In the 2026 Ford Explorer, available BlueCruise adds that extra layer of confidence with hands-free highway driving assistance on approved roadways. It’s not a gimmick — it’s the kind of thoughtful tech that lets you settle in, monitor the road, and enjoy the ride while the system helps manage steering, braking, and acceleration under your supervision. We spend a lot of time helping shoppers understand how to choose and use advanced driver-assist systems, and BlueCruise is often the feature that turns skeptics into fans. With clear alerts and intuitive prompts, it’s easy to know when you’re in hands-free mode and when you’re back to conventional driving. If you’re planning regular trips along US-8 or US-63, BlueCruise support can be a welcome companion — especially when you just want a calmer, more consistent cruise to your destination. Importantly, BlueCruise does not replace the driver — it supports you. The Explorer’s camera-based attention monitoring and clear driver prompts keep you engaged. You’ll still steer and manage every moment when the system isn’t available, but when the conditions are right, easing your grip for a stretch of hands-free driving can make a meaningful difference in how you feel after a long day. What BlueCruise Does Well BlueCruise pairs naturally with the Explorer’s fundamentals — confident power, stable ride, and smart packaging — to create a well-rounded road-trip partner. When you combine Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering and hands-free capability where available, your routine highway miles feel more relaxed, yet controlled. And because Explorer trims like Platinum and ST can be equipped with BlueCruise, you can match that tech to the performance and comfort level you prefer. Hands-free zones: Operates on compatible, mapped highways where conditions allow Clear prompts: Visual and audible cues make activation and status obvious Driver monitoring: Camera-based attention checks to help keep you engaged Smooth control: Helps manage speed, distance, and steering in hands-free mode We’ve found that drivers appreciate how naturally BlueCruise slots into their habits. It doesn’t demand you change how you drive — it simply lends support during those long, uninterrupted stretches. If you’re heading to Turtle Lake or making the loop through Rice Lake and Almena, it’s exactly the kind of technology that brings more ease to the drive without getting in the way. Explorer Trims That Pair Nicely with BlueCruise Choosing the right trim is about matching features to your routine. The Explorer Platinum makes BlueCruise available alongside comfort upgrades like heated, ventilated, and even massaging front seats — a combination that smooths out long family trips. The Explorer ST goes a different direction, pairing BlueCruise availability with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, and performance brakes. If you want both strength and serenity on the highway, that duo delivers an appealing balance. Meanwhile, the Explorer ST-Line includes a 360-Degree Camera as standard — a great complement for those who value added situational awareness in town — and you can equip BlueCruise on the right package. No matter which path you take, the Explorer lineup makes it easy to blend the safety and convenience tech you want with the attitude and comfort you like. Everyday Practicality Still Matters BlueCruise is a highlight, but it’s only one part of why the 2026 Explorer works so well for local families. With up to seven seats and 85.8 cubic feet of max cargo volume, it handles school carpools, hockey gear, and weekend projects without breaking stride. The rear-wheel-drive foundation and available Intelligent 4WD strike a sweet spot between efficiency, stability, and all-weather confidence. And if towing a small camper or boat is on your list, the 5,000-pound maximum rating is the kind of capability you’ll feel good about using. Room for people: Comfortable three-row layout for growing families Room for cargo: Flatten the rear rows for a generous, squared-off load floor Towing confidence: 5,000-lb max rating to bring more of your plans along Tech that fits: Ford Digital Experience and available B&O® audio for easy, enjoyable drives When you add it up, the Explorer brings a genuinely useful set of tools to daily life — and then layers BlueCruise on top to make the long stretches feel less like work. That’s a smart formula for families balancing routines around Turtle Lake and quick drives to Cumberland for school, errands, or a night out. Frequently Asked Questions: Is BlueCruise standard on the 2026 Explorer? BlueCruise is available on select trims and packages. We can walk you through which configurations include it and how plan activation works. Can I use BlueCruise on every highway? BlueCruise operates in compatible mapped areas and when driving conditions allow. You’ll see clear prompts when the system is ready for hands-free mode. Does BlueCruise work in traffic? BlueCruise can assist with lane centering and speed management, and hands-free operation may be available on approved stretches — even in heavier flow — but engagement always depends on conditions and mapping. Which Explorer trim should I choose for highway commuting? If you prioritize comfort and calm, consider Platinum for its available massaging seats and BlueCruise availability. If you’d like more performance, explore ST with available BlueCruise — it blends confident power with highway assistance. At Don Johnson's Cumberland Motors, we set up personalized test drives so you can feel how BlueCruise fits your routine. We also offer quick technology refreshers to help you use the features you choose with confidence. We’re proud to be serving Turtle Lake, Rice Lake, and Almena, WI with a team that understands local routes and daily needs. If you’re curious about BlueCruise, want help comparing Explorer trims, or you’re ready to value your trade and get moving, reach out and we’ll make it easy to take the next step. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information