2025 vs. 2026 Ford Explorer: What Changed — and Which One Should You Buy in East Texas?

If you’re shopping for a Ford Explorer you’re probably seeing both 2025 and 2026 models on the market and wondering: What’s actually different? The good news: Ford kept what Explorer drivers love (space, towing capability, family-ready comfort) and refined the details that matter most.

• Choose a 2025 Ford Explorer if you want the big refresh features (newer cabin feel + modern infotainment) and you find the right value on available inventory. 

• Choose a 2026 Ford Explorer if you want the newest Explorer Tremor off-road flavor and an upgraded BlueCruise experience that adds more hands-free capability on approved highways. 

  

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Table of Contents

1. What stays the same (and why it matters)

2. What’s new (or improved) for 2025

3. What’s new for 2026

4. Trims to know: Active, ST-Line, Platinum, ST — plus Tremor

5. Technology & driver assistance changes

6. Performance, towing, and everyday usability

7. Which Explorer is better for your lifestyle in Kilgore / Longview / Tyler / Henderson?

8. Quick FAQs

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1) What Stays the Same: Ford Explorer’s Core Strengths

Both the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer continue to deliver what makes this SUV a favorite for East Texas families and road-trippers:

• Three-row flexibility for carpools, weekend travel, and sports seasons

• Towing capability up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, with the Class III Tow Package standard on all 2026 models (and commonly featured across the lineup) 

• Available performance-oriented trims (hello, Explorer ST) and road-trip comfort

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2) 2025 Ford Explorer Updates: The “Big Refresh Feel”

The 2025 Explorer is the one that brought the most noticeable “step forward” in the cabin experience.

A more premium interior vibe

Ford highlights a redesigned interior, a new color palette, and available comfort upgrades like multicontour massaging seats and ambient lighting on certain trims. 

A major infotainment jump (Android-based “Digital Experience”)

The 2025 Explorer is widely recognized as the first Ford-branded vehicle to roll out Ford’s newer Android-powered infotainment experience, bringing a more app-forward interface and Google built-ins (like Maps and Assistant), while still supporting wireless smartphone connectivity. 

Bottom line: If your top priority is a modern cabin + updated tech experience, the 2025 Explorer is the year that really set the tone. 

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3) 2026 Ford Explorer Updates: The “Capability + Tech Refinement” Year

The 2026 Explorer builds on what 2025 started—then adds a couple of headline upgrades that will matter to certain buyers.

New: Explorer Tremor

Ford introduces the Explorer Tremor for drivers who want a more adventure-ready Explorer. Ford positions Tremor as the choice for people who want to explore tougher paths, and the official specs show Tremor-specific capability details like increased ground clearance and improved approach/departure angles compared to other trims. 

 

Enhanced BlueCruise (hands-free highway driving gets smarter)

Ford’s 2026 Explorer page specifically calls out BlueCruise enhancements, including Automatic Lane Change that can help manage lane changes without needing you to touch the turn signal (on approved highways, with driver monitoring). 

Bottom line: 2026 is about getting the newest trim option (Tremor) and taking another step forward in hands-free highway comfort. 

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4) Ford Explorer Trims at a Glance: What to Shop

Here’s a simple way to think about the lineup when you’re shopping All Star Ford Kilgore inventory:

• Explorer Active – Great all-around value for daily driving in Kilgore and Longview

• Explorer ST-Line – Sporty style upgrades without going full performance

• Explorer Platinum – Premium comfort, upscale features, “family road trip” luxury feel

• Explorer ST – The performance pick, with up to 400 hp available 

• Explorer Tremor (2026) – The newest off-road-inspired option 

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5) Technology & Driver Assistance: What You’ll Actually Notice 

Screens + interface

2025 models call out a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Ford’s newer Digital Experience across key trims. 

Highway driving assistance

• 2026 spotlights upgraded BlueCruise features like Automatic Lane Change. 

• If you do a lot of highway time between Kilgore ↔ Tyler or Longview ↔ Henderson, this is one of the most meaningful daily-life upgrades.

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6) Performance, Towing, and Real-World Driving in East Texas

Whether you’re commuting, hauling weekend gear, or planning lake trips, Explorer remains a strong “do-it-all” SUV.

• Towing: 2026 models list 5,000 lbs max towing, with the Class III Tow Package standard across the lineup. 

• Engines: The 2026 lineup includes a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, with an available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on certain trims. 

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7) Which One Should You Buy: 2025 or 2026?

Choose a 2025 Explorer if you want:

• The refreshed interior + modern infotainment experience

• Strong value on available inventory (great when you find the “right” trim and price)

• A daily driver that feels current without needing the newest model year 

Choose a 2026 Explorer if you want:

• The new Tremor trim for a more rugged Explorer vibe 

• The newest BlueCruise improvements for highway drives around East Texas 

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8) Ford Explorer Quick FAQs 

Is the 2026 Ford Explorer a redesign?
No—2026 builds on the 2025 updates and adds key refinements like the new Tremor and enhanced BlueCruise features. 

What’s the biggest difference between 2025 and 2026 Explorer?
For most shoppers: 2026 adds the Tremor trim and highlights BlueCruise enhancements like Automatic Lane Change. 

How much can a Ford Explorer tow?
Properly equipped Explorers can tow up to 5,000 lbs, and Ford lists the Class III Tow Package as standard on all 2026 Explorer models. 

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Shop the Ford Explorer in Kilgore, TX at All Star Ford Kilgore

If you’re comparing the 2025 vs. 2026 Ford Explorer in Kilgore, Longview, Tyler, or Henderson, the easiest next step is a quick side-by-side drive. Some people love the value play of a 2025; others want the newest 2026 features—especially Tremor and the latest BlueCruise upgrades.

All Star Ford Kilgore is here to help you:

• Compare trims in person

• Value your trade

• Explore financing options

• Find an Explorer that fits your family and your East Texas lifestyle
  
   

  What’s the difference between the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer?

  The 2026 Ford Explorer builds on the 2025 updates and adds the new Explorer Tremor trim plus enhanced BlueCruisefeatures like Automatic Lane Change (when equipped). 

  Is the 2026 Ford Explorer good for families?

  Yes. The 2026 Explorer offers three-row seating (up to 7 passengers), strong cargo flexibility, and available driver-assist features designed for highway travel. 

  How much can a 2026 Ford Explorer tow?

  When properly equipped, the 2026 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs. 

  TL;DR:
  If you want the newest options and hands-free highway upgrades, go 2026. If you want strong value and a refreshed Explorer feel, 2025 can be a smart buy—especially when the right trim is available.

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  Ready to Compare Explorers in Person?

  For current pricing, specials, or to schedule a test drive, contact All Star Ford Kilgore today. We proudly serve Kilgore, Longview, Tyler, and Henderson, Texas, and we’ll help you compare trims, features, and payments to find the Explorer that fits your life.