What's New for the 2027 Ford Explorer: Tremor, Platinum V6, and New Colors

The 2027 Ford Explorer brings some of the biggest changes the family three-row segment has seen in years — headlined by a brand-new Explorer Tremor off-road trim that didn’t exist on the 2026. If you’re shopping a 2026 Explorer on the lot right now and trying to decide whether to buy today or wait, or if you’re driving a 2022 through 2025 Explorer and thinking about your next one, this page is for you.

Here’s everything that’s new, everything that’s changed, and what got removed from the 2027 Ford Explorer lineup.

What is the biggest change for the 2027 Ford Explorer?

The biggest change for the 2027 Ford Explorer is the addition of the all-new Tremor off-road trim, which brings real off-road hardware — P265/65R18 all-terrain tires, TORSEN limited-slip rear axle, front and rear underbody deflector plates, off-road auxiliary grille lights, and unique Tremor styling — to the midsize three-row segment for the first time on the Explorer platform.

Beyond the Tremor, Ford added four other meaningful updates for 2027: the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is newly available on Platinum series, two new paint colors join the lineup (Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat), a new Slick Roof Conversion option deletes the standard roof rails for a cleaner profile, and the Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO) is now optional on Tremor, ST, and Platinum series.

Is the Explorer Tremor a new trim for 2027?

Yes. The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor is brand-new for this model year. There was no Tremor trim on the 2026 Explorer.

The Tremor is 4WD only and offered with two equipment group choices: the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (equipment group 800A — Standard Package) or the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (equipment group 801A — Ultimate Package). Both are paired with a 10-Speed Automatic transmission. Standard Tremor equipment includes a TORSEN limited-slip rear axle, all-terrain tires, front and rear underbody deflector plates, off-road auxiliary grille lights, blackout headlamp and taillamp treatment, unique front tow hooks, Miko Suede seating with Electric Spice stitching, B&O 10-speaker audio, and the full Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 safety suite.

For a full breakdown of the Explorer Tremor — standard equipment, engine choices, optional packages, and how it compares to the Expedition Tremor — see our 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor specs and features guide.

What changed for the 2027 Explorer Platinum?

The biggest 2027 update for the Explorer Platinum is the addition of the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (option 99C) as an available engine. On the 2026 Explorer, the Platinum was built around the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 as its standard engine. For 2027, Platinum buyers now have the choice to step up to the larger 3.0L V6.

Selecting the 3.0L V6 on Platinum unlocks the 3.0L Engine Ultimate Package (600A / YZDAB), which includes the Lux Leather Package (Platinum-badged seats, Premium Leather Seating Surfaces, quilting and stitching on seats and door panels), Chrome Quad Exhaust Tips, 21-inch Dark Alloy-painted Machined Aluminum wheels with P275/45R21 All-Season BSW tires, a 3.31 Non-Limited-Slip Rear Axle, and Electronic Sound Enhancement.

Other Platinum updates for 2027 include the new Slick Roof Conversion availability and the Universal Garage Door Opener as a new optional add-on. If you’ve been Platinum-curious in past years but found the 2.3L turbo four-cylinder underwhelming for the trim’s luxury positioning, the 3.0L V6 option fundamentally changes that calculation for 2027.

What new colors are available for 2027 and what was discontinued?

Ford has added two new paint colors to the 2027 Explorer lineup and discontinued one.

New for 2027:

• Avalanche Gray (DR) — a fresh gray option available across most trim levels
• Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat (RR) — a deep vivid red with a tinted clearcoat finish (extra cost paint)

Discontinued for 2027:

• Space White Metallic (A3)

If you have your heart set on Space White Metallic, your window to order it on a new Explorer closes at the end of the 2026 model year.

What is the new Slick Roof Conversion option?

The Slick Roof Conversion (option 19A) is new for 2027 and available on Active 200A, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum series. It deletes the standard roof rails for a cleaner, lower-profile look and reduced wind noise at highway speeds.

One thing to know: selecting Slick Roof Conversion means the roof-rail crossbars (a dealer-installed option) are not available. If you regularly carry kayaks, bikes, cargo boxes, or rooftop tents, the standard roof-rail configuration is the right call. If you don’t need rack-mounted gear and prefer the cleaner aesthetic, Slick Roof Conversion is a worthwhile option to consider.

What other equipment changes are on the 2027 Explorer?

Several smaller but meaningful changes for 2027:

• Panoramic Vista Roof with Power Shade (option 439) updated — replaces the previous Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade (43H), which is now deleted from the lineup
• Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO) is now optional on Tremor, ST, and Platinum series (option 50C). The 2026 Explorer did not offer this on these trims as a standalone option.
• ST Sinister Package (19G) — new appearance package on the ST that adds 21-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels, 275/45 R21 all-season tires, amber LED Daytime Running Lamps, and a Red ST Badge with Black Outline
• 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Emissions options — new Federal/Non-California Emissions (DGAFS), 50-State Emissions System (425/DGAAE), 50-State Emissions System Not Required (423), and a 50-State Emissions System Exemption for Public Service/Emergency Vehicles (936) all newly available

How has the 2027 Explorer trim lineup changed?

The 2027 trim lineup is Active (100A “Base” and 200A), ST-Line (300A), ST (400A), Platinum (600A), and Tremor (800A/801A). The addition of the Tremor is the most significant lineup change.

A few trim-related availability changes worth knowing:

• Tremor 801A Ultimate Package is new — the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 version of the Tremor with BlueCruise included and additional comfort features
• 3.0L EcoBoost V6 newly available on Platinum series
• Slick Roof Conversion (19A) optional on Active 200A, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum — not available on Tremor
• Universal Garage Door Opener (50C) newly optional on Tremor, ST, and Platinum
• Panoramic Vista Roof with Power Shade (439) now the standard panoramic roof option across the lineup (replacing the deleted Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade)

Should I buy a 2026 now or wait for a 2027?

It depends on what you want and how flexible your timeline is. Here’s an honest framework:

Wait for a 2027 if:

• You want the Explorer Tremor — it does not exist on the 2026 Explorer
• You want a Platinum with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 — this engine combination is new for 2027
• You want one of the new paint colors (Avalanche Gray or Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat)
• You want the new Slick Roof Conversion option
• You want the ST with the new Sinister Package (Gloss Black wheels and Red ST badge treatment)
• Your current vehicle still has life and you’re not in a hurry

Buy a 2026 now if:

• You need the vehicle in the next few months — Ford has not announced a 2027 on-sale date
• You want Space White Metallic paint — it’s discontinued for 2027
• You’re not interested in off-road capability and the standard 2026 Platinum or ST already meets your needs
• Current 2026 incentives or financing offers outweigh the 2027 feature additions for your use case
• Your trade value on your current vehicle is strong right now and waiting could erode it

For most buyers, the right answer is “it depends on which feature you can’t live without.” If you want the Tremor specifically, there is no substitute on the 2026 lot — reserve and wait. If your must-haves are already available in the 2026 Platinum or ST, buying now might be the cleaner play.

Either way, we’re happy to talk through it with you. Come in for a test drive of a current Explorer, we’ll pull a trade value on your current vehicle, and if a 2027 reservation is the right call we’ll get you in line the same day.

2027 Ford Explorer Changes FAQ

Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a full redesign or a refresh?

The 2027 Explorer is a significant model-year update rather than a full ground-up redesign. The biggest changes are the addition of the Tremor trim, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 newly available on Platinum, two new paint colors, the new Slick Roof Conversion option, and the new ST Sinister Package. The core platform carries over from 2026.

When will the 2027 Ford Explorer be available?

Ford has not announced a specific on-sale date for the 2027 Explorer. Updated 2027 Explorer product information was released in May 2026. Jay Malone Ford updates every reservation holder as soon as firm timing is confirmed.

Is the 2027 Explorer Tremor available in 2WD?

No. The 2027 Explorer Tremor is 4WD only. Four-wheel drive is fundamental to the trim and is required for the off-road equipment package.

What paint colors were discontinued from the 2026 Explorer?

Space White Metallic is discontinued for 2027. Avalanche Gray and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat are added as new color options.

Can I get a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 on the 2027 Explorer Platinum?

Yes. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (option 99C) is newly available on the 2027 Explorer Platinum series. Selecting the 3.0L V6 on Platinum unlocks the 3.0L Engine Ultimate Package, which includes Lux Leather, 21-inch Dark Alloy wheels, Chrome Quad Exhaust Tips, a 3.31 Non-Limited-Slip Rear Axle, and Electronic Sound Enhancement.

Should I wait for a 2027 Explorer or buy a 2026 now?

Wait for a 2027 if you want the new Tremor trim, a Platinum with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, the new Slick Roof Conversion option, the new ST Sinister Package, or one of the new colors (Avalanche Gray or Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat). Buy a 2026 now if you need the vehicle in the next few months, want Space White Metallic paint (discontinued for 2027), or the 2026 trim lineup already meets your needs.

How do I reserve a 2027 Ford Explorer at Jay Malone Ford?

Visit our 2027 Ford Explorer reservation page or call us at (320) 587-4748. Reservations are free, zero obligation, and prioritize your build when Ford opens allocations.

Make the right call for your family

Redesigns and model-year updates like this one don’t always come with a brand-new trim, but the 2027 does — and the Explorer Tremor is going to fit the life a lot of central Minnesota families actually live. Whether you’re holding out for the Tremor, eyeing a Platinum with the new 3.0L V6, or just trying to figure out if your 2022 Explorer has another year left in it before the next one arrives — we’d love to help you think it through.

For the full 2027 Explorer overview including every trim in detail, visit our 2027 Ford Explorer overview page. For a deep dive on the Tremor specifically, read our 2027 Explorer Tremor specs and features guide.