The 2026 Ford Explorer brings a lot of mechanical muscle to the three-row SUV class, but it faces some serious smoke from the redesigned, second-gen Hyundai Palisade. While the Explorer's rugged identity is its main selling point, the Palisade pivots toward a sharp, boxy style with a more upscale feel. Find out all about the available features in the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade below!
Key Takeaways
- The Explorer's entry-level trims are slightly more affordable than the Palisade's.
- Ford introduces the off-road-ready Tremor trim to the Explorer line against Hyundai's new XRT Pro.
- Ford's engine options offer higher horsepower than the competition.
What's New in Explorer and Palisade Models for 2026?
This year, the Explorer debuts the Tremor trim. Built for the dirt, it features a factory lift, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, rugged steel skid plates, and all-terrain tires wrapping 18-inch wheels. Ford also reshaped the front and rear bumpers for steeper angles, while equipping the cabin with easy-to-clean "ActiveX" synthetic seating.
The Palisade enters its second gen with an overhaul to its aesthetic. It adopts a longer wheelbase and a boxy silhouette heavily inspired by Hyundai's newer EVs. To counter Ford's off-road expansion, the automaker introduced the XRT Pro, which has a taller ride height, an electronic rear limited-slip differential, and unique terrain drive modes.
Prices by Trim in the 2026 Explorer vs. Palisade
Explorer trims have a slightly lower price than Palisade models at the base, but both brands are equivalently priced as you go higher. As of May 26, 2026, the Explorer lineup is:
- Active: $40,260
- Active w/ 200A Pkg: $42,380
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,260
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
And Palisade models are:
- SE: $41,035
- SEL: $43,540
- SEL Convenience: $44,970
- SEL Premium: $46,900
- Limited: $51,370
- XRT Pro: $51,470
- Calligraphy: $56,160
Powertrains in the 2026 Explorer vs. Palisade
Most Explorer trims have a standard 300-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine; however, the ST, Platinum, or Tremor feature a 400-hp twin-turbo V6. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic and your choice of RWD or AWD.
The Palisade's base engine is a standard 287-hp 3.5-liter V6. You also have the option of an available 2.5-liter turbo (combined with a pair of electric motors), delivering a combined 329 horses. The base engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic, while the hybrid mates with a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD is standard, but you do have the choice of AWD.
Powertrains
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Hyundai Palisade |
| Standard 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder; available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
Standard 3.5L V6; available 2.5L turbo hybrid |
| 10-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
| Standard RWD; available AWD |
Standard RWD; available AWD |
Cabin Technology in the Explorer vs. the Palisade
The Explorer's layout centers around the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and eight USB ports scattered throughout the cabin. And there's an available 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The Palisade's single curved glass housing combines the driver displays and infotainment screens into a continuous command center. It looks incredibly futuristic, though drivers who prefer a traditional dashboard layout with physical knobs might feel more at home in the Explorer.
Which SUV Is Your Best Bet?
While the Palisade's modern luxury turns heads, the Explorer is the greater powerhouse. If you're ready to experience its muscle, contact Banner Ford of Monroe today so that we can get you behind the wheel!