The Ford Explorer has long been the go-to choice for families who need extra space and the flexibility to handle everything from the daily school run to weekend adventures. The Subaru Outback offers a complete redesign, with fresh styling and updated tech. Find out how these two favorite SUVs compare when shopping for your family.
Key Takeaways:
- Ford expands the Explorer lineup with the off-road-focused Tremor trim.
- Subaru redesigns the Outback from the top down, with updated styling, a new interior, and more cargo space.
- The 2026 Ford Explorer offers more towing capacity and the added versatility of three rows of seating.
What's New for the 2026 Ford Explorer and Subaru Outback?
Ford makes only one major change to the Explorer lineup this year, but it's a big one. The newly added Tremor trim is for buyers who plan to leave the pavement behind. It adds a lifted suspension, rear limited-slip differential, 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and other trail-ready upgrades. Other than that, the lineup is the same. Explorer trim pricing is:
- Active: $40,260
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,760
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
Subaru takes a much bigger leap by completely redesigning the Outback. The new model features updated exterior styling, a redesigned cabin, and improvements throughout the lineup. Its models are:
- Premium: $34,995
- Limited: $41,715
- Touring: $45,395
- Wilderness: $44,995
- Limited XT: $44,365
- Touring XT: $47,995
Comparing the Performance and Powertrains of the Ford Explorer and Subaru Outback
The Explorer gives buyers two strong engine choices. Active, ST-Line, and Platinum models feature a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, while the ST (and optionally the Platinum) steps up to a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Every Explorer mates with a 10-speed automatic and either standard rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive.
The Outback also offers two engines, starting with a 180-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Buyers looking for more performance can choose the 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, which comes standard on the Wilderness trim and is available on XT models. Both engines pair with a CVT and Subaru's standard all-wheel-drive system.
Which SUV Has Greater Towing Capacity: The 2026 Ford Explorer or Subaru Outback?
If towing is high on your priority list, the Explorer is the clear winner. Equipped with the available Class III Trailer Tow Package, it can pull up to 5,000 pounds. In comparison, the Outback reaches a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds with its turbocharged engine. That's plenty for lighter recreational gear, but it falls short of what the Explorer can handle.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Subaru Outback |
| 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder or optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
Standard 2.5-liter or optional 2.4-liter turbo |
| 10-speed automatic transmission |
CVT |
| RWD; AWD |
AWD |
| 5,000-pound towing capacity |
3,500-pound towing capacity |
The Everyday Comfort of the 2026 Ford Explorer vs. the Subaru Outback
The Explorer delivers a roomy cabin with soft-touch materials, modern styling, and seating for up to seven passengers. The third row is ideal for children, while the sliding second-row seats make getting back there much easier for passengers of all ages.
The redesigned Subaru Outback receives a noticeably more upscale cabin. A new dual-screen digital display, physical climate controls, and higher-quality materials give it a more refined feel. Subaru also raises the roofline by about two inches, improving rear-seat headroom while adding roughly two cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
Tech Features of the 2026 Ford Explorer and Subaru Outback Compared
Every Explorer has a 13.2-inch touchscreen running Ford Digital Experience with Google Built-In, Amazon, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. One unique feature is the ability to stream movies, browse the web, or play games while you're parked.
The Outback features a smaller standard 12.1-inch touchscreen with an updated interface that includes a convenient quick-access menu bar. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and cloud-based voice recognition are also standard.
Which Is the Best Off-Road SUV for Families?
The redesigned Subaru Outback is more refined than ever and is an excellent option for buyers who want a comfortable, adventure-ready wagon. For families that need more passenger space, greater towing capability, and stronger overall performance, the Ford Explorer is a versatile choice. Come by Banner Ford of Monroe today to get behind the wheel of a Ford Explorer.