2027 Ford Explorer Tremor vs. Explorer ST
Adventure or Performance? Meet Two Sides of the 2027 Explorer
The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor and Explorer ST take the same three-row SUV in two different directions. The Tremor emphasizes off-road capability with standard four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, off-road-tuned suspension, and additional underbody protection. The ST puts its emphasis on performance with a standard 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine and ST-specific performance equipment.
That creates an interesting decision for SUV shoppers. Both provide three-row versatility and access to powerful EcoBoost engines, but their personalities and standard equipment are designed around different priorities.
This comparison from Stuckey Ford takes a closer look at the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor vs. Explorer ST to help you understand the differences between these two Explorer models.
2027 Explorer Tremor vs. ST at a Glance
Explorer Tremor
Built With Off-Road Adventure in Mind
- Standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine
- Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine
- Standard Intelligent 4WD
- Off-road-tuned suspension
- All-terrain tires
- Unique front tow hooks
- Front and rear underbody protection
- Off-road auxiliary grille lights
- Tremor-specific exterior details
The Tremor is the Explorer to consider when your plans regularly extend beyond paved roads and you want off-road-focused equipment directly from the factory.
Explorer ST
Built With On-Road Performance in Mind
- Standard 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- ST-tuned suspension
- Performance brakes
- Quad chrome exhaust tips
- Black mesh grille
- ST-specific exterior details
- Available Intelligent 4WD
- Performance-focused design
The ST is designed for drivers who want their three-row Explorer to have a more performance-oriented personality for everyday road driving.
Power: Tremor Flexibility vs. Standard ST V6 Performance
One of the biggest differences between the Explorer Tremor and Explorer ST is what you get under the hood as standard equipment.
Explorer Tremor Engine Choices
The 2027 Explorer Tremor comes standard with Ford's 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, rated at 300 horsepower.
Drivers who want additional power can equip the Tremor with the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine.
This gives Tremor shoppers a choice between the standard four-cylinder configuration and the available V6 while retaining the model's off-road-focused equipment.
Explorer ST V6
The Explorer ST comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine, making the V6 an integral part of the ST's performance-oriented configuration.
Ford rates the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 at up to 400 horsepower, depending on the state where the vehicle is purchased.
The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and works alongside ST-specific performance equipment.
Where the Explorer Tremor Stands Apart
The Tremor isn't simply an Explorer with rugged styling. Ford equips it with hardware designed to support driving beyond everyday pavement.
Standard Intelligent 4WD works alongside the Terrain Management System™, while the Tremor's off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires support its more adventure-focused mission.
Ford also equips the Tremor with front and rear deflector plates for additional underbody protection. Unique front tow hooks and auxiliary lights integrated into the grille further distinguish the Tremor from other Explorer models.
The Tremor also has a taller stance than the ST. Ford lists the Tremor at 70.8 inches in overall height compared with 69.8 inches for the ST.
Where the Explorer ST Stands Apart
The Explorer ST takes a different approach. Instead of focusing on off-road equipment, Ford builds the ST around performance.
The 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 comes standard, while ST-specific suspension tuning and performance brakes support the model's more road-focused character.
The ST also separates itself visually with a black mesh grille, blackout treatments on the headlamps and taillamps, ST badging, and quad chrome exhaust tips.
For 2027, Ford also offers a new Sinister Package for the Explorer ST, adding exclusive wheels and amber accent lighting for another way to distinguish the performance-focused model.
Which Explorer Matches How You Drive?
Consider the Explorer Tremor If...
- You expect to travel on unpaved or rough roads.
- Standard four-wheel drive is important to you.
- You want all-terrain tires from the factory.
- You want additional underbody protection.
- You like the flexibility of choosing between two EcoBoost engine options.
- You want an Explorer with rugged Tremor-specific styling.
Consider the Explorer ST If...
- On-road performance is a higher priority.
- You want the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 as standard equipment.
- You prefer sport-oriented suspension tuning.
- You want performance brakes.
- You prefer ST-specific exterior styling.
- You want a performance-focused three-row Explorer.
Neither approach changes the Explorer's fundamental role as a three-row SUV. The decision comes down to whether off-road-focused equipment or on-road performance better matches how you plan to use your Explorer.
Three-Row Versatility Comes With Both
Choosing between Tremor and ST doesn't mean giving up the everyday versatility that makes the Explorer a three-row SUV.
Three Rows
Both models provide three rows of seating. Second-row captain's chairs come standard, giving the Tremor and ST six-passenger seating in their standard configurations.
Cargo Space
Ford lists up to 85.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity for both the Explorer Tremor and Explorer ST when configured for maximum cargo space.
Towing Capability
The 2027 Explorer lineup offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, giving drivers additional flexibility for trailers and recreational equipment.
Technology for the Road Ahead
The Tremor and ST may have different personalities, but both benefit from the technology available throughout the 2027 Explorer lineup.
Ford Digital Experience
A 13.2-inch center display and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster help create a connected cabin experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility make it easier to access compatible smartphone features.
Available BlueCruise
Ford BlueCruise is available for the 2027 Explorer, providing hands-free highway driving capability on compatible sections of divided highway when system requirements are met.
Explorer Tremor or ST? Start With These Questions
Will You Regularly Leave the Pavement?
If dirt roads, trails, campsites, or other rough surfaces are part of your plans, the Tremor's standard Intelligent 4WD, all-terrain tires, off-road suspension, and underbody protection are meaningful differences to consider.
Is Performance Your Priority?
If your focus is on-road performance, the ST's standard 3.0L EcoBoost V6, ST-tuned suspension, and performance brakes give it a distinctly different setup.
Do You Want a V6 Tremor?
The Tremor doesn't limit you to its standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. Ford also makes the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 available, allowing shoppers to combine Tremor capability with the available V6.
Need Everyday Family Versatility?
Both models remain three-row Explorers, so choosing between them can focus on how you drive rather than requiring you to give up the passenger and cargo flexibility of an Explorer.
2027 Ford Explorer Tremor vs. ST FAQs
What is the main difference between the 2027 Explorer Tremor and ST?
The Tremor is configured around off-road capability, while the ST emphasizes on-road performance. The Tremor includes equipment such as standard Intelligent 4WD, all-terrain tires, off-road-tuned suspension, and underbody protection. The ST comes standard with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and performance-oriented suspension and braking equipment.
Does the 2027 Explorer Tremor have a V6?
A 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 is available for the 2027 Explorer Tremor. Its standard engine is the 2.3L EcoBoost I-4.
What engine comes standard in the 2027 Explorer ST?
The 2027 Explorer ST comes standard with Ford's 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is four-wheel drive standard on the Explorer Tremor?
Yes. Intelligent 4WD is standard equipment on the 2027 Explorer Tremor.
How many people can the Explorer Tremor and ST seat?
Both models come standard with second-row captain's chairs and seating for six. Ford offers a second-row bench seat on the ST for seven-passenger seating, while the Tremor is not offered with the second-row bench seat.
Where can I compare Ford Explorer models near Altoona, PA?
Visit Stuckey Ford to explore available Ford Explorer models, compare features and configurations, and learn more about which Explorer fits your driving needs.
Explore the Ford Explorer at Stuckey Ford
The 2027 Explorer Tremor and Explorer ST demonstrate how different two versions of the same three-row SUV can be. Tremor equipment focuses on taking the Explorer farther beyond everyday pavement, while the ST emphasizes power and on-road performance.
Explore our current Ford Explorer inventory or contact Stuckey Ford to compare available Explorer models and features.