The Ford Explorer is a dependable family SUV for carpools and weekend trail rides. If you're weighing it against the completely redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback, we've got the tea on how these two popular family haulers stack.
Key Takeaways
2026 Explorer and Outback Updates and Pricing
While the Explorer's lineup is mostly unchanged from last year, it adds all-new Explorer Tremor, which is dialed in for rougher trails thanks to an elevated suspension, a rear limited-slip differential, 18-inch wheels, and rugged all-terrain tires. Trim pricing is:
- Active: $40,260
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,760
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
The Subaru Outback gets a full redesign this year, trading its old look for fresh styling and a thoroughly modern cabin update. Outback pricing covers a wide range of trims:
- Premium: $34,995
- Limited: $41,715
- Touring: $45,395
- Wilderness: $44,995
- Limited XT: $44,365
- Touring XT: $47,995
Explorer and Outback Engine Choices
The Explorer's smallest engine is a 300-hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder for Active, ST-Line, and Platinum models. For more heat, the ST features a 400-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (which you can also opt for on the Platinum trim). A 10-speed automatic handles the shifting, and you have the choice of RWD or FWD.
Subaru gives you two engine choices as well--a standard 180-hp 2.5-liter engine or a punchier 260-hp 2.4-liter turbo, which comes standard on Wilderness models and stays optional for XT trims. Both pair with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard AWD.
Which SUV Has Greater Towing Abilities?
When you add the Class III Towing package, the Explorer is the champ, with 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. The Outback reaches 3,500 pounds with its optional turbo engine. The Explorer takes a clear victory for heavy hauling.
Powertrains and Towing
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Subaru Outback |
| Standard 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder/available 3.0L twin-turbo V6 |
Standard 2.5-liter/available 2.4-liter turbo |
| 10-speed automatic |
CVT |
| Standard RWD or available AWD |
AWD |
| 5,000 pound towing capacity |
3,500 pound towing capacity |
Creature Comforts in the Explorer vs. Outback
The Explorer brings plenty of cabin comfort thanks to its soft-touch materials, modern colors, and clean layout. While its third row is best for kids, sliding second-row seats make access painless, no matter your size.
The Outback's premium materials surround a dual-panel digital gauge and screen layout, complete with physical climate control buttons just below the glass. Subaru raised the flat roofline by two inches this year, which opens up more rear headroom and adds two extra cubic feet of cargo room behind the seats.
Connectivity and Infotainment in the Explorer and Outback
Every Explorer features a 13.2-inch touchscreen, with Ford's Digital Experience and built-in Google and Amazon apps, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While parked, you can stream movies or play digital games right from the dash.
The Outback's 12.1-inch display features a helpful quick-access menu bar at the top of the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-connected voice recognition system are all standard here.
Choosing the Ford Explorer or Subaru Outback for Family Travel
Even with the Outback's fresh styling, the Ford Explorer stands out for active families who need serious towing power and the daily flexibility of three-row seating. It is the ultimate road trip machine. Stop by our Jarret Scott showroom to see it for yourself!
