2026 Ford Explorer Tremor's Ike Gauntlet Tow Test: Impressive Performance with a Glitch

Ike Gauntlet Downhill Performance

• 🚀 The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is put to the test on the Ike Gauntlet, a 7% grade highway descent.
• 💡 The SUV, with its V6 twin-turbo engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, performed exceptionally well, requiring only one brake application to maintain speed.
• 🎯 The vehicle demonstrated confidence and stability, feeling like it was driving without a trailer, despite towing approximately 4,500 lbs.

Towing Setup and Capacity

• 🛠️ The test involved an Aluma trailer and a Kawasaki Ridge Crew side-by-side, totaling around 4,500 lbs.
• ⚖️ A Weigh Safe height-adjustable hitch with a built-in scale indicated a tongue load of nearly 500 lbs, providing optimal stability.
• ⚠️ The Explorer Tremor has a 5,000 lb tow rating, and while this setup is close to capacity, it's noted that previous generations had higher ratings.

Powertrain and Uphill Test

• ⚡ The Explorer Tremor features a powerful 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful in its segment.
• ⚠️ During the uphill climb, a