Ford Explorer vs Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2026 Ford Explorer retained much of its previous design, having undergone a facelift in 2025 that introduced a more rugged, truck-like appearance. This design was particularly suited to the 2026 Tremor model, which enhanced its off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, and off-road lights integrated into the grille. The Tremor model also featured unique Electric Spice accents, a golden hue reminiscent of Subaru's Wilderness models, adding a distinctive touch to its rugged persona. The raised suspension provided 22 centimetres of ground clearance, surpassing competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse Z71 and the Honda Pilot TrailSport, making it a formidable choice for off-road enthusiasts. Inside, the Explorer's interior remained largely unchanged from its 2025 overhaul, featuring a new infotainment system and improved screen integration. However, the interior design and materials, even in the well-equipped Tremor model, did not quite match the vehicle's price point, though a variety of options were available across the lineup.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, showcased a bold and intricate design, characterized by its large spindle grille and aggressive LED headlights. The exterior profile was sporty yet understated, with smooth lines and body-coloured fender flares suggesting a focus on road performance. F Sport elements, including dark trim and 20-inch wheels, added to its sporty appeal, while the fastback roof shape echoed the design of coupe-like crossovers. Inside, the NX Hybrid combined sporty aesthetics with modern technology, featuring a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen angled towards the driver for a cockpit-like feel. The F Sport 3 model boasted sporty interior elements such as dark graphite aluminum trim, metal pedals, and Circuit Red synthetic leather upholstery, enhancing its upscale and athletic ambiance. The NuLuxe textile convincingly mimicked real leather, contributing to the high-quality look and feel of the interior.

The 2026 Ford Explorer offered two powertrain options, both unchanged from previous years. The standard 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, while the Tremor and ST models featured a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Tremor model also included a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, off-road drive mode, and steel skid plates, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite its size, the Explorer demonstrated confident handling and a comfortable ride, even in the off-road-oriented Tremor model. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power for passing and highway driving, while the 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth and responsive gear changes. Off-road, the Tremor model proved capable on challenging trails, though it was more comfortable on-road compared to more rugged off-road vehicles.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid, specifically the NX 350h F Sport 3, was equipped with a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three electric motors, providing standard all-wheel drive. The system produced a combined 240 horsepower, with a 0 to 96 km/h time of 7.2 seconds. While the NX Hybrid offered adaptive dampers and a firmer suspension, it was not particularly sporty, with handling described as controlled rather than agile. The steering was weighty but lacked feedback, and the ride was firm yet comfortable, even on broken surfaces. The hybrid powertrain delivered adequate performance for everyday driving, though it lacked the excitement of more powerful options. The drivetrain felt somewhat unrefined, with a droning engine under hard acceleration. For those seeking more power, the NX 450h plug-in hybrid offered 340 horsepower and a starting price just under $65,000.

The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with an option for second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six. While the Explorer offered reasonable space for a midsize three-row crossover, it had slightly less headroom in the third row compared to some competitors. Second-row legroom was also less generous than rivals like the Honda Pilot. Cargo space was competitive, with 461 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,302 litres with the rear seats folded, and 2,415 litres with the second row down. The Explorer's interior featured ample storage options, including large door pockets and a spacious centre console. Towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms, average for its class, though less than some competitors.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid's F Sport 3 model offered comfortable front seats with good bolstering and ample room for tall adults. Power adjustments for the seats and steering wheel, along with heated and ventilated front seats, contributed to a comfortable driving experience. Rear seat space was adequate for average-sized adults, though legroom could be tight for taller passengers. The NX Hybrid's cargo space was on the lower end for its class, with 643 litres behind the rear seats and 1,328 litres with the seats folded. The coupe-like roofline contributed to the limited cargo capacity, but the space was still practical for everyday use.

The 2026 Ford Explorer came equipped with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Maps, and SiriusXM with 360L satellite radio. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though climate control functions could be more intuitive. The Explorer offered multiple USB ports throughout the cabin and an optional 14-speaker B&O audio system. A 360-degree camera system was available, providing useful views for off-road driving.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 9.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen, with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional head-up display and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system enhanced the tech offerings. The NX Hybrid included a three-year Remote Connect subscription, allowing remote vehicle access and status alerts. The infotainment system was responsive, with physical controls for volume and temperature, making it user-friendly.

The 2026 Ford Explorer was equipped with the CoPilot 360+ suite, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera system and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving. The Explorer received top safety ratings, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and performed well in crash tests. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering features like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Optional safety features included automatic parking and a surround-view camera system. The safety systems functioned effectively during testing.