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How Ford BlueCruise on the 2026 Ford Explorer builds commuting confidence around St. Croix Falls, WI

How Ford BlueCruise on the 2026 Ford Explorer builds commuting confidence around St. Croix Falls, WI

Don Johnson Auto Group - How Ford BlueCruise on the 2026 Ford Explorer builds commuting confidence around St. Croix Falls, WI

When your day spans river crossings, rolling two-lanes, and the busier stretches approaching the Twin Cities corridor, the 2026 Ford Explorer® with BlueCruise hands-free highway driving can transform the drive into a calmer, more consistent routine. BlueCruise uses mapped, compatible highways to help accelerate, brake, and steer while you keep your eyes on the road, easing fatigue on longer stints and smoothing the rhythm of daily travel. Pair it with the Explorer’s poised ride, available 3.0L EcoBoost® power, and smart Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies, and you have a family SUV that’s as composed in morning traffic as it is confident on weekend escapes.

BlueCruise is available on select Explorer trims, including performance-focused ST and richly appointed Platinumâ„¢, and works hand-in-hand with core driver-assist features such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Centering. The result is a hands-free experience on compatible roads that still keeps you engaged and informed. In a region where snow squalls and slick surfaces can show up without much warning, having a system that can maintain steady lane discipline and following distance when conditions allow is meaningful. You remain in command, and the Explorer provides an extra layer of helpful assistance when the drive is long.

  • Highway focus: BlueCruise is designed for supported, mapped highways to reduce fatigue on predictable stretches.
  • Driver engagement: You keep eyes forward with attention monitoring while the system assists with steering, braking, and acceleration.
  • Trim availability: Offered on select Explorer models, including ST and Platinumâ„¢, with feature availability varying by package.
  • Everyday synergy: Works alongside Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies so you benefit from layered assistance features.

Inside the Explorer, the Ford Digital Experience makes it easy to set navigation, manage calls, or stream during downtime, while available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® adds depth to your favorite playlists. Families can appreciate available seating for up to seven, generous cargo space for sports bags or weekend totes, and Selectable drive modes that tailor the SUV to rain, snow, or gravel. If your routes around St. Croix Falls, WI regularly expand to Eau Claire or Duluth runs, BlueCruise helps the hours feel shorter and more relaxed, while the rest of the Explorer’s engineering ensures you still have the strength to tow up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, and the stability to handle blustery crosswinds.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Does BlueCruise work in winter?

Yes, when conditions allow and the roadway is within compatible coverage. As with any driver-assist system, heavy snow or severe weather can limit functionality, and you remain responsible for safe operation.

Is BlueCruise on every 2026 Explorer?

It is available on select trims and packages. Our team can show you exactly which models on the lot include it, so you can choose the configuration that fits your driving profile.

Can I use BlueCruise on two-lane roads?

BlueCruise is designed for compatible highways. On local roads, the Explorer’s other Ford Co-Pilot360® features support confident driving until you return to eligible highway segments.

How does BlueCruise impact long drives with kids?

By assisting with routine steering, braking, and acceleration on supported highways, BlueCruise can reduce fatigue for the driver, helping you arrive more refreshed and ready for family time.

Whether you’re comparing trims or planning the best way to equip your Explorer for a tech-forward commute, a short test route that includes a compatible BlueCruise highway is the best way to feel the difference. Don Johnson Auto Group, serving New Richmond, St. Croix Falls, and Barron, can pair you with an Explorer configured for your daily rhythm, explain how BlueCruise works in real time, and show how the rest of the SUV’s features come together for confident Wisconsin driving.

It only takes a few minutes on a known stretch of highway to sense how BlueCruise contributes to calmer, more consistent travel. Couple that with the Explorer’s available Intelligent 4WD, Selectable drive modes, and a cabin ready for family gear, and you have a well-rounded SUV that keeps pace with your life—on busy weekdays and open-sky weekends alike.

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Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Fits Confident Family Driving around Barron, WI

Don Johnson Auto Group - Why the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® Fits Confident Family Driving around Barron, WI The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® is the Explorer® trim that makes the most sense for drivers who need one SUV to do more than commute. Around Barron, WI, life often asks a vehicle to handle a mix of in-town errands, county roads, school activities, weekend cabin trips, boat landings, jobsite visits, and family travel. A typical crossover can cover some of that, but the Tremor® is built for shoppers who want more confidence when pavement ends or the route becomes less predictable. It keeps the core strengths of the Explorer® family - three-row seating, useful cargo space, smart technology, and available advanced driver assistance - then adds hardware that gives it a more capable foundation. That point of view matters. The Explorer® Tremor® is not simply an appearance package. Ford gives it an off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, underbody protection with front and rear deflector plates, and a model-exclusive Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. Those features help it feel more purposeful when the road surface changes, whether that means a gravel approach to a fishing spot, a rutted driveway outside town, or an unpaved access road to family land. Don Johnson Auto Group supports shoppers serving New Richmond, St. Croix Falls, and Barron who want to understand how these features translate into everyday ownership, not just how the spec sheet looks. A Three-Row SUV with Real Utility One of the smartest things about the Explorer® Tremor® is that it does not ask families to trade space for capability. It still delivers the three-row layout that makes the Explorer® a practical household vehicle. Standard second-row captain’s chairs make it easier for passengers to access the third row, while the available PowerFold® third-row seats simplify the transition from passenger space to cargo space. When all seats are in place, the Explorer® provides 16.3 cu ft of cargo room behind the rear seats. With rows folded, the Tremor® offers up to 85.3 cu ft of maximum cargo volume. That flexibility is valuable for Barron-area drivers because cargo needs can change quickly. A weekday might involve backpacks, groceries, and work bags. The next trip might call for camping equipment, fishing gear, folding chairs, or supplies from a home improvement run. The Tremor® handles both roles without feeling like a vehicle built for only one kind of driver. It is family-friendly, but it also feels ready for hobbies, errands, and practical work. Why Tremor® Capability Matters The Tremor® trim’s off-road hardware gives it a different kind of confidence than a conventional family SUV. The Torsen® limited-slip rear axle is especially important because it helps improve traction when grip varies from one side of the vehicle to the other. The off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height supports travel over rougher surfaces, while underbody protection helps shield key areas when navigating uneven terrain. Torsen® rear axle: Helps manage traction on uneven surfaces. Off-road-tuned suspension: Adds confidence beyond smooth pavement. Increased ride height: Supports travel over rough approaches. Deflector plates: Help protect front and rear underbody areas. This does not mean every Tremor® owner needs to spend weekends on demanding trails. For many Wisconsin drivers, the appeal is simpler: confidence. The Explorer® Tremor® is designed for the kind of real-world routes that are not extreme but still require more than a low-slung, city-focused SUV. It is the right fit for drivers who want capability available when needed, not only when planned. Power Choices for Different Driving Styles The 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® comes standard with the 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine, which is rated at 300 hp. That gives the SUV responsive everyday power for commuting, passing, and hauling passengers. For shoppers who want more strength, the Tremor® is also available with the 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine. This available engine gives the Tremor® a more muscular feel, especially when the vehicle is loaded with people, gear, or both. The broader Explorer® lineup offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, which adds another layer of usefulness. For Barron-area owners, that can be helpful for small recreational trailers, utility trailers, or weekend equipment. The Tremor® is not a pickup, and it does not need to be. It gives SUV shoppers a balanced blend of enclosed cargo space, passenger comfort, and practical pulling ability. Technology That Supports the Drive Capability is only part of the Tremor® story. The 2027 Explorer® also includes the Ford Digital Experience, designed to bring familiar apps, connectivity, and vehicle functions together in a modern cabin environment. Ford Co-Pilot360® Technology is focused on helping drivers feel more confident behind the wheel, and the Explorer® lineup offers advanced driver-assist features that can make daily driving less stressful. For shoppers comparing trims, it is worth noting that the Tremor® can be equipped with appealing comfort and convenience upgrades. For 2027, Tremor® models with the 3.0L EcoBoost® engine can add the Sun & Sound Package, which includes an upgraded B&O® Sound System, massaging front seats, and a power moonroof. That combination is appealing because it lets buyers keep the Tremor® model’s trail-ready foundation while adding features often associated with more luxury-focused trims. Who Should Choose the Explorer® Tremor®? The Explorer® Tremor® is a smart match for shoppers who have looked at ordinary three-row SUVs and felt something was missing. It is still civilized enough for school drop-offs, work commutes, and family trips, but it has the stance, traction hardware, and protective equipment to feel more at home when the route gets rough. That balance is exactly why it stands out in the Explorer® lineup. Outdoor families: The Tremor® supports camping gear, trail access, and weekend recreation. Rural homeowners: Its capability helps with gravel lanes, long driveways, and uneven property access. Active commuters: It remains comfortable and practical for daily driving. Gear-heavy travelers: The flexible cabin makes room for passengers and equipment. For many Barron, WI shoppers, the Tremor® trim is the sweet spot because it feels intentionally built for how people actually use an SUV in northwest Wisconsin. It is not the most luxurious Explorer®, and it is not the most performance-focused Explorer®, but it may be the most versatile for drivers who move between family life, rural roads, and outdoor plans. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2027 Ford Explorer Tremor® have three rows? Yes. The Explorer® Tremor® is a three-row SUV with standard second-row captain’s chairs. It provides seating for six passengers and includes practical cargo flexibility for families and active drivers. What engine comes standard in the Explorer® Tremor®? The 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine is standard and is rated at 300 hp. A 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine is available for drivers who want stronger performance. What makes the Tremor® different from other Explorer® trims? The Tremor® adds off-road-focused hardware, including a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, off-road-tuned suspension with increased ride height, and front and rear underbody deflector plates. Is the Explorer® Tremor® good for everyday driving? Yes. Its off-road capability is the headline, but it still provides the comfort, cargo space, technology, and three-row practicality that make the Explorer® useful for daily life. *Image may not be actual model Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information

Space, Towing, and Hands-Free Confidence — How the 2026 Ford Explorer Fits Everyday Driving around Barron, WI

Space, Towing, and Hands-Free Confidence — How the 2026 Ford Explorer Fits Everyday Driving around Barron, WI

Don Johnson Auto Group - Space, Towing, and Hands-Free Confidence — How the 2026 Ford Explorer Fits Everyday Driving around Barron, WI The 2026 Ford Explorer® is the kind of SUV that earns its spot in your driveway day after day. If you live or work around Barron, WI, your week can look different from one day to the next — some days it’s a quick commute on US-8 and a run to the grocery store, other days it’s hauling sports gear to the fields, or pulling a small trailer out to a project site. The Explorer’s mix of rear-wheel-drive balance, available Intelligent 4WD traction, strong EcoBoost® power, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity answers those shifts without drama. And when you add the available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving experience on compatible roads, it reduces the friction of long, familiar stretches so you arrive a bit more relaxed. Why the Explorer’s Platform Matters in Real Life Underneath, the Explorer starts with something many midsize rivals skip — a standard rear-wheel-drive platform. What that means for you is a composed, predictable feel through corners and a confident, planted sensation when the SUV is loaded with passengers and cargo. It’s the sort of foundation that pays off during a fast merge onto WI-25 or when you need steady tracking on a breezy day headed across the Red Cedar River. If you want added traction for those days when conditions call for extra grip, available Intelligent 4WD steps in seamlessly. Pair that with selectable drive modes to tailor throttle and traction settings, and you’ve got a setup that adapts to your day without feeling complicated. Power comes in the form of a responsive 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, while select trims offer the available 3.0L EcoBoost for an even stronger punch. If a confident pass on a two-lane, or easy highway merges are a must for your driving around Barron, both powertrains deliver. And because the Explorer is designed not just to carry but to haul, it’s tow-rated up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. That’s enough to bring a mid-size boat to your favorite launch or to move a well-packed utility trailer when weekend projects call for supplies. Hands-Free Confidence on Familiar Roads Put enough miles on the same highway corridor and you learn every bend and passing lane. The Explorer’s available BlueCruise helps on those stretches by enabling hands-free highway driving on compatible roads while you keep your eyes on traffic. It can assist with steering, acceleration, and braking — another layer of support when you’re managing a long day, a loaded cabin, or a quick turn to evening activities. In plain terms, it’s driver-assist technology that feels like it was designed with real-world commuting in mind. Select trims, such as Platinum™ and ST, are equipped with BlueCruise, and our team can help you understand availability and plan details. Of course, BlueCruise isn’t the only way the Explorer takes the edge off everyday driving. Ford Co-Pilot360® technologies are standard across the lineup, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping System, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps. Available features like a 360-Degree Camera simplify tight parking moments downtown, and Adaptive Cruise Control (as part of Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+) adds even more ease to stop-and-go stretches. Flexible Space That Works for Barron Families Inside, the Explorer proves just how valuable thoughtful space can be. With seating for up to seven and an interior that adjusts quickly between people-moving and cargo-carrying, it fits the rhythm of family life without the constant shuffling of bags. Fold the third row and second row to unlock up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space — enough for everything from flea-market finds in Cameron to a weekend’s worth of camping gear bound for the Blue Hills. Available amenities like heated front seats, ventilated and massaging front-row options on select trims, and a panoramic fixed glass roof elevate the ride for everyone on board. Tech is straightforward and familiar thanks to the available Ford Digital Experience. It integrates streaming entertainment while parked, phone connectivity, and cloud-connected features you’ll actually use. Add the available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® to bring your playlist to life on evening drives along County Road O. The whole cabin is built to deliver a calm, modern space that still stands up to everyday use. Which 2026 Explorer Trim Fits Best? If you’re centering daily value and comfort, the Explorer Active models give you the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+, and helpful touches like heated front seats and a power liftgate. Want to turn up the style and tech? ST-Line adds the 360-Degree Camera, a distinctive interior design with red stitching, and the B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen®. For off-pavement confidence to reach that tucked-away campsite, the Tremor® model brings an off-road-tuned suspension, underbody protection, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. If luxury is more your speed, Platinum™ treats you to features like BlueCruise, an available panoramic roof, and upscale seating with ventilation and massage. And for drivers who love a performance edge, the ST pairs the 3.0L EcoBoost with a sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes for the most engaging Explorer drive. Whichever direction you lean, we recommend focusing on three decisions: drivetrain (RWD vs. available Intelligent 4WD), powertrain (2.3L vs. available 3.0L EcoBoost), and driver-assist suite (BlueCruise availability and Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ content). That short list helps pinpoint the right fit quickly. Helpful Tips for Towing and Trailering Know Your Load: Confirm your trailer and cargo weight to stay within the Explorer’s up to 5,000-lb rating Package Right: Choose the available Class III Trailer Tow Package for proper hardware Balance Cargo: Distribute weight carefully and target appropriate tongue weight Practice Backing: Use a spotter and take time to rehearse in an open lot For many Barron drivers, light towing is an occasional need that makes a big difference. The Explorer’s tow rating, combined with its balanced chassis and available Intelligent 4WD, inspires confidence when it’s time to head out. If you have questions about brake controllers, hitch equipment, or setting up the right mirrors and camera views for visibility, our team can talk you through best practices. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2026 Explorer have hands-free highway driving? BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is available and equipped on select trims such as ST and Platinum™, with plan details that apply. It supports steering, acceleration, and braking on compatible highways while you remain attentive. How much can the 2026 Explorer tow? When properly equipped with the available Class III Trailer Tow Package, the 2026 Explorer is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. That’s enough for many small boats, campers, and utility trailers used around Barron. Is Intelligent 4WD worth it for Northwest Wisconsin? If you value extra traction and confidence when roads are loose or slick, available Intelligent 4WD is a smart upgrade. It automatically adjusts power delivery to help you keep moving with poise. How flexible is the Explorer’s interior for families? Very. With seating for up to seven and up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space when properly configured, the Explorer quickly adapts from school-day carpools to weekend loads. For local shoppers, the 2026 Explorer stands out as a true all-rounder — confident and comfortable for the everyday, with the power and smarts to do more. If you’re comparing trims or weighing RWD versus available Intelligent 4WD for your routes around Barron, we’re here to help you zero in on the exact configuration that matches your life. Don Johnson Auto Group is proudly serving New Richmond, St. Croix Falls, and Barron with a friendly, streamlined experience that makes bringing home the right Explorer feel simple. Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor capability for exploring around Ashland, WI

2026 Ford Explorer Tremor capability for exploring around Ashland, WI

Don Johnson Auto Group - 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor capability for exploring around Ashland, WI The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor® is built for drivers who want an SUV that handles everyday errands without breaking a sweat — and still feels ready when the pavement ends. Around Ashland, WI, that mix matters. Two-lane stretches along US-2, scenic detours down County Highway 13, and gravel pullouts near Chequamegon Bay call for confidence and control. The Tremor trim adds focused hardware and smart tech that make those drives feel natural, not like a compromise. What sets the Explorer Tremor apart At a glance, the Tremor telegraphs intent: increased ride height, subtle orange accents, and functional underbody protection that is more than just a styling cue. Underneath, you will find a thoughtful set of enhancements designed for traction, control, and durability when surfaces change. Yet this is still an Explorer at heart — roomy for family and gear, easy to park around downtown Ashland, and quiet and composed on longer drives toward Bayfield or Washburn. Engine options: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 standard; available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 for greater power Traction hardware: Torsen® limited-slip rear axle for improved grip on uneven surfaces Suspension tuning: Off-road tuned with increased ride height for added clearance Protection: Underbody deflector plates front and rear help guard key components Drive tech: Available Intelligent 4WD with selectable drive modes for varying terrain That blend of hardware and tuning matters when you meet mixed conditions: smooth highway, interrupted by a surprise road project, followed by a rutted lane down to a lakeside launch. The Torsen limited-slip rear axle actively channels torque to the wheel with better traction, helping you ease forward smoothly instead of spinning needlessly. Pair that with the Tremor’s off-road suspension calibration and added clearance and you get an Explorer that simply feels prepared. Confidence on highway and trail The Explorer Tremor is equally comfortable covering steady miles on US-2 as it is navigating a washboard gravel stretch toward a trailhead. The platform’s standard rear-wheel-drive architecture (with available Intelligent 4WD) helps with stability, steering feel, and towing balance — all benefits you can sense day to day. When properly equipped, Explorer offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, which is convenient if you are hauling a compact camper or utility trailer for weekend projects. Stability advantage: Rear-wheel-drive foundation aids balance when loaded or towing Selectable modes: Choose the drive mode that best matches conditions for more natural control Visibility aids: Available 360-Degree Camera helps in tight pullouts or at trailhead parking Cabin quiet: Road manners stay calm and composed for conversation-friendly cruising For longer stretches, available Ford BlueCruise on compatible trims within the Explorer family adds hands-free highway driving on designated roads while you keep your eyes on traffic — a helpful confidence-builder for commutes or regional trips. It is a reminder that while the Tremor is trail-literate, it remains thoroughly modern and easy to live with. Everyday practicality remains a core strength Capability only works if it fits real life, and that is where the Tremor sticks the landing. You still get the Explorer’s flexible interior, with available seating for up to seven and an accommodating cargo area with up to 85.8 cubic feet of space. Loading paddleboards, camping bins, or bulk groceries is as simple as folding what you need and going. Tech is thoughtful, too — the Ford Digital Experience is designed to bring your favorite apps and content into the cabin, and the available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers and a subwoofer adds warmth and clarity to your everyday soundtrack. Seating flexibility: Configure rows quickly to match passengers and cargo Cargo capacity: Up to 85.8 cu ft helps with weekend getaways or DIY runs Audio upgrade: Available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® for crisp, rich sound Smart features: Ford Digital Experience integrates the content you already use In town, the Tremor’s footprint makes it easy to parallel park on Main Street or navigate compact spaces at local shops. Out of town, it is calm over expansion joints and confident on imperfect surfaces — qualities that reduce fatigue and keep everyone more relaxed by the time you arrive. Is Tremor the right Explorer for Ashland drivers? If your week takes you from school drop-offs to a quick supply run, then out to a favorite put-in on a weeknight, the Tremor’s balance may be exactly right. Compared with rivals that reserve real trail hardware for larger or more specialized models, Explorer Tremor gives you a genuine capability bump without sacrificing the daily drivability you want in a midsize three-row SUV. It is a true “yes, and” choice: yes to family versatility, and yes to hardware that helps when the road is not perfect. At Don Johnson Auto Group, we help you decide if the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 or the standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine better fits your mix of commuting and light adventuring, and we will walk you through Intelligent 4WD and drive modes, so you know exactly what to expect on your favorite routes. Frequently Asked Questions: Does the 2026 Explorer Tremor require the available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 to be trail-capable? No. The Tremor’s capability stems from its off-road tuned suspension, Torsen® limited-slip rear axle, increased ride height, and underbody protection. The available 3.0L EcoBoost V6 adds more power for towing or highway merging, but the core traction hardware is part of the Tremor package regardless of engine. How does the Tremor ride on everyday pavement around Ashland? Comfort remains a priority. The Tremor’s tuning is engineered to handle uneven surfaces without feeling harsh. On typical city streets and highways around Ashland, it feels composed and quiet — a good match for family use. Is BlueCruise available on the Tremor? Ford BlueCruise is available within the Explorer lineup and equipped on select trims. We can help you review the current Tremor configuration availability and plans for hands-free highway driving on compatible roads. Can the Explorer Tremor tow a small camper? When properly equipped, the 2026 Explorer offers up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, which covers many small campers and utility trailers. Ask us about the Class III Trailer Tow Package and how it fits your towing needs. What makes the Torsen limited-slip rear axle helpful? A Torsen® limited-slip rear axle actively redistributes torque to the wheel with better traction, which helps you stay moving when surfaces are uneven — such as rutted gravel or a slick launch area. It is a hardware advantage you can feel at low speeds when grip matters most. If you want one midsize SUV to cover both weekday and weekend needs around Ashland, the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is a compelling fit. You get confident traction, thoughtfully tuned suspension, and practical space — plus available upgrades like the B&O® sound system and BlueCruise to make daily life easier. We are proud to be serving Amery, Ashland, and Medford, and our product experts can help you compare Tremor to other Explorer trims so you end up with the one that fits best. Explore configurations, set up a test drive, or talk through a trade-in to make your next steps simple. *Not actual model shown in images Request more 2026 Ford Explorer information