2021 Ford Explorer Timberline Wants To Go Off-Road More Than Any Other Explorer Ever

Ford has revealed the new 2021 Explorer Timberline, a new rugged version of its three-row SUV, and the first model to use the new Timberline nameplate.

The carmaker is now accepting orders now for the new 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline, with the first examples to reach dealerships this summer.

As the most off-road-capable Ford Explorer in the range, the new Timberline looks the part with different LED fog lamps, a dark Carbonized Gray front grille with provisions for dealer-installed auxiliary lights, a set of Red Ember tow hooks at the front rated at 150 percent gross vehicle weight, as well as a set of 265/65 all-terrain tires mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Read Also: Make No Mistake, The Ford Bronco Sport Is A Serious Off-Roader

The visual changes also include a new Forged Green metallic exterior color, a blackout treatment around the headlights and taillights, and the obligatory ‘Timberline’ badges.

Heavy-duty shocks from the Police Interceptor and A Torsen Diff

Under the skin of the new 2021 Explorer Timberline, Ford has upgraded the suspension with heavy-duty shocks from the Explorer Police Interceptor, new springs, and stabilizer bars, which in combination with the all-terrain tires give it a 0.8-inch lift, for a minimum ground clearance of 8.7 inches.

At the front, there’s an exclusive rebound spring to reduce sudden jarring during off-road driving. Combined with the model-specific front and rear fascias, the Explorer Timberline offers an approach angle of 23.5 degrees and a maximum departure angle of 23.7 degrees. The standard all-wheel-drive system gains a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, with the Terrain Management System offering seven drive modes.

The steering is also calibrated specifically for the new Explorer Timberline, while the underbody is now protected by a set of standard steel skid plates, starting from the front, covering the engine and transmission, and through the rear, offering greater peace of mind when driving off-road.

More Timberline Ford SUVs on the horizon?

The new Timberline nameplate is another addition to Ford’s off-road stable, following the new Bronco and Bronco Sport, the F-150 Raptor, and the Tremor lineup of pickup trucks. While Ford didn’t detail any future plans with the Timberline badge, it did hint that more of its SUV models could get the same treatment as the Explorer.

“Ford is delivering on more capable SUVs with Timberline. Consumer data has shown us that now more than ever, customers want to get outside and explore nature with friends and family,” said Kumar Galhotra, president, Americas & International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company. “Timberline hits a new sweet spot with these customers who want an ideal combination of passenger space, moderate off-road capability, and great manners around town.”

2.3-L EcoBoost Is Your Only Engine Option

The off-road-focused Timberline variant of the Ford Explorer is powered exclusively by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder unit, producing 300 HP and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford is also offering the Class III Trailer Tow Package as standard, resulting in a 5,300-pound towing capability.

The interior of the 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline features seats trimmed in ActiveX with cloth inserts and standard rubber floor liners for easier cleaning, while the Deep Cypress cabin trim color is combined with an Ebony headliner, overhead console, grab handles, visors, and more. The instrument panel binnacle gets a Stone Mesh applique while Deep Tangerine stitching is applied on the seats, steering wheel, and door panels.

Standard equipment includes heated front seats, Co-Pilot360 and Co-Pilot360 Assist+ with Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Speed Sign Recognition, Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, and voice-activated touchscreen navigation. A 360-degree camera is also standard to give the driver a better view of any obstacles around the vehicle.

Customers will also be offered three “Outfitters” packages – Outfitters SkyBox, Outfitters MegaWarrior, and Outfitters FrontLoader. All three of them add all-weather floor mats, crossbars, and the selected rooftop accessory from Yakima.