Ford Explorer Timberline revealed – off-road variant gets AWD, LSD, bigger tyres, 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost
6 May 2021 11:01 am / 0 comments
While SUVs are mainly bought by city-dwelling folk these days, Ford says more and more of its customers are taking their cars off the beaten track. To that end, the Blue Oval has become the latest company to introduce a more rugged model called the Explorer Timberline (not to be confused with a certain outdoor boot maker), adding a bit of go-anywhere ability – just like the Subaru Outback Wilderness shown last month.
This trim level blesses Dearborn’s mid-size SUV with a standard variable all-wheel drive system and a new rear Torsen limited-slip differential, with the previously optional Terrain Management System also fitted. This gives the driver seven modes to choose from, including Trail and Deep Snow/Sand, in order to adjust the car’s settings to suit any given terrain. Hill descent control also comes as standard.
Ford Debuts Rugged 2021 Explorer Timberline with Off-Road Gear 5 May 2021, 12:20 UTC ·
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If you re looking for a capable off-roader, Ford has you covered with vehicles like the Bronco, the F-150 Raptor, and Tremor-badged trucks. But now you can also tackle the great outdoors in the Explorer Timberline, a more off-road capable version of the midsize SUV. 15 photos
Ford says a recent survey indicates that people take part in more outdoor activities than before the health crisis, with 40% of the Americans surveyed having said this is so. The Explorer Timberline is an answer for them, but also another way to capitalize on the ever-growing popularity of SUVs.
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 Timberline sits 0.8 inches higher than a standard Explorer thanks to heavy-duty shocks taken from the Explorer Police Interceptor. Combined with high-sidewall Bridgestone Dueler P265/65R-18 all-terrain tires and unique front and rear fasciae, the Explorer Timberline boasts improved clearance. The approach angle is 23.5 degrees, the departure angle is 23.7 degrees, and it offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
This added capability comes with a more rugged look, capped off with a new available Forged Green Metallic exterior color. The Timberline receives a blacked-out look for the logos, the area around the lights, and the wheels, with Red Ember tow hooks acting as the accent color. Built-in LED fog lamps help light the path at night, and the grille includes a wiring harness for dealer-installed Ford Performance auxiliary lights.