Ford is adding a ‘Timberline’ variant to the 2021 Explorer lineup, which promises to offer more rugged looks and off-road capabilities. In fact, Ford claims the Explorer Timberline to be the most off-road-capable Explorer ever.
And that is because the Timberline gets an additional 0.8-inch (20.3 mm) of ground clearance, thanks to a combination of heavy-duty off-road-capable shocks — originally developed for Explorer Police Interceptor — and high-sidewall Bridgestone Dueler P265/65 R18 all-terrain tires. In addition, the revised front and rear bumpers have resulted in better approach and departure angles of 23.5-degrees and 23.7-degrees, respectively. Steel skid plates come standard; the underbody protection covers the engine and transmission. Visually, the Timberline manages to look sporty with subtle red accents and high-gloss black aluminum wheels. Notice the laser-etched Timberline logo on the wheels.
Ford also claims that the steering, stabilizer bars and springs are specially calibrated for the Timberline. Other off-road credentials include a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, Terrain Management System with 7 driving modes (including Trail and Deep Snow/Sand), and Hill Descent Control. Inside, the dashboard features a Stone Mesh appliqué; satin silver appliqués on the center stack, steering wheel bezel and door armrest trim, and Tangerine stitching and Timberline logo on the front seats.
Other equipment includes LED fog lamps and the optional (dealer-installed) Ford Performance auxiliary lights (with an output of 160,000 candelas) on the dark Carbonized Gray grille. Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of active safety and driver assistance systems comes standard.
The Explorer Timberline is powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that develops 224 kW (305 metric hp) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and AWD system. The standard Class III Trailer Tow Package brings 2,404 kg (5,300 lbs) of towing capability.
Recommended for you
Leave a Reply
Note: Comments that are unrelated to the post above get automatically filtered into the trash bin.
