For rough terrain, a slight suspension lift, all-terrain wheels, and a limited-slip rear differential should keep things moving.
Thanks to its iconic nameplate and turbocharged engine lineup, the current Ford Explorer has been a hot-selling model. Ford’s sixth-generation Explorer is back to its roots as a rear-drive crossover, though it still uses unibody construction.
The Dirty Bits
Timberline is a trim level that’s dedicated and not just a package. It also offers plenty of off-road technology and hardware, beautiful styling, and some highly-valued luxury bits. Heavy-duty Police Interceptor Utilities shocks are located under the skin. The four-wheel independent suspension has been adjusted for off-road use. It is lifted 0.8 inches for an 8.7-inch total ground clearance. This is less than the Subaru Outback Wilderness or Toyota 4Runner, but more than the Subaru Ascent or Jeep Grand Cherokee.
The lift can also accommodate 265/65R18 Bridgestone Dueler/T tires on Timberline-specific wheels. Explorer Timberline adds to that capability by adding a Torsen limited slip rear differential. This allows both rear wheels to move even when one loses traction. This is useful in snowy, slippery conditions as well as when the rear wheel is off the ground completely.
Sitting Pretty
The Explorer Timberline has an additional suite of off-road features, which is why the trim level gets a new appearance. The trim level is available in Forged Green Metallic. It also features blackout treatments on the taillight surrounds and headlights. Pre-wired for Ford Performance auxiliary lights dealer-installed, the unique Carbonized Gray grille makes it ideal for nighttime offroading. It boasts 169,000 lumens.
Red Ember accents are found on the front bumper, tow hooks and tailgate. The Timberline logo is also visible on the C-pillar and tailgate and on the gloss black 18-inch wheels. The bumper’s black plastic cladding extends to the rear cargo area. This allows for more space when lifting heavy items into the back. Extensive underbody skid plates (engine, transmission, differential) prevent damage from accidental accidents when you push the limits.
Explorer Timberline’s interior features Deep Cypress upholstery with cloth inserts in ActiveX vinyl seats. This allows for easy cleaning and prevents sliding over bumps. Deep Tangerine contrast stitching is found on the steering wheel, doors panels and seats. This recalls the Red Ember exterior bits. The dashboard also gets a unique “stone mesh”, applique that almost looks like forged Carbon. Anyone who loves playing in the snow or mud will love the standard heated front seats and heated steering wheel. Rubber floor liners and heated steering wheels will also be a delight.
The Timberline’s safety tech suite will be appreciated by everyone else. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ are standard features. They include stop-and-go adaptive cruise controller, evasive steer assist, lane centering and traffic sign recognition. Standard is a surround-view camera, with the front view being most helpful when climbing blind hills off-road.
Family Relativity
The Timberline, like other Explorers (except the heavy ST or luxury-trim Platinum), has a turbocharged inline-four 2.3-liter engine. It is mated with a 10-speed auto transmission. The Explorer Timberline’s maximum towing weight is 5,300 pounds. It comes with a Class III towing package, 300 horsepower, and 310 pounds (222.3 kilowatts, 420 newton meters). This is slightly more than the Subaru Ascent (5,000 pounds) and Toyota 4Runner (5,000lbs), but less than the properly equipped Jeep Grand Cherokee (7.200 pounds). It should still be sufficient for most boats and camp trailers.
According to Ford, it is the seventh rugged Ford vehicle since 2019. The Explorer Timberline is more in line with the F-150 Raptor or Bronco for off-road capability, thanks to its unibody construction and single-speed four-wheel-drive transmission case. It should still be a success if it delivers the same fun on the trails its compact SUV sibling. The Ford Explorer Timberline order books are open. First deliveries will be made this summer.