Take six friends off-roading.
We haven’t seen many Ford Expedition test cars out in the public. The full-size SUV will soon get a minor refresh, as well as new trim levels. While we recently saw an Expedition Hybrid out and about, today’s prototype is more rugged. We have reason to believe Ford will offer a beefy Expedition Timberline and some notable off-road upgrades.
How did we arrive at such a conclusion? First, the Expedition test vehicle is a bit higher than other models. This is especially evident when you take a look at the rear suspension. And speaking of which, the lower arms appear a lot more robust than stock parts.
The engine’s underside is protected by a skid plate at the front. But the most important clue lies with the front wheels. They look familiar? They do, as we saw them in a Ford Explorer Timberline testing vehicle back January. We bet that you will find red accents on your fascia if you take off the camo in the front clip.
What is the under-hood situation? Although our sources don’t have much information, the dual exhaust tips at back point to the EcoBoost V6 high-output engine. The current Expedition’s twin-turbocharged mill produces 400 horsepower (298 kilowatts), but it could be possible to get a higher power output for the Timberline model. It should also offer additional driving modes to suit a wide range of off-road conditions.
We have much more research ahead of us to find out more information about this Expedition. We feel comfortable calling this a Timberline Edition, given the difference in ride height and the wheels. Ford will also unveil the updated Expedition in 2022, we are confident.