Ford Explorer Timberline Specs Reflect Off-road Capability

The new 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline is the first in a series of planned off-road-tuned SUVs from the Michigan-based automaker. Ford says the 2021 Explorer Timberline is “the first Timberline series Ford SUV,” suggesting that the automaker plans to make it a sub-brand similar to Subaru’s new Wilderness models.

Calling it “the most off-road-capable Explorer ever,” Ford creates the Explorer Timberline by:

• Revising the suspension with new shocks, springs, and stabilizer bars
• Increasing ground clearance, approach, and departure angles
• Installing steel skid plates
• Adding a limited-slip differential
• Supplying standard all-terrain tires
• Modified styling for more capability and a rugged look

Additionally, the Explorer Timberline features a standard 4-wheel-drive system that continuously adjusts power delivery based on surface conditions and driving requirements. A Terrain Management System is also standard, supplying seven different modes to maximize traction. Every Explorer Timberline also has hill descent control, limiting speed to no more than 12 mph on steep downgrades.

Ground clearance improves 0.8-inch to a total of 8.7 inches. Redesigned front and rear bumpers increase the approach angle to 23.5 degrees and the departure angle to 23.7 degrees. The P265/65R18 Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires wrap around gloss black wheels and feature a tread pattern designed for both on-road and off-road driving.

To keep the Explorer Timberline’s price and ownership costs down, it comes with the SUV’s standard turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. With 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, it powers all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing capacity is 5,300 pounds.

Ford is launching the Explorer Timberline in a new Forged Green Metallic paint color. It also comes with Deep Cypress (green) Active-X water-resistant simulated leather upholstery featuring dark orange stitching and gray heathered cloth inserts. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel are standard.

Blacked-out exterior trim and red tow hooks add to the modern off-roader look, while the cabin gets a black headliner, stone-pattern mesh dashboard trim, and satin silver center console surfaces. Rubber floor liners help to make cleaning up after adventures easier.

Ford Co-Pilot360 and Co-Pilot360 Assist+ advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) are standard on every Explorer Timberline. The SUV also features voice-activated navigation and a 360-degree surround-view camera with a separate forward view to help drivers see better when cresting hills.

Yakima rooftop accessories will be available in the Outfitters SkyBox, Outfitters MegaWarrior, and Outfitters FrontLoader accessory packages.

The Ford Explorer Timberline release date is scheduled for the summer of 2021. Prices will be available closer to its arrival at dealerships.

Ford Motor Company is the source of information for this article. It was accurate on May 5, 2021, but it may have changed since that date.