Ford unveils the 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline, the newest addition to its SUV lineup.
The Explorer Timberline has the ability to handle off-road terrain starts with Ford’s standard intelligent four-wheel drive.
This system automatically adjusts torque between the wheels based on conditions and driver inputs to deliver traction—providing pre-emptive torque before wheel slip occurs.
Timberline has a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, which automatically sends torque to the wheel with the best traction and prevents the other wheel from spinning to help keep the vehicle moving.
A standard Terrain Management System features seven drive modes—including Trail and Deep Snow/Sand.
Explorer Timberline possesses standard steel skid plates. The underbody protection starts underneath the front, continues under the engine and transmission and through the rear.
Steering calibration, stabilizer bars and springs are specially tuned for Timberline—including a front rebound spring.
The SUV raises the ride height 0.8 inches (19 mm), thanks to a combination off-road-capable heavy-duty and high-sidewall Bridgestone Dueler P265/65R-18 all-terrain tires with a tread pattern.
The engine
The Explorer Timberline features a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The standard Class III Trailer Tow Package brings 5,300 pounds of towing capability.
Interior and exterior design
The vehicle launches in a new Forged Green Metallic exterior colour.
All models feature blackout treatment around the headlamps and taillamps and a black Ford oval, along with Timberline badges on the C-pillars and liftgate.
A set of Red Ember tow hooks at the front are rated at 150% gross vehicle weight. Bridgestone Dueler P265/65R-18 all-terrain tires surround painted aluminum wheels that feature the Timberline logo.
Timberline includes LED fog lamps for illuminating on- and off-road trail edges at night.
The dark Carbonized Grey grille has provisions already incorporated along with a wiring harness for dealer-installed Ford Performance auxiliary lights with an output of 160,000 candelas to illuminate nighttime trails.
The interior of the SUV features an Ebony headliner, an overhead console, A, B and C-pillar trim, grab handles, visors and moonroof shade.
The cabin features a Stone Mesh instrument panel appliqué, Satin Silver Twilight on the centre stack, steering wheel bezel and door armrest trim, Deep Cypress door trim panel inserts, Deep Tangerine stitching on the seats, steering wheel and door trim, plus Timberline logos on the front seats.
Safety features
Timberline has standard Co-Pilot360 and Co-Pilot360 Assist+ technology features that include Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Speed Sign Recognition, Lane Centring, Evasive Steering Assist and voice-activated touch screen navigation.
A standard 360-degree camera provides a view of obstacles around the vehicle.
The 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline is available to order now and arrives at Ford dealers this summer. Starting price For Canada is $50,799.