Heavy-duty shocks from the Police Interceptor and A Torsen Diff
Under the skin of the new 2021 Explorer Timberline, Ford has upgraded the suspension with heavy-duty shocks from the Explorer Police Interceptor, new springs, and stabilizer bars, which in combination with the all-terrain tires give it a 0.8-inch lift, for a minimum ground clearance of 8.7 inches.
At the front, there’s an exclusive rebound spring to reduce sudden jarring during off-road driving. Combined with the model-specific front and rear fascias, the Explorer Timberline offers an approach angle of 23.5 degrees and a maximum departure angle of 23.7 degrees. The standard all-wheel-drive system gains a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, with the Terrain Management System offering seven drive modes.
The Timberline sits 0.8 inches higher than a standard Explorer thanks to heavy-duty shocks taken from the Explorer Police Interceptor. Combined with high-sidewall Bridgestone Dueler P265/65R-18 all-terrain tires and unique front and rear fasciae, the Explorer Timberline boasts improved clearance. The approach angle is 23.5 degrees, the departure angle is 23.7 degrees, and it offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
This added capability comes with a more rugged look, capped off with a new available Forged Green Metallic exterior color. The Timberline receives a blacked-out look for the logos, the area around the lights, and the wheels, with Red Ember tow hooks acting as the accent color. Built-in LED fog lamps help light the path at night, and the grille includes a wiring harness for dealer-installed Ford Performance auxiliary lights.
The popular Ford Explorer three-row SUV will add an off-road-oriented model this summer in a bid to attract new customers and compete with the upcoming Jeep Grand Cherokee L, which was developed to win some of the same family buyers the Explorer caters to.
The summer arrival of the 2021 Explorer Timberline opens a new front in the hotly competitive battle for SUV sales. SUVs now account for more than 55% of U.S. vehicle sales.
The Timberline gets a Torsen limited slip rear differential, 0.8-inch increased ride height, bright orange front tow hooks and other goodies to set it apart from run of the mill Explorers.
Ford s Explorer Timberline makes the everyday an adventure theglobeandmail.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from theglobeandmail.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.