The 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline is the all-new beefy off-road variant we’ve been waiting for. Finally, the Ford Explorer will get a more competitive version with off-road capability. The Explorer Timberline will rival off-road SUVs such as Toyota 4Runner. Spy photos of a recent Ford Explorer model are showing it with a new look.
Ford trademarked a couple of names in 2018 and 2019, including the “Badlands,” “Outer Banks,” and “Maverick.” “Badlands.” The sales will begin later in the year, and here’s everything you need to know about this new trim level or package.
2022 Explorer Timberline Will Offer a Lot of Off-Road Equipment
The forthcoming 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline is an off-road- version of the brand’s famous crossover. It has a bit more ground clearance, better traction, and underbody protection, unlike the regular model. It also has grille-mounted LED fog lights that are looking scary and are providing a more aggressive appearance. Similar lights can be found on every Explorer-based police vehicle.
Unlike Ford’s Raptor variant, the Timberline package includes a 0.8-inch lift as well as heavy-duty shock absorbers. The spy photos are showing an orange band across the lower front bumper, as well as body-colored recovery hooks. The Bridgestone Dueler Revo 3s in 265/65R18 tires are on offer and are wrapped around Timberline-branded wheels.
Engine Specs, Transmission
In terms of performances, the new 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline won’t introduce more power. However, numerous mechanical upgrades will happen. The Timberline package offers Torsen limited-slip rear differential, as well as the Explorer’s optional four-wheel drive. Additionally, a seven-mode Terrain Management feature with Hill Descent Control is available too. Steel skid plates will protect the powertrain, which is another novelty. It is a stock 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
Ford offers a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Timberline comes standard with a Class III tow hitch that can tow up to 5300 pounds. This comes as a surprise, as the off-roading variants usually have a more efficient alternative. The Ford Explorer SUV offers a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This engine would make more sense, but it seems unlikely to happen for this off-road package.
2022 Ford Explorer Timberline Release Date and Rivals
At this moment, the price is not available yet. The upcoming 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline will hit the dealerships later in the year, according to the latest reports. This off-road variant will rival the Toyota 4Runner model. The 4Runner has a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This means the Explorer Timberline should be able to keep up with the 3.0-liter engine.
Unfortunately, we will have to wait to find out more. The Explorer Timberline offers great off-road capability that Ford says the consumers want. Besides Timberline, Ford Explorer will also offer the famous King Ranch trim level. This is a logical attempt to boost sales, as Explorer’s sales are declining right now. Whatsoever, before the Coronavirus, Explorer was struggling as its sales dropped by 26-percent.