Ford debuted the Timberline trim this year on the Explorer large crossover, but officials note there’s an appetite for more off-road capability, even in Ford’s largest product.
Marentic said outdoor activities account for about $900 billion in annual U.S. consumer spending, with 114 million people participating. Ford hopes the Expedition Timberline will help the company capture more of that market among large families — and fend off the arrival of the Wagoneer.
Ford says the Expedition Timberline will come with improved approach and departure angles and the same underbody skid plate found on the F-150 Raptor. A ground clearance of 10.6 inches beats the Wagoneer, officials say.
It will be powered by Ford’s high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, which gets 440 hp and 510 pound-feet of torque, which Ford notes is more powerful than the Wagoneer’s V-8.
The Timberline trim will come with unique badging and interior materials. On the outside, it will feature a unique grille and orange accents.
The automaker also is adding a new Stealth Edition performance package as an option on Limited and Limited Max models. The package includes gloss-black exterior accents, black badging and red brake calipers.
It also features the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine.