Ford refreshed its popular Explorer three-row SUV for 2025. The brand unveiled a new, simplified trim lineup of Active, ST-Line, ST and a Platinum trim. The off-road-oriented Timberline trim from the previous model was conspicuously absent; Ford intimated at the launch event that something further was coming, and that has now been confirmed.
On Instagram,
Ford CEO Jim Farley announced that a new Ford Explorer Tremor model is coming very soon.
The Explorer Tremor Replaces The Explorer Timberline
Ford has traditionally used “Tremor” in its truck lineup as a stand-alone F-150 trim and a Maverick off-road package. It’s basically an off-road upgrade package that provides more capability but doesn’t go full-on Raptor. For the F-150, Tremor is equivalent to the Z71 Package for the Chevrolet Silverado or the Rebel trim for the Ram 1500.
Ford had been using Timberline for the more off-road-oriented Explorer and Expedition SUVs. Now, the revamped Explorer is following the Expedition with a new Tremor trim.
What Will The Ford Explorer Tremor Package Bring?
We don’t know yet. Farley did not provide additional details about the Explorer Tremor package. The teaser photo of the bottom of the tailgate badge provides little tangible info. But judging from the Expedition’s changeover, we expect the Tremor will not be too dissimilar from the previous Timberline package.
The Explorer Timberline enhanced the Explorer’s appearance. But it was more than just an appearance package. It added an off-road suspension with components from the police interceptor model, a 0.8-inch lift, all-terrain tires, a limited-slip differential, functional skid plates and tow hooks.
Don’t expect too many options for the Explorer Tremor, at least at the factory level. Ford made a big push to cut costs for the 2025 Explorer by limiting the model’s complexity. So, it’s likely to be sold as one package without many a la carte features (profitable third-party accessories from dealers could be an exception).
TopSpeed’s Take
Launching the Explorer Tremor is a no-brainer for Ford. The 2025 Explorer lineup had value, premium and street-oriented trims. An off-road-focused model fills out that lineup. One could argue that having Timberline and Tremor was trying to make two sub-brands happen where one would do. And connecting the Explorer to the truck lineup is smart. The ruggedness, durability, and capability of the F-150 pickup resonate with buyers, even if they are buying the three-row family crossover that fits their needs. The Explorer Timberline won’t be an off-road supercar, but it’s the type of vehicle that helps Ford pay for them.
If we are quibbling, we’d hope Ford upgrades the Explorer Timberline’s interior. Small touches like a larger touchscreen and better sound deadening could make the Explorer Tremor feel slightly more premium than the Timberline did.
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