Ford is retiring the Explorer Timberline in favor of a new off-road trim bearing a familiar name.
On Monday, Ford teased an image showing a Tremor badge—already featured on the F-150, Expedition, and Maverick—affixed to an SUV's tailgate. While Ford stopped short of confirming the vehicle, the visible details match the Explorer precisely, including the nameplate on the tailgate.
2022 Ford Explorer Timberline
The Tremor logically fills the void left by the Timberline, which was conspicuously absent from the Explorer's 2025 model-year refresh. Ford recently added a Tremor variant to the Expedition lineup during its own 2025 update, making an Explorer Tremor a natural move for brand consistency.
Ford has not announced a reveal date or specifications. However, the Expedition Tremor offers useful reference points: skid plates, side steps, all-terrain tires, off-road-tuned suspension, a Rock Crawl mode, and distinctive styling cues including yellow accents, a unique grille with auxiliary lights, and front tow hooks. Expect the Explorer Tremor to receive similar equipment.
2025 Ford Explorer ST
This positioning makes the Tremor a direct successor to the Timberline, which debuted for 2022 with all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension, and unique styling elements. When launched, the Timberline appeared capable of luring Subaru Outback buyers without directly challenging Jeep's off-road dominance.
Beyond the Timberline-to-Tremor transition, Ford's 2025 Explorer refresh brings larger displays, the BlueCruise hands-free driving system, and an updated infotainment system. Built on Google's Android Automotive OS, the new system integrates Google apps natively while retaining Apple CarPlay compatibility.