In the U.S., the current-gen Ford Explorer is set to receive a refresh for the 2024 model year. In fact, Ford Authority has already spotted the forthcoming crossover on multiple occasions, giving us a look at its updated interior, as well as the high-performance ST and off-road-focused Timberline variants. Meanwhile, in China, the refreshed Explorer for that particular market leaked back in February of 2022 before launching last October, sporting some unique styling cues when compared to the North American version. Fast forward to January, and we got our first look at the Chinese Ford Explorer Timberline, which looks a bit different than the American version. Now, the Chinese market Ford Explorer Timberline has officially debuted at the Shanghai International Auto Show.
The Blue Oval calls the Ford Explorer Timberline “the most capable Explorer ever,” and in China, this more rugged model comes equipped with a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, increases ground clearance, and REVO3 all-terrain tires. It also looks quite a bit different than its North American counterpart, sporting a unique Altyn Tagh Orange exterior paint color and various mountain pattern elements throughout, while the interior is chock full of plenty of contrast colors as well.
Dimensionally speaking, the Chinese Ford Explorer Timberline is roughly the same size as its American counterpart, while tire size is also the same at P265/65R18. However, the wheel design present here is a bit different, as it’s painted black, but one section is finished in orange, much like the Ford Maverick Tremor. There are plenty of other unique styling elements present here as well, including a front grille with oval-shaped cutouts, orange tow hooks, and a two-tone paint treatment with an orange center (a color that isn’t available on the U.S.-spec Explorer Timberline), which is accented by a black roof and black lower body cladding. In the rear, “Explorer” and “Timberline 4WD” badging is joined by “Changan Ford” – the automaker’s joint venture in that country – which is written in Chinese.
“The Chinese market holds strategic significance for Ford,” said Sam Wu, president and CEO of Ford China. “At the show, this must-have Ford showcase offers features that bring to life the brand’s strengths to create products and experiences that resonate with Chinese customers.”
We’ll have more on the Explorer soon, so subscribe to Ford Authority for the latest Ford Explorer news and continuous Ford news coverage.
Comments
Looks like Ford is going Chinese goodbye!!!!!
Does it piss any else off that Ford continues to refresh and upgrade technology in their overseas models well before their North American models?…….as a 21 Explorer ST owner suffering every day with that absolute failure called SYNC3, and my 7th TSB/SSM Im so angry at this I’m going to buy a Genesis GV70
Ford can take the Chinese batteries and all that overpriced electric vehicles and ride off into the sunset. Wait i really mean go out of business
It’s like the ford motor Co doesn’t care about American customers at all.
It’s all about the money and ONLY the money. No loyalty to anyone anylonger.
That’s right. It’s called capitalism, the foundation of the modern USA.
I would really like to buy a Ford Explorer, but I am not impressed with the current model. The Chinese version is much more appealing, but since it won’t be available stateside, I will move on to the new Honda Pilot or Mazda CX90.
The updated Explorer is coming to the US market, just not at the same time as the Chinese model. The models run on different schedules. Why? Part of the reason is that it’s easier to launch a vehicle (or any product, for that matter) faster in China than in the U.S.