The departure of the Timberline trim after the 2024 model year left the Ford Explorer without a dedicated off-road variant, but that just leaves it wide open for the inevitable introduction of the Tremor trim. With that in mind, below, Ford Authority discusses everything we know and expect from the Ford Explorer Tremor.
Given that the 2025 Ford Explorer represents a comprehensive refresh for the crossover, we expect the Explorer Tremor to offer a very similar equipment line to the now-discontinued Timberline, essentially replacing it. That means a host of big-ticket features like standard meaty all-terrain tires and tough steel skid plates to protect its more sensitive bits. It will almost certainly feature the Torsen limited-slip differential as well, along with off-road struts and rear shocks, all of which were standard Timberline equipment.
Of course, it will also get aesthetic goodies that set it apart from the rest of the lineup. It’s likely to receive the blacked-out exterior elements lifted off the Timberline trim, along with a special, exclusive grille and Tremor branding throughout its exterior and interior.
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding the Ford Explorer Tremor is where exactly the trim will be positioned in the lineup. Considering that the 2025 Ford Maverick Tremor is now the model’s range-topping trim, and that the overhauled 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor is positioned at the more expensive side of the lineup, we expect the Ford Explorer Tremor to be a bit on the pricier end of the scale, too. That said, it could fill the gap between the $45,000 2025 Explorer ST-Line and the $53,000 Platinum – which are separated by a cool $8,000 – meaning the Tremor could possibly split the difference, perhaps starting around the $48,000 mark.
There’s also the question of what engine the Ford Explorer Tremor will harness. The Timberline trim used the turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine, which would be a perfect engine for the Tremor trim, too. In fact, Ford Authority spotted a prototype Expedition Tremor undergoing testing late last year. Notably, this prototype didn’t feature quad exhaust outlets, which is exclusively seen on vehicles featuring the turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6, so it’s unlikely that the Tremor will utilize this engine at all.
Production of the 2025 Explorer range kicked off in May 2024 at the Chicago Assembly plant. The crossover began shipping to dealers last summer.
Comments
Oh lookie. It’s Jimmy’s BoyRacer special niche trim Of The Week!
Another very expensive trim package and one more step to oblivion for Ford
It looked like Ford was poised to launch a Timberline trim with the 2025 update that basically carried over the same fascia, but they must have sent it back to the drawing board last minute to make it a more serious Tremor package. Explorer’s platform isn’t a natural fit for this type of upfit, but it might coincide with Farley’s mission o make Ford the Porsche of off-roading.
Ford should be looking to Ranger for its next Tremor, not the unibody Explorer… it makes the most sense for a mid-size truck, yet still lacking in the NA market! I’ll be the first to order one. There is a huge hole in the Ranger lineup between the FX4 and Ranger Raptor and a Tremor Ranger (especial with the 2.7l) would be a perfect fit.
How about a 2 door version?
While no one in their right mind would mistake a 3-row Explorer for a proper off-roader — we have the Bronco for that — if they don’t give this significantly more ground clearance, any other upgrades like any skid plates will just be window dressing. I guess that’s what some folks want.
Consumers: we just want the hybrid back.
Ford: here’s another trim level similar to the ST but costs way more.