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NZ Herald
19-07-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
On The Up: Taupō couple race Siberian huskies, share passion for sled dogs
'We had previous large dog experience, but he was untrainable, restless and wouldn't listen.' The Coxheads decided they had to learn to manage him as they had a responsibility towards him. 'We joined the Northern Alaskan Malamute Club and went to a working weekend in the forest,' Steve said. During that weekend, Kaz was introduced to the world of dryland running dog racing. Taniya said he loved it. They raced him through the winter season of 1996. 'This breed is a working dog and needs to run and have a purpose.' The world of husky racing Taniya Coxhead with two of her Siberian huskies. Photo / Catherine Fry Steve wanted to take the racing further. 'I told Taniya that I would love to get a racing team together using Siberian huskies, as Malamutes are big and feisty. 'The Siberian huskies are smaller and are very good pack dogs, with fewer power struggles.' While waiting for their first huskies, the couple prepared to have their own pack. 'We needed harnesses and equipment, including chariots, or rigs as they are known. 'We built our own using parts from all sorts of things and were able to race from 1998 onwards.' They initially raced their first husky, Malinka, as a single dog, then borrowed a dog to race a two-dog rig. In 2002, they ran a four-dog rig. 'Dryland running is with one dog to eight dogs. 'In New Zealand, the majority of races are run on forest trails using wheeled rigs or scooters.' Steve and Taniya are in training for the annual Sled Dog Festival held at the Wairau Snow Farm in Cardrona Valley from September 2 to 6. This location is the only venue where dogs can be run on snow in New Zealand, as the rest of the snow areas are National Parks and dogs are banned. Steve said racing their huskies on snow was the ultimate experience and exactly what they are bred to do. 'While snow isn't a necessity, huskies just love the cold.' Taniya's father, Gary, hand-crafted a wooden sled for the couple's Timberline pack to race on snow. Breeding their own huskies Pack members howling with excitement before they are exercised. Photo / Catherine Fry Over several years, the Coxheads bought 10 pups from the now-retired Ray and Dianne Holliday's Cheechako Kennels. These huskies were from two breeding lines: Northome Kennels from Duluth, Minnesota, and Alaskan Kennels, Anadyr Siberians. Cheechako Arky's Topaz, or Timber as he was known, was a 'great all-round dog'. 'In 2010, we looked at business options near the Snow Farm but decided that the snow season wasn't long enough and we needed a more sustainable business model that would work year-round. '[From there] Timberline Racing Siberian Huskies Kennel and Tours was born.' As the Coxheads were coming to Taupō from Tauranga around 20 times a year, they decided the Central Plateau was the place for their new business to be based and found their current Broadlands property in 2016. It's near the Kaingaroa Forest where they can dryland train their dogs. Taniya and Steve Coxhead. Photo / Catherine Fry Steve was a builder and Taniya is a data administrator. They wanted their tour business to show visitors what the dogs can do and educate them about the breed's needs and traits. 'We bought a 10-acre bare block and I built all the kennels and runs, the shed, our house and outbuildings,' Steve said. They built an 800m fully fenced track enabling the huskies to be exercised daily. On cold days, they can run further, but on hot days, huskies can overheat easily. 'They get very excited when they realise they're getting a run,' Steve said. 'They howl in true husky style until we set off. 'I run them in front of my quadbike and while it looks like they are pulling me, I'm actually letting them run at their speed and I keep up with them.' Using frozen semen from Timber and AI, the Coxheads bred five puppies with River over two litters in 2019/20 and another litter of six from a natural mating with Shawnee and Tor in 2022. 'These puppies are solely for us to keep our racing pack going,' Taniya said. 'When they can no longer race, we retire them and keep them until they pass away – they have a home for life with us.' Timberline use the K9 Petfoods raw meat diet to meet their dogs' nutritional needs, together with a frozen high-performance food.
USA Today
29-06-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor SUV gets new off-road chops, more style
The 2026 Ford Explorer's off-road credibility is in for a boost when the midsize SUV adds a model with the automaker's popular Tremor badge later this year. The Explorer Tremor adds gear, including three steel skid plates, increased ground clearance and a Torsen rear differential. The 2026 Explorer Tremor also gets handsome visual upgrades from bright LED off-road lights across a new grille to 'Electric Spice' orange details. 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Ford key facts On sale late 2025 Standard four-wheel drive 3.0L twin-turbo V6 or 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine 400-hp maximum power 10-speed automatic transmission 31.5-inch Bridgestone all-terrain tires 18-inch gloss black painted wheels with orange highlight Electric spice orange highlights Assembled in Chicago Price: TBA Taking the Explorer off-road — for real, this time The Tremor should add meaningful capability compared with the Explorer's short-lived Timberline trim, which was about looks more than function. Ford discontinued the Timberline after the 2024 model year. The Tremor is an outdoorsy model mirroring the performance-oriented ST in the Explorer lineup. ST prices start at $56,770. It's not unreasonable to expect the Tremor in the same neighborhood. Tremors will be available with either a 2.3L four-cylinder or 3.0L V6 engine. The only performance figures Ford has revealed is 400 hp from the twin-turbo V6. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. A 14-speaker B&O audio system will be available. The Explorer is the second Ford SUV to get a Tremor model, following the Expedition. There are also Tremor models of Ford's pickups. What makes the Explorer Tremor special? The Explorer Tremor's front corners were carved out so the front wheels can tackle big rocks without damaging the fascia. Selecting a new off-road mode modifies throttle response, shift points, traction control, power distribution, 360-degree trail view and an inclinometer. Other unique Tremor touches include: The Tremor will be the first vehicle with the 1.5 version of Ford's Blue Cruise hands-free driving system, which adds fully automatic lane changes to its other features. It shares the upgrades the 2025 Explorer received, including Google navigation, apps and music. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard equipment. Ford is taking orders for the Explorer Tremor now. Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
Miami Herald
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Explorer Tremor: Ford's SUV Gets a Dirt-Ready Makeover
Ford trimmed the Explorer lineup in 2025, from eight variants to just four: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum, effectively dropping the Timberline trim. The decision was aimed at simplifying production, streamlining inventory, and sharpening the Explorer's market identity. But while the new range covered versatility, sportiness, and luxury, something was missing: a truly rugged, trail-ready variant. That void is now filled with the arrival of the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor. Joining the Tremor family, which includes the F-150, Expedition, Super Duty, and Maverick, the Explorer finally gains off-road credentials to match its adventurous name. Replacing the discontinued Timberline model, the Tremor marks a more focused approach to outdoor capability, packaged in a midsize SUV that's still built for family use. More than just a styling package, the new Tremor trim is a functional evolution of the Explorer designed for mud, rocks, and everything in between. Visually, the 2026 Explorer Tremor sets itself apart with a tough new look anchored by 18-inch black alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. A signature Electric Spice accent highlights a wheel spoke and is mirrored on the front and rear tow hooks, adding a splash of color to its rugged stance. Ford also fitted auxiliary off-road lighting, and although it hasn't published the approach and departure angles, they've been improved for trail use. An off-road-tuned suspension with recalibrated springs and sway bars raises the ride height by an inch, giving the Tremor better ground clearance. Underbody protection at both ends shields vital components from trail hazards. Inside, the Tremor blends function with premium features. The cabin includes Ford's latest Digital Experience interface, standard Copilot 360 Assist 2.0, and optional BlueCruise 1.5 for hands-free highway driving. Other high-end amenities – like massaging front seats and a 14-speaker B&O sound system – remind drivers that off-roaders can still have creature comforts. Under the hood, buyers can choose between two EcoBoost engines. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while those craving more punch can opt for the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, shared with the Explorer ST and Ranger Raptor, producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system with a Torsen limited-slip differential. The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is set to arrive in dealerships later this year. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but expect it to land between the ST-Line and Platinum trims. For families looking to trade pavement for trails, the Tremor finally gives the Explorer real off-road substance. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Auto Blog
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
The Explorer Joins Ford's Off-Road-Ready Tremor Lineup
The Toughest Option for the Family-Hauling SUV Ford trimmed the Explorer lineup in 2025, from eight variants to just four: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum, effectively dropping the Timberline trim. The decision was aimed at simplifying production, streamlining inventory, and sharpening the Explorer's market identity. But while the new range covered versatility, sportiness, and luxury, something was missing: a truly rugged, trail-ready variant. That void is now filled with the arrival of the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor. 0:05 / 0:09 2025 Ford Maverick: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Watch More Joining the Tremor family, which includes the F-150, Expedition, Super Duty, and Maverick, the Explorer finally gains off-road credentials to match its adventurous name. Replacing the discontinued Timberline model, the Tremor marks a more focused approach to outdoor capability, packaged in a midsize SUV that's still built for family use. More than just a styling package, the new Tremor trim is a functional evolution of the Explorer designed for mud, rocks, and everything in between. Purpose-Built Design Visually, the 2026 Explorer Tremor sets itself apart with a tough new look anchored by 18-inch black alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. A signature Electric Spice accent highlights a wheel spoke and is mirrored on the front and rear tow hooks, adding a splash of color to its rugged stance. Ford also fitted auxiliary off-road lighting, and although it hasn't published the approach and departure angles, they've been improved for trail use. An off-road-tuned suspension with recalibrated springs and sway bars raises the ride height by an inch, giving the Tremor better ground clearance. Underbody protection at both ends shields vital components from trail hazards. Inside, the Tremor blends function with premium features. The cabin includes Ford's latest Digital Experience interface, standard Copilot 360 Assist 2.0, and optional BlueCruise 1.5 for hands-free highway driving. Other high-end amenities – like massaging front seats and a 14-speaker B&O sound system – remind drivers that off-roaders can still have creature comforts. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Sharing The Ranger Raptor's Powertrain Under the hood, buyers can choose between two EcoBoost engines. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while those craving more punch can opt for the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, shared with the Explorer ST and Ranger Raptor, producing 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system with a Torsen limited-slip differential. The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor is set to arrive in dealerships later this year. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but expect it to land between the ST-Line and Platinum trims. For families looking to trade pavement for trails, the Tremor finally gives the Explorer real off-road substance. About the Author Jacob Oliva View Profile
Car and Driver
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Is an Adventure-Ready SUV for Families
The 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor arrives as an adventure-ready SUV with off-road hardware. The Tremor-spec Explorer features a lifted ride height, all-terrain tires with unique 18-inch wheels, and a limited-slip rear diff. The off-road-ready Explorer offers either a 300-hp turbo four or a 400-hp twin-turbo V-6, but Ford hasn't yet announced pricing. In Ford's world, the Tremor models are like a Diet Raptor. While the Raptors have hardware that helps them race over uneven terrain and withstand the abuse of hard obstacles, the Tremor treatment also provides added underbody protection and off-road-enhancing equipment, just to a lesser degree. Basically, you can launch a Bronco Raptor off a sand dune or drive through up to 37 inches of water, but you wouldn't want to do the same thing with the new 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor. Instead, you can take your family or friends on adventures that would otherwise be inadvisable with the regular version of the three-row mid-size SUV. The Most Rugged Explorer The Tremor isn't the first time Ford has offered an extra-rugged Explorer. The outgoing Timberline trim previously held that title. However, it wasn't offered for the 2025 model year, which is when the Explorer received a substantial makeover, including a redesigned dashboard as well as new and improved tech. Still, much of the off-road-focused equipment that came standard on the Timberline has been adopted by the Tremor. View Exterior Photos Ford The list of upgrades includes underbody skid plates, a retuned suspension with Tremor-specific springs and anti-roll bars, and a one-inch higher ride height that increases the approach and departure angles, making it easier to climb up and over things. Every Explorer Tremor also rolls on knobby Bridgestone Dueler all-terrain tires mounted on unique 18-inch wheels, which include a distinctive orange pocket that helps easily identify the valve stem when it's time to air down or air up the tires. That orange color—which Ford calls "electric spice"—also appears on the front tow hooks and on the element that bisects the front grille and houses a pair of LED lights. Under the hood, the Tremor-grade Explorer comes standard with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 300 horsepower. A Torsen limited-slip rear differential also helps the standard all-wheel-drive system muster more traction when needed. For those who want a little extra mustard when they hit the gas pedal, the Tremor is available with the same engine that powers the sporty Explorer ST. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 produces a stout 400 horses and 415 pound-feet of torque. View Interior Photos Ford Inside, the Tremor has the same 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system found in every other 2026 Explorer. Of course, the Tremor alone has flashy orange contrast stitching, handsome trim on the dash and doors, and its name in the front seatbacks. While a 360-degree camera system comes standard, you'll have to pay extra for the massaging front seats and 14-speaker B&O stereo. Ford's Blue Cruise hands-free drive mode is also available, with version 1.5 introducing automatic lane-change functionality. Ford says the 2026 Explorer Tremor is now available to order, although it won't reach dealerships until sometime later this year. We also haven't yet received word on how much the adventure-ready Explorer will cost. We'd wager its starting price will be somewhere around $52K, but we'll have to wait a while to know for sure. Eric Stafford Managing Editor, News Eric Stafford's automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual '97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a '90 Honda CRX Si. Read full bio
