Tremor to shake up Ford Ranger line-up

FORD looks set to bolster, or further bulge, its 22-variant-strong lineup of Ranger options, with a more hardcore version of the mid-range Sport variant, according to government approval documents.

 

News of the likely addition comes just days after Ford Australia announced a limited-run Black Edition, based on the XL bi-turbo model, which adds some black accents for added visual appeal.

 

It seems Ford is either pushing to stay on top, as Ranger continues its streak as the best-selling car in Australia, or it is using its position to justify rolling out every model variant imaginable.

 

In any case, the Tremor is a model Australians are likely to lap up with its beefed-up visuals, clear off-road focus, and ability to tow a full 3500kg.

 

The model launched in New Zealand earlier this year, which is the variant expected to land in Australia, positioning itself above the Sport but below the Wildtrak X, priced from NZ$74,990 plus on-road costs.

 

Adjusted for the Australian dollar, that’s around $68,000 but how exactly Ford will price the model, within the range, is yet to be determined given the Wildtrak X starts at $75,990…

 

Ford’s Tremor variant is closest in spec to the departed FX4 Max that sat below the Raptor, within the last-generation Ranger lineup, but offered similar off-road prowess in a more utilitarian package.

 

The Tremor shares its dynamic upgrades with the Wildtrak X, sitting on a 30mm wider track, front and back, with upgraded Bilstein suspension with remote reservoirs and revised spring rates, adding 24mm of ground clearance.

 

Other off-road focused upgrades include General Grabber AT3 tyres, mounted on tough-looking 17-inch wheels, while steel underbody protection keeps the powertrain out of harm’s way.

 

Unique exterior and interior styling elements separate the model from the Sport variant it’s based on, but Ford has opted for vinyl seats and floors making the cabin easy to clean after off-road adventures. 

 

It also receives roof-mounted auxiliary switches inside, and there is provision in the engine bay for a second battery, making it easy to fit powered accessories like spotlights.

 

Like the Wildtrak X, the Tremor uses the 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder engine, rather than the gruntier V6 diesel engine, with a full-time four-wheel drive system borrowed from V6 models.

 

Ford Australia has not announced the introduction of the Tremor variant locally, but the government documents suggest it is all systems go for the new model. GoAuto has contacted Ford Australia for comment, but we are yet to hear back.