FORD RANGER TREMOR
You know you’re in trouble when the people in the house who are not classified as “petrolheads” get excited about the vehicle parked outside that you get to test drive for a week. This was the welcome the Ford Ranger Tremor received. It has a muscular appearance, and is not only easy on the eye, but is great offroad as well.
The Ford Tremor double cab is based on the XLT series, but it still has the offroad ability of the Wildtrak X. There are many crossover points shared between these two which includes the same 154kW/500Nm 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine and full-time four-wheel drive (4WD) system.
The Tremor was the first in the Ranger line-up to feature Pro Trailer Backup Assist with Trailer Reverse Guidance. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro at manoeuvring a trailer, Pro Trailer Backup Assist helps the driver get the trailer positioned where you want it, quickly and easily. It utilises the rotary Selectable Drive Modes controller on the centre console, along with the steering wheel and a suite of cameras to take the guesswork out of reversing the vehicle with a trailer attached.
There are a few distinguishing features to separate the Tremor from the XLT. It sports a black honeycomb off-road front grille and the same LED driving lights as the Wildtrak X. The front bumper and H-bar, fender vents, mirror caps, door handles and rear bumper are a bolder grey colour. With a tough steel bash plate, steel underbody protection for the engine, transfer case and fuel tank, two front tow hooks, cast aluminium side steps and the distinctive long-leg tubular sports bar, it can go anywhere. Tremor is also equipped with the Off-road SYNC Screen with the 360-degree camera system that makes manoeuvring in tight spaces an absolute cinch.
Inside delivers supplant comfort and great ergonomics for the driver and passengers alike. The seats are trimmed in water-resistant black vinyl. In place of traditional carpets, vinyl flooring provides a practical touch that makes cleaning the interior a breeze, even after a muddy off-road adventure.
Taking on any of these conditions, and a whole lot more, with confidence is as easy as selecting the appropriate Drive Mode via the rotary dial, comprising Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl. The system adjusts the throttle response, gearshifts, traction and stability control, rear diff-lock, as well as the steering and braking system to optimise vehicle performance to suit the terrain.
Prices start at R978 600.
By Claire Macfie
