By Malusi Msomi

Did you feel that? No, it’s not an earthquake – it’s the Ford Ranger Tremor making its presence known! This new addition to the Ranger line-up, based on the XLT, recently rocked our driveway. With its rugged features and off-road readiness, the Tremor means business, and we couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel.

Tremor styling

The Tremor is the kind of bakkie that says, “I’m tough, but I clean up nice.” Sporting a black honeycomb off-road grille and Bolder Grey accents, it’s ready for both the trail and the tar. The bold look is completed by 17-inch Asphalt Black machine-faced alloy rims wrapped in General Grabber AT3 tires with white lettering—because why should the Jeep guys have all the fun? The Ranger Tremor comes with some attitude in terms of styling, giving you the same rugged lifestyle vibe, you’d expect from its cousins, the Wildtrak and Wildtrak X.

Tremor interior

Step inside the Tremor, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends toughness with tech. Leather seats embroidered with the ‘Tremor’ logo, a digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remind you that this isn’t just a workhorse—it’s a lifestyle vehicle, too. Need to tackle those tricky off-road sections? The Off-road SYNC Screen with a 360-degree camera system has your back. Oh, and did I mention wireless charging? This bakkie is more connected than some people’s homes!

The vinyl floor mats add a touch of practicality, especially if your weekends involve a bit of mud, dust, or whatever nature throws your way. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors but don’t want to spend Monday morning scrubbing carpets.

Performance and driving impressions

The 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine under the bonnet is a powerhouse, pumping out 154 kW and a hefty 500 Nm of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford’s full-time four-wheel drive system, the Tremor handles smoothly, whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling rough terrain. Sharing the same suspension as the Wildtrak X, it’s more than ready to handle the off-road challenges with ease.

Ford claims a fuel consumption of 7.5 L/100km, which is impressive for a bakkie with this much muscle. But during our stint, we found ourselves sitting around 10 L/100km. While the Lucid Red colour on our test model had us turning heads, it’s the overall driving experience that really stands out—smooth gear shifts, solid handling, and a sense of capability wherever you go.

Verdict

With a starting price of R978,600, the Ford Ranger Tremor is not just a bakkie—it’s a statement. It’s perfect for those who want to mix rugged off-road capability with everyday practicality, all while maintaining a bit of style and luxury. If you’re looking for something that feels like the Wildtrak but with a unique twist, the Tremor is ready to rock your world.