2023 Ford Ranger Tremor off-roader revealed for Europe, “no news” for Australia

The global Ford Ranger line-up has expanded with a new Tremor variant for Europe.

Ford’s local arm said it had “no news to share around Ranger Tremor for Australia right now” – but the variant could preview a potential rival to the Nissan Navara SL Warrior off-roader.

It shares its underpinnings with the Wildtrak X flagship revealed for Australia last week, bringing new Bilstein-tuned dampers and a Raptor-lite wider track.

However, it is based on Europe’s XLT variant – similar in specification to our XLS – with halogen headlights, and “water-resistant” vinyl seats and flooring for a more-attainable price point.

For context, a stock bi-turbo Ranger XLS 4x4 dual-cab is listed at $54,730 before on-road costs, while the Navara SL Warrior is priced at $60,500 plus on-roads for the automatic – opening the door for an off-road-focused variant at around $60,000 in Australia.

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As with the Wildtrak X, the Tremor is exclusively powered by the 150kW/500Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine, matched to a 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system.

This engine will meet the stricter Euro 6 light-duty truck emissions standard, requiring AdBlue diesel exhaust fluid – as seen in all Euro-market Rangers, and the related Everest and Volkswagen Amarok.

The addition of a Raptor-like wider frame sees the front and rear track width increased by 30 millimetres – adding to the range-wide 50mm increase compared to the previous-generation Ranger – while ground clearance is up 26mm over the XLS 4x4, to 258mm.

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Under the skin, Ford has fitted wheel and suspension improvements, highlighted by Bilstein-sourced ‘position-sensitive’ dampers, as found in the Wildtrak X.

This updated system allows the dampers to automatically adjust to the terrain, with ‘end stop control valve’ technology for greater off-road performance, while also improving on-road dynamics.

Other new additions include; 17-inch black alloy wheels, chunkier 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres, and Trail Turn Assist – a Ford Bronco-derived feature – to reduce the vehicle’s turning radius by up to 25 per cent on narrow tracks by applying the brake to the inside rear wheel.

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It can be engaged under 19km/h when the vehicle is engaged in either 4H or 4L, with the rear differential unlocked.

In addition, the Tremor will feature the flagship Raptor’s Trail Control off-road cruise function to maintain a constant set speed below 32km/h while off-roading, and a rock crawl drive mode tuned for “uneven, rocky terrain in a controlled manner at low speed.”

External revisions include; cast aluminium side steps, exposed front tow hooks, boulder grey exterior accents, and a darkened grille.

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Ford’s new flexible rack system will be optional, with a standard-fit black sports bar. The overhead auxiliary switch bank is also available on the options list.

The 2023 Ford Ranger Tremor will become available for pre-order in Europe this month, with first deliveries to commence in August.

“Ranger Tremor is an exciting new addition to the global Ranger line-up, as announced by Ford of Europe overnight. We have no news to share around Ranger Tremor for Australia right now,” said Ford Australia.

Below: The 2023 Ford Ranger XLS, in dual-cab 4x4 guise

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