Ford Pro expanded the Ranger lineup in Europe with the addition of the new Tremor and Wildtrak X variants, designed for those who prioritize off-road performance but find the Raptor a little bit too much for their taste. Both models benefit from an upgraded suspension and other features making them more capable off the beaten track.
The highlight of the new trims is their “substantially reworked chassis” which debuted in the AU-spec Ford Ranger Wildtrak X last week. The long-travel suspension with Bilstein position-sensitive dampers increases ground clearance by 26 mm (1 inch) and improves ride comfort both off-road and on the tarmac. This is combined with wider front and rear tracks, an uprated heavy-duty power steering system, and new electronic systems. Among them is the Trail Turn Assist which brakes the inside wheel to reduce the turning radius on slippery surfaces, the Trail Control which is a low-speed cruise control for off-roading, and the special Rock Crawl mode which comes directly from the Raptor.
Read: 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor Lands In Europe But Only Has 288 HP
Both trims ride on beefier 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires and feature a protective steel bash plate on the front bumper. The Tremor has the basic-looking halogen headlights of the lower-spec XLT, but a series of upgrades including the wheel arch extensions, the cast aluminum side steps, the Boulder Grey accents, and the tubular sports bar on the rear bed make it look more adventurous. Inside, the Tremor features water-resistant vinyl trim on the seats and floor which is easier to clean, and an optional overhead switch pack.
As for the Wildtrak X, it has more upmarket looks thanks to the optional matrix LED headlights, the Asphalt Black grille with the contrasting Cyber Orange detail, the special badges and black Ford emblems, and the bi-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features suede upholstery on the seats and dashboard, Cyber Orange stitching, the 12.4-inch digital instrument, and the larger 12-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Furthermore, Ford’s Flexible Rack System with folding roof racks and a sliding rear load hoop is now an option for the Limited, Tremor, Wildtrak, and Wildtrak X trims of the Ranger, increasing their practicality.
Under the bonnet lies the 2.0-liter EcoBlue bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, producing 202 hp (151 kW / 205 PS) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. Those figures might be inferior to the Platinum’s 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel and the Raptor’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 petrol, but still more than enough for the pickup segment. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic gearbox and the advanced full-time 4WD system.
The Ford Ranger Tremor and Wildtrak X are already available to order in Europe, with the first deliveries expected for August 2023. The Wildtrak X is also available in Australia, bridging the gap between the regular Wildtrak and the Raptor.