In mid-2023, Ford introduced the Wildtrak X as the Ranger family’s certified, from-the-factory-floor off-roader. Not even a year later, the Tremor model arrived with similar work cut out for it. We dive into what differentiates the two off-road-focused Ford Rangers.
The Wildtrak X is the more upmarket offering of the two, and the recommended retail price of R1 040 600 (as of June 2024) reflects that when compared with the Ranger Tremor, which hits the market at R978 600. Kyle Kock contextualised the position of both models in his Tremor review writing:
Essentially, the Tremor is based on the XLT model Ranger, which is sort of mid-spec in the range, but the Tremor is more focused on off-road adventure. Just as the Wildtrak X sits above the Wildtrak the Tremor also sits above the XLT.
Both models come with Ford Protect, which includes a four-year or 120 000 km warranty, four-year unlimited distance roadside assistance, and a five-year unlimited distance corrosion warranty. Service intervals are set at 15 000 km or annually. A service or maintenance plan is optionally available.
So the question stands, what constitutes the R62 000 price gap?
DESIGN
Wildtrak X
Exterior distinctions on the Wildtrak X include a new grille with integrated auxiliary lights, Matrix LED headlights and a steel bash plate, along with cast aluminium side steps, Wildtrak X badging, Black Ford oval badges, and Asphalt black finishing on elements like the bumpers and wheel-lip mouldings. The Flexible Rack System serves as both stylistic differentiator and functional feature, as do the meaty 265/70 R17 General Grabber all-terrain tyres, fitted to 17-inch Asphalt Black machine-faced alloy wheels.
Related: Ford Ranger Tremor: SUV Shootout 2024’s unsung hero
Ranger Tremor
Based on the Ranger’s XLT series, the Tremor receives a unique aesthetic, showcasing a black honeycomb off-road front grille, LED auxiliary driving lights (though not the adaptive Matrix LEDs), and striking Bolder Grey exterior accents. It includes wheel arch extenders and the same alloys and General Grabbers as the Wildtrak X. A black Ford Oval completes the Tremor’s unique appearance. While the Tremor does not come equipped with a flexible rack system, a tubular black sports bar stretching the length of the load bin sets it apart from other members of the Ranger family.
INTERIOR
Wildtrak X
The Wildtrak X’s interior features leather seats with Miko suede trim, Cyber Orange stitching, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, with high levels of luxurious interior touches compared with other Ranger variants. Six auxiliary switches between the driver and passenger prepare the vehicle for additional overlanding gear, based on the prediction that buyers of the Wildtrak X will be interested in adding aftermarket equipment to their bakkie. The Wildtrak X also comes with front and rear USB ports.
Ranger Tremor
The Tremor does away with a traditional carpeted floor, as it’s fitted with a thick layer of vinyl that’s easily washed clean. Equally, the seats are not wrapped in leather but a waterproof vinyl that can be easily wiped down. The Tremor benefits from the same six auxiliary switches found on Wildtrak X, while only featuring front USB ports.
OFF-ROAD CAPABILITY
The selling point for both the Wildtrak X and Tremor is that they come off the factory line equipped for off-roading and ready to accommodate aftermarket modifications and electrics with the inclusion of the auxiliary switches. Where the Wildtrak X pioneered much of the new off-roading technology introduced by Ford, the Tremor picks up the same features but packages them in a slightly less luxurious, more rugged vehicle.
Wildtrak X
The Wildtrak X rides on a chunky, striking set of General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres wrapped around 17-inch alloys. These wheels work in tandem with Bilstein position-sensitive dampers, improving control and comfort on rougher terrains. The ground clearance is raised by 26 mm and a 30 mm wider stance enhances its stability. Power is sent to all four wheels via an optional on-demand four-wheel-drive system, featuring four-wheel high range, permanent four-wheel drive, and four-wheel low range. The Wildtrak X also features a rear-locking differential. Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl, optimizing performance for various terrains.
Related: Why the Wildtrak X is the ultimate over-land bakkie
Advanced off-road technologies include Trail Turn Assist, which reduces the turning radius, Trail Control for maintaining consistent speed on difficult terrains, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist to aid in controlling the direction of a trailer while reversing. Additional features like a steel bash plate, cast-aluminium side steps, and a Flexible Rack System add to the Wildtrak X’s off-road readiness.
Ranger Tremor
The Ranger Tremor has the same… everything. The same selectable four-wheel drive system, rear-locking differential, low-range transfer and all-terrain driving modes. The advanced suite of off-road technology is included too. It shares the Wildtrak X’s Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers, providing a 24 mm increase in ground clearance and a 30 mm wider track, and is also equipped with a steel bash plate, underbody protection, and cast aluminium side steps.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The Wildtrak X and Ranger Tremor come exclusively with Ford’s refined 2,0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine that pushes out 154kW and 500N.m, paired with a ten-speed automatic shifter. While both automatic shifters access ten gears, they differ in appearance and name, with the Wildtrak dubbed the e-Shifter, and the Tremor’s more old-school-looking one named the Mechanical Shifter.
While the standard Wildtrak comes with a V6 option, it was explained to me by David Grice, the Chief Program Engineer on Ranger and Everest, that the 2,0-litre bi-turbo was a choice made with fuel economy in mind, for an off-road dedicated vehicle. A case could be made for the increased towing capabilities offered by a V6, but I suppose it becomes a matter of preference then; tow more weight or use less fuel. Both the Tremor and Wildtak X have a braked towing capacity of 3 500 kg, a wading capacity of 800 mm, and a load-carrying capacity of 966 L.
While the Tremor comes with standard cruise control, the Wildtrak X boasts active adaptive cruise control.
SUMMARY
The Wildtrak X distinguishes itself with a more striking exterior design and an interior made more luxurious through orange stitching and suede accents. Comfort items like the rear USB ports and adaptive cruise control add to the upmarket offering, and the Flexible Rack system is an awesome, useful feature for those intent on adventure.
When weighed up against its younger sibling, the Wildtrak X does not differ in performance or off-road capability, the latter being the pulling factor for both vehicles. The price difference between the two is not remarkable, but it is not negligible either. At R62 000 more, in the Wildtrak X, you have a bakkie that fits the aesthetic (both inside and out) of the lifestyle double-cab that consumers have come to adore, whereas the Tremor offers customers a more rugged, bare-bones version with the same off-road prowess. Ultimately, the off-road-driven character of both vehicles is what sets them apart in the double-cab market, and the choice between the two comes down to trim level.
