FIVE best every-day features on the NEW Ford Ranger Tremor

We were lucky enough to enjoy an extended test of the Ford Ranger Tremor over the December holidays. And even though we’ve driven one at the South African launch and on test, this extra time allowed us to get truly acquainted with the tremendous Tremor …

FORD RANGER TREMOR

While the Tremor’s off-road capabilities (uprated Bilstein shocks, wider track, raised ride height and General Tire AT tyres) and the Bi-Turbo 2.0-litre grabs headlines, it’s the practical elements that prove more valuable in day-to-day ownership. In the Tremor they represent thoughtful engineering focused on real-world usability rather than just big-bakkie bravado. So, without further a due, here are our top five Ranger Tremor every-day features …

1. FOLD-OUT CUPHOLDERS

It’s something you’ll easily overlook on a short, punchy test drive. However, after spending several weeks with the Tremor, we must applaud the cleverly designed fold-out cupholders. These sturdy elements emerge smoothly from the dashboard and accommodate everything up to a large coffee cup. When not needed, they fold away neatly, maintaining the cabin’s clean appearance.

2. PLASTIC FLOOR MATS

Arguably its best feature for hardy South Africa, the Ford Ranger Tremor comes with robust plastic floor mats, instead of conventional carpeting. These deep-channeled mats catch mud, sand and water. We put the Tremor through its paces this December with beach visits, hikes, picnics, you name it. And the practical floor mat design with raised edges was especially good at containing sand and mud. Better still, the textured surface provides good foot grip even when dirty. Their durability stands up to constant use, too, and they’re easy to sweep/wipe clean.

3. LOAD-BAY VERSATILITY

The Ford Ranger Tremor’s factory-fitted load-bay liner features multiple tie-down points strategically placed around the cargo area. The sturdy-yet-grippy liner itself protects against scratches, scrapes and dents while transporting cargo in the load bay. Mostly tasked with carrying longboards around the Cape Peninsula, the multiple tie-down points with metal loops came in handy day after day.

4. METAL SIDE STEPS

Not only aesthetically pleasing, the Tremor’s metal side steps serve multiple every-day purposes. Of course, their primary function is to gain easier access to the cabin. The Tremor is 24-mm higher than a standard Ranger and you really feel that when climbing up into the cabin. However, the side steps protect the vehicle’s sides from rock damage during off-road excursions, acting as very effective rock sliders. They also provide a stable platform for reaching roof-mounted accessories.

5. AUTO HEADLAMPS

Finally, the automatic headlamp system makes driving at night a synch. Priced at just R977 500, the XLT-based Tremor might be cost effective, but it’s still generously specified. The auto high-beam function responds exceedingly quickly to changing light conditions. It activates not just in darkness but also during sudden weather changes or when entering shaded areas and tunnels. Another practical feature is its delayed-off feature that provides temporary illumination after parking, useful when arriving home in the dark after a full day of adventuring.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THESE PRACTICAL FEATURES?

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