Ford Off-Road Trims Explained
Ford offers a wide range of off-road trims to suit different driving needs. From entry-level packages to high-performance models, Ford's lineup has something for everyone. In this article, our team at Chalmers Ford explores the off-road models to help you find the ideal model for your outdoor adventures.
Understanding Ford's Off-Road Legacy
Ford has established itself as an industry leader in off-road technology and performance. This heritage has directly shaped the current off-road trims, resulting in trucks that combine exceptional durability and innovative technology. Ford continues to redefine off-road capability by consistently introducing new features such as enhanced four-wheel-drive systems and terrain management technology.
Exploring Ford's Off-Road Trim Levels
Ford offers several off-road trim levels across its truck lineup to ensure that you'll find one that's perfect for your lifestyle. The main options include the FX4 Package, Tremor, and Raptor. The FX4 Package is a starter off-road option you can get on several Ford trucks. It gives you basic off-road upgrades without changing the truck's daily handling. The Tremor offers a midlevel package with enhanced capability and practicality. The high-performance Raptor is designed for extreme off-road terrain and fast desert runs.
Ford F-150 Trims With Off-Road Capabilities
The Ford F-150 is available in several off-road-ready trims.
F-150 Tremor
The F-150 Tremor features an upgraded suspension and a one-inch lift, giving you more clearance for rough trails. The truck features all-terrain tires with unique wheels to enhance grip in various off-road conditions. A standout Tremor feature is its standard locking rear differential, as well as an optional front Torsen limited-slip differential for extra traction. You also get specialized drive modes for different terrains, along with available Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist. These features make off-road driving easier and more fun regardless of your skill level.
F-150 Raptor
The top-of-the-range F-150 Raptor can tackle the toughest terrains at high speeds and has a high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine that produces 450 horsepower. This engine provides the power necessary for everything from rock crawling to desert racing. The suspension system features advanced FOX Racing Shox with Live Valve technology that adapts instantly to changing terrain. The Raptor also has a wider body with more ground clearance than regular F-150s, as well as optional 37-inch tires for incredible off-road ability.
Ford Ranger Trims for Off-Roading
The Ford Ranger offers various models ready for your off-road adventures.
Ranger FX4
The Ranger FX4 package offers an entry-level off-road option for Ford's midsize truck. This package adds features that boost the Ranger's off-road capability without compromising everyday practicality. This option offers an off-road tuned suspension, skid plates for underbody protection, and all-terrain tires for better grip on loose surfaces.
The FX4 package also adds an electronic locking rear differential, dramatically improving traction in tough conditions. Ford's Terrain Management System and Trail Control are included, giving you better control on challenging surfaces, while a 360-degree camera system enhances off-road safety and convenience.
Ranger Raptor
The Ranger Raptor is the high-performance off-road version of the midsize Ranger. It has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine that generates 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger Raptor accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, providing a thrilling experience both on and off the road.
The Ranger Raptor's suspension with advanced FOX shocks provides exceptional control during off-road adventures. This model has a wider track and more ground clearance than the standard Ranger, allowing it to easily navigate tougher terrain. Specialized off-road drive modes make the truck even more capable, letting you adjust settings for different conditions.
Special Off-Road Packages and Features
Ford offers several off-road packages that allow you to customize your truck.
FX4 Package
The FX4 package can be added to many Ford truck models, offering features that improve off-road handling. Key parts include off-road tuned shock absorbers for better control and comfort on rough terrain. You also get skid plates to protect important underbody parts from rocks and obstacles. An electronic locking rear differential significantly improves traction on challenging surfaces. The package also includes hill-descent control, which automatically controls your brakes to keep a steady speed when going down steep hills. All-terrain tires come standard, enhancing traction on loose surfaces, while a 360-degree camera system helps with navigating tight trails.
Tremor Package
The Tremor package significantly improves the suspension, which includes a one-inch lift on the F-150 Tremor. This taller ride height, as well as larger, more aggressive all-terrain tires, gives you better ground clearance and improved approach, departure, and breakover angles.
Also included in this package is an advanced four-wheel-drive system with a locking rear differential, providing excellent traction in tough off-road situations. Unique interior and exterior styling elements enhance the Tremor's appearance, while specialized off-road drive modes boost its performance on various terrains. The 2024 Ford Super Duty Tremor showcases the benefits of this package, with 10.8 inches of ground clearance and a water fording ability of 33 inches.
Adaptive Drive Modes and Their Importance
Adaptive drive modes optimize the performance of Ford's off-road vehicles in different conditions. These modes typically include options such as Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery, Deep Snow/Sand, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, and Baja. Each mode adjusts various vehicle components, including the throttle response, transmission shift points, traction control, and four-wheel-drive system, to deliver the best performance for specific driving situations.
These systems use advanced technology and multiple inputs such as the throttle position, vehicle speed, and steering angle to adjust the car's behavior in real time. The system can shift torque from front to rear and side to side in less than a second, responding instantly to changing terrain.
Selecting the Right Off-Road Trim for Your Needs
Selecting the right Ford off-road trim depends on several factors such as your intended use, your budget, and the level of off-road capability and comfort you require. If you mostly drive on paved roads and occasionally on trails, the FX4 package may be enough. If you regularly tackle tougher terrain, the Tremor package makes more sense, providing greater ground clearance and more advanced off-road features.
Although the FX4 package is affordable, the Tremor and Raptor trims cost quite a bit more but provide greater capability and better features. Your choice will depend on your budget and preferences.
Discover Your Perfect Ford Off-Road Model Today
Ford's wide range of off-road trims and packages has something for everyone. From the versatile FX4 package to the extreme capability of the Raptor, there's a Ford off-road vehicle for your needs and preferences. If you're in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, we invite you to visit Chalmers Ford to experience our extensive inventory firsthand. Our team will help you explore your financing options and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a test drive to help you decide which model is right for you.
