Does the 2021 Ford F-150 Tremor Achieve Raptor-Esque Abilities?

A new Rock Crawl mode, a long list of off-road upgrades, and more aggressive styling separates the Tremor upgrade from the pack.

As excellent as the beastly F-150 Raptor is (specifically, the new V8-powered Raptor R), the truth is, it’s too much truck for most people — that’s where the new 2021 F-150 Tremor comes in. It offers all the off-road capabilities with the latest technology, coupled with some sweet Raptor features, including a front bash plate, torque-on-demand transfer, and off-road fixed running boards, but without the grandiose (and price tag) that is Raptor

Silver 2021 Ford F-150 Tremor front view parked on rocks with dust in the back
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford

The F-150 is completely redesigned for 2021, and the Tremor package is the first for the popular full-size pickup, arriving in the summer of 2021. Available in three versions, the new F-150 Tremor finds a distinct hood and grille with Active Orange highlights, off-road running boards, and other trim and tech packages with enhanced Trail Control, Trail One-Pedal Drive, and Trail Turn Assist. 

Tremor Upgrade is for F-150 FX4 Owners Seeking More Capabilities

2021 Ford F-150 Tremor
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford

Key specs:

  • SuperCrew configuration with a 5.5-foot box
  • 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine with 10-speed transmission
  • 4WD standard
  • 10,900 pounds maximum towing capacity
  • Maximum payload rating of 1,885 pounds 

According to Ford, The Tremor package results from F-150 FX4 owners seeking more off-road abilities from their full-size pickup, which evaluated how their customers utilized the FX4 package. The Tremor package was previously available on the Super Duty and mid-size Ranger, but seeing as the F-150 is the company’s best-seller — and best-selling truck for nearly half a century — this new trim was only a matter of time. 

Tremor Off-Road Package Specs:
  • Ford Trail Toolbox (set of off-road assist features) upgrade available, including Trail One-Pedal Drive for easier rock crawling duties
  • Rock Crawl Mode: added to the suite of drive modes (Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery and Deep Snow/Sand, and Mud/Rut)
  • Upgraded and lifted suspension with retuned springs (front and back)
  • Revised front hub knuckles and upper control arms 
  • Softer damping at low speeds courtesy of tuned monotube shocks at the front and twin tube shocks at rear
  • 18-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch General Grabber all-terrain tires (gains 1-inch wider stance)
  • Front bash plate from the F-150 Raptor
  • Approach angle of 27.6 degrees, breakover angle of 21.2 degrees and departure angle of 24.3
  • 1-inch total travel up front; 1.5-inch in the rear
  • Locking rear differential is standard
  • Torsen limited-slip upgrade available (late availability)
  • From Raptor, a torque-on-demand transfer 
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor towing an off road camper trailer
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford

As Ford puts it, “Like Super Duty Tremor and Ranger Tremor, introducing the all-new F-150 Tremor is a direct response to seeing how customers use our trucks to enable their outdoor lifestyles…F-150 Tremor provides the additional off-road capability they’re looking for with our latest off-road technologies.” 

F-150 Tremor Styling Adds Aggressive Looks

2021 Ford F-150 Tremor rear view of bed door
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford
Styling Specs:
  • More aggressive front end and hood
  • Blacked-out Ford logo on grille
  • Active Orange: signature Tremor colour
  • Two front and rear recovery hooks 
  • Off-road fixed running boards from Raptor
  • Cutout rear bumper with a high-flow dual exhaust 

The 2021 Ford F-150 Tremor commands attention with its more assertive front end and hood design and a striking blacked-out Ford logo on the grille. Distinguished by the signature Tremor colour, Active Orange, this off-road powerhouse exudes a vibrant and adventurous personality. Functionality meets style with two front and rear recovery hooks, enhancing its capability for challenging terrains. The off-road fixed running boards, borrowed from the Raptor, contribute to accessibility, while the cutout rear bumper houses a high-flow dual exhaust, delivering a potent and distinctive performance on and off the beaten path.

The Interior Gets a Significant Upgrade

2021 Ford F-150 Tremor interior seats back and front
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford
Interior Specs:
  • Active Orange accents throughout
  • Distinct seat trim with special stitching 
  • Different materials and finished throughout
  • Instrument panel, centre console and doors get unique feel
  • Six-position auxiliary power switch pack mounted in the overhead console 
  • 360-degree camera package optional

Inside the 2021 Ford F-150 Tremor, the Active Orange accents add a more vibrant feel to the seat trim, adorned with unique stitching, and add an extra layer of sophistication to the cabin. Varied materials and finishes are thoughtfully incorporated throughout; the instrument panel, centre console, and doors boast a unique feel. Adding practicality to the mix, a six-position auxiliary power switch pack is mounted in the overhead console, offering versatility for various accessories. For enhanced visibility and maneuvering, an optional 360-degree camera package is available, providing a comprehensive view of the surroundings.

2021 Ford F-150 Tremor logo on floor mat
2021 Ford F-150 Tremor. Photo: Ford

Overall, the F-150 Tremor package is just one more worthy upgrade to an already capable pickup entering its next generation for 2021. Is it a Raptor fighter? Well, not quite. But Tremor adds the off-road goods the F-150 FX4-equipped trucks don’t have. And the blacked-out styling with orange Tremor badging alone adds a sharp look.

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