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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Author:
Amee Reehal
Amee Reehalhttps://www.ameereehal.com/
Shooting cars and bikes professionally since film was a thing, for over 20 years, Amee has collaborated with the major automakers and agencies, and his work has been published in various global outlets including MotorTrend, GlobeDrive, SuperStreet, Chicago Tribune, PerformanceBMW, and others. He’s an automotive writer and founder/managing editor of TractionLife.com, focusing on digital marketing & SEO for the past ten years (backed by a marketing degree, go figure). Find him travelling, spending time with his kids and family. Or golfing, poorly.