There are few surprises in the media anymore, but the new Ford Tremor full-size left our offices genuinely in awe. We have grown so accustomed to only seeing the best overland options from Toyota and Chrysler that we (and I suspect they) never saw this full-size Tremor coming. The Power Wagon has maintained the capability championship for well over a decade, unchallenged, but this new 2020 Tremor will go head-to-head on a spec sheet, and has a few options that even RAM does not make available.
For the Overlander:
Overland travel requires a few important considerations, particularly with a full-size. Once a buyer decides to invest in a vehicle that big, it is typically because they intend to install a camper or tow a larger trailer. For other capable full-size vehicles like the Raptor or Power Wagon, that has always resulted in a lower payload capacity then other models, and the notable lack of a diesel powertrain. Todd Eckert, Ford’s marketing manager shared that “A growing number of Super Duty customers use their trucks for more than work. They’re fishing, camping and towing boats on weekends and they go off-road, so we designed this truck specifically for them – more ground clearance, bigger shocks, bigger tires and more off-road capability,” and “…Tremor balances what customers demand in terms of work with what they need in the great outdoors.” According to the specifications, the Tremor will be close to the same capacities as the other 2020 models.
For capability, the list is impressive, including class-leading 35-inch Duratrac tires, a 31.6 degree approach angle, 10.8-inches of ground clearance, a 33-inch fording depth (best in class), and a 53:1 crawl ratio (gas engine). For the differentials, there is a locking rear and a Dana limited-slip front. The front LSD will work excellent when combined with traction control, and work as well as a full locker in nearly all scenarios. I suspect a front locker was omitted due to the torque of the diesel and the general lack of experience most consumers have with driver-selectable lockers. The suspension receives attention too, with 1.7-inch twin-tube shocks, and improved articulation with a lower spring rate for the rear swaybar. The Tremor does lack the locking front differential, sway-bar disconnect, and standard winch from the Power Wagon, but it does offer the significant advantage of proper payload and the legendary Powerstroke.
The drivetrain options include the new 7.3-liter gas V8 or the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel, paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Capacity levels are also options, including both 250 and 350 ratings. We are arguably in the golden age of 4WD vehicles, something few would ever have predicted. There are more vehicles with factory-available locking differentials than in any time in history. Vehicles like the Tremor just add to this excitement and consumer interest, and now the Power Wagon has a competitor that just might leave it quaking in its 33-inch tires… ford.com
