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Ford continues to tweak its Ranger compact pickup with various looks, equipment packages and features to make it attractive to a wide spectrum of buyers.

The two-wheel-drive Tremor SuperCab package is aimed squarely at young buyers who will be attracted to its 485-watt Pioneer stereo system like bees to honey. Although the test vehicle was a 2002 model, the same package will be available in 2003.

The aptly named Tremor contains a factory version of the kind of audio system Gen Xers might install on their own. A 10-inch subwoofer resides in a custom enclosure on the floor of the rear-seat area, and when cranked to max volume it feels like it could move the vehicle with sound waves alone. Four 6- by 8-inch speakers distribute clear, crisp sound throughout the vehicle, and the subwoofer makes the hair on your neck stand up. The downside to the subwoofer is that it takes up space behind the seats and that limits what can be hauled back there.

The in-dash unit has a single CD player and slot for cassettes, along with an AM/FM radio. It glows bright blue at night. My only complaint with this unit is one that applies to almost all after-market stereos: Glitz and dazzle have replaced simple controls for operation. My Luddite leanings must be showing because I favor audio systems with simple, traditional knobs for tuning stations and adjusting tone.

The Ranger’s cabin incorporates a number of changes to reduce noise, vibration and harshness, including thicker glass, new door and B-pillar seals and a new drive shaft tunnel insulator shield. The Tremor has cloth upholstery on the 60/40 split front seat and white-faced gauges in the instrument panel. The bench seat enables three-across seating, although the middle section is not adequate for more than occasional use.

Aside from the earth-thumping stereo, a key to the Tremor is its four-by-four look, even though it is a two-wheel-drive vehicle. The taller stance, 16-inch polished alloy wheels and monochromatic yellow, black or blue paint schemes make the Tremor look rugged and tough, factors sure to appeal to young buyers who want the look, but can’t afford the price, of a four-wheel-drive truck. The 2002 four-door SuperCab Tremor driven for this review started at $21,130. Available options include a bed extender, flareside bed, step bars, limited-slip rear axle, trailer tow package, bedliner, sliding glass rear window and tilt steering wheel. The Tremor’s powerplant is Ford’s 3.0-liter V-6 that cranks out a modest 154 horsepower but 180 foot-pounds of torque. Ford improved the torque in 2002 to make the throttle a bit more responsive. A five-speed automatic transmission is used. A heavy-duty five-speed manual is also offered.

Four-wheel-drive Rangers are equipped with the 4.0-liter, 207-horsepower V-6.

Ford revised the Ranger’s suspension in 2002 with new springs, different front geometry, stronger stabilizer bars and retuned shock absorbers. The ride is firm and solid wi thout being as choppy as a real four-wheel-drive truck.

For 2003, Ford will offer the Ranger with other special packages, including the FX4/Off-Road SuperCab model and a FX4/Level II package for the true off-road enthusiast. The FX4/Level II is fitted with Bilstein shocks for improved control and BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires on Alcoa forged aluminum wheels.

Later in 2003 a Wheels and Tunes model will be available with alloy wheels and an MP3 player.

Ford continues to add models to keep its best-selling compact pickup viable, and there should be something for nearly everyone in its lineup.

Price: The base price of the test vehicle was $21,130. Options included a 4.10 axle ratio, step bar, bed extender and power windows, mirrors and keyless entry.

The sticker price was $22,930.

Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles.

Point: The Ranger Tremor offers a high-quality, after-market-type stereo as standard equipment. The excellen sound should appeal to young buyers who won’t have to customize their truck to get ear-popping sound.

Counterpoint: The V-6 engine could use a bit more power, and the audio system’s controls are not as simple and intuitive as they could be. The subwoofer takes up cargo space behind the front seat.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine: 3.0-liter, 154-hp V-6
Transmission: automatic Rear-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 126 inches
Curb weight: 3,203 lbs.
Base price: $22,130
As driven: $22,930
Mpg rating: 17 city, 21 hwy.
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