View Photos of the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor

Configured with the Tremor package, the all-wheel-drive Maverick sees its ground clearance increase to 9.4 inches (from 8.6 inches). That's also just over a half-inch higher than its SUV counterpart, the Ford Bronco Sport Badlands

Unfortunately, the Tremor isn't compatible with the Maverick's optional 4000-pound towing package, meaning it's only rated to pull 2000 pounds. Its 1200-pound payload capacity is also 300 pounds less than all other models

Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the turbo 2.0-liter four-pot in the Maverick makes 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque

For those who want help tiptoeing off-road, the Tremor's Trail Control function can automatically maintain a set speed

Since every Maverick has a crew-cab body style and a 4.5-foot cargo bed, the Tremor enjoys the benefits of a bigger-than-expected back seat and a box that's super functional for its size

All Mavericks outfitted with the Tremor package roll on dark 17-inch wheels with a distinctive orange pocket, which are wrapped with 30-inch-tall Falken Wildpeak A/T AT3W all-terrain tires

Inside, the off-road-focused Maverick separates itself from other models with "Tremor" embroidered in orange on the seatbacks as well as orange contrast stitching on the seats.

We tested the least-expensive version. Our XLT Tremor's $32,990 as-tested price included only a few options such as a spray-in bedliner ($495) and the $650 Ford Co-Pilot360 package (blind-spot monitor and lane-keep assist).

We also spent time with a top-spec Lariat Tremor. It stickered for just over $39K, but that includes upgrades such as heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable driver's seat, push-button start with passive entry, a sliding rear window, and more.

The Tremor appearance package costs an extra $1495 and brings a gray-painted roof (plus gray door handles and mirrors on the Lariat) and some black graphics

Our testing revealed the Tremor-equipped Maverick is as quick as other all-wheel-drive Mavericks, as well as the mechanically similar Ford Bronco Sport Badlands. The Tremor's 6.0-second sprint to 60 mph was merely 0.1 second behind its siblings

Too bad the Tremor model has the worst fuel economy in the Maverick family. Its EPA-rated 21 mpg combined falls short of other all-wheel-drive versions that earn 24 mpg combined. While the Tremor's 26-mpg result in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test was 2 mpg better than its EPA rating, we saw 29 mpg with an AWD Maverick equipped with the FX4 off-road package

Our own Ezra Dyer had hoped the Maverick Tremor might double as a budget-minded rally car. However, his struggles with the tiny off-road truck's stubborn stability control system meant it didn't quite live up to that dream

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor

2023 Ford Maverick Tremor