Understanding Ford Off-Road Specs and Features | Thornhill Ford in Chapmanville, WV

When the pavement ends, Ford keeps going. From the backroads of southern West Virginia to mountain trails and muddy work sites, Ford trucks and SUVs are made to perform where others tap out. At Thornhill Ford in Chapmanville, we help you understand the features and numbers that matter when off-road performance is your priority.

Ground Clearance: Stay High and Dry

Ground clearance is how high your vehicle sits off the ground – a must-know when navigating rocky paths, deep ruts, or uneven terrain. The Ford Bronco offers up to 11.6 inches of ground clearance in select trims, while the F-150 Raptor comes in close with up to 13.1 inches. Higher clearance helps protect the underbody and allows your truck or SUV to roll confidently over obstacles instead of scraping or getting stuck.

4x4 Systems: Keep Traction Where You Need It

Not all four-wheel drive systems are built the same. Ford’s intelligent 4WD and advanced off-road packages are tuned for serious terrain. Vehicles like the Bronco Sport offer G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), which automatically adjust throttle response, traction control, and shifting patterns based on terrain mode selection: sand, snow, mud, or rock.

Ford trucks like the F-150 Tremor or Ranger FX4 come with electronic-locking rear differentials, ensuring both rear wheels spin together for maximum traction on uneven ground.

Approach, Breakover, and Departure Angles: The Geometry of Adventure

These angles determine your vehicle’s ability to climb over and descend from obstacles without scraping the bumpers or getting high-centered:

• Approach Angle: The steepest incline your vehicle can approach without hitting the front bumper.
• Breakover Angle: The angle between the tires and the middle of the vehicle (important when cresting a hill).
• Departure Angle: The steepest slope your vehicle can descend without scraping the rear bumper.

For example, the 2024 Bronco Raptor boasts an approach angle of 47.2°, a breakover angle of 30.8°, and a departure angle of 40.5°. Those numbers are serious business for serious off-roaders.

Skid Plates and Suspension: Built to Take a Beating

Skid plates are steel or aluminum shields mounted underneath to protect the oil pan, transfer case, fuel tank, and other critical components. The FX4 Off-Road Package and Tremor Package add skid plates to popular models like the F-150, Ranger, and Expedition.

Off-road-tuned suspension systems – including FOX® shocks found on the F-150 Raptor and Bronco Raptor – help absorb harsh landings, smooth out rock crawling, and improve high-speed trail performance.

Tire Options: Grip You Can Count On

Off-road tires are key to conquering tough terrain. Most Ford off-road trims come with all-terrain or mud-terrain tires designed to grip loose surfaces, deflect debris, and handle uneven ground.

Look for options like:

• 33" or 35" tires on Bronco Sasquatch Package models
• LT tires (Light Truck-rated) for trucks like the F-250 Tremor
• Beadlock-capable wheels on select Bronco and Raptor trims for serious rock crawling

Crawl Control & Trail Tech

Ford integrates smart tech to make off-roading easier and more confident:

• Trail Control™: A low-speed cruise control for off-road driving. You set the speed; the vehicle manages throttle and braking.
• Trail Turn Assist: Tightens your turning radius by braking the inside rear wheel – perfect for navigating tight switchbacks or narrow forest paths.
• Front 180° Camera: Helps you see rocks and ruts directly ahead so you can steer clear of trouble.

Build Your Off-Road Ford at Thornhill

If you're ready to upgrade your outdoor adventures, Thornhill Ford has you covered. From the Bronco to the F-Series Tremor lineup, we offer vehicles built for West Virginia's wildest trails. We'll help you understand what all the specs mean and how to outfit your Ford with everything you need for life off the beaten path.

Stop by our Chapmanville showroom or check out our inventory online to see your next off-road-ready ride.