Look, there are a bunch of Rangers in Ford’s lineup – single cabs, super cabs, entry level double cabs, but we’re here to sample the new 2.0l bi-turbo diesel with 157kW and 500Nm and that means quality time in it. Saying that, I’m even curious about the single turbo XLT model with 132kW and 420Nm at its disposal.
But first I should mention that there are in fact an array of new updates on this now incredibly familiar shape. Such as a new front grille and bumper, and HID headlamps and LED fog lights plus daytime running lights.
The cabin gets a darker interior, with the Wildtrak getting black leather for added premiumness. Those new powertrains are blessed with markedly improved fuel consumption (10% better) and of course, marginally better acceleration times. They come mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and this makes for better power management and helps with that improved fuel economy. The suspension has seen some tweaks as well, such as relocating the front stabilizer bar for better steering and ride quality.
Security on the Ranger XL and up is now rated at Level 1 to combat theft, while that aforementioned powertrain power boost translates into improved towing capacity - from 2.5 tons to 3.5 thanks in part to a new final drive ratio. Also on board the Wildtrak, an improved SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You now also get a Smart Key and keyless entry with a push to start ignition.
In terms of refinement the new Ranger enjoys reduced 5% NVH levels with active noise control. Also new, an easy-lift tailgate with a 70% reduction in lift force thanks to a torsion rod that helps you lift and lower it. There’s also a smart autonomous emergency braking system for vehicles and pedestrians plus Active Park Assist for parallel parking, Lane Keep Assist, parking sensors and roll-over mitigation and roll stability control - part of Ford’s ESP system.
The XLS derivatives at the lower end now get chrome packs as standard with 17-inch wheels (also standard) 6-speed manual/automatic transmissions and SYNC 1, plus a rear-view camera. The base model still has a 2.2-litre engine with 88kW mated to a 5-speed manual but now comes with Bluetooth connectivity, so again, there’s much to love in the Ranger range.
There are nine colours including two new ones – Diffuse Silver and Blue Lightning. That Sabre orange however is exclusive to the Wildtrak. Personally, I’d have the XLT at R570k. It comes with the single turbo 2.0-litre mill and in 4x4 can roll over the Outeniqua Mountains with no fuss. I know this because I did just so.
New Ford Ranger Pricing:
Ranger Single Cab
|
|
2.2L TDCi Base 5MT 4x2 LR
| R287,100.00 |
2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x2
| R359,800.00 |
2.2L TDCi XL 6AT 4x2
| R372,300.00 |
2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x4
| R411,400.00 |
2.2L TDCi XLS 6MT 4x2
| R390,900.00 |
2.2L TDCi XLS 6AT 4x4
| R449,200.00 |
3.2L TDCI XLS 6MT 4x2
| R401,800.00 |
3.2L TDCI XLS 6AT 4x4
| R460,100.00 |
| Ranger Super Cab |
|
2.2L TDCi Base 5MT 4x2
| R336,500.00 |
| 2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x2 | R381,400.00
|
| 2.2L TDCi XL 6AT 4x2 | R393,800.00
|
| 2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x4 | R429,300.00 |
| 2.2L TDCi XLS 6AT 4x2 | R426,400.00
|
| 2.2L TDCi XLS 6AT 4x4 | R472,400.00
|
| 3.2L TDCi XLS 6MT 4x2 | R424,900.00
|
| 3.2L TDCi XLS 6MT 4x4 | R480,900.00
|
3.2L TDCi XLT 6AT 4x4
| R568,600.00
|
Ranger Double Cab
|
|
2.2L TDCi Base 5MT 4x2
| R350,000.00
|
2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x2
| R409,400.00
|
2.2L TDCi XL 6MT 4x4
| R455,300.00
|
2.2L TDCi XL 6AT 4x2
| R428,800.00
|
2.2L TDCi XL 6AT 4x4
| R474,700.00
|
2.2L TDCi XLS 6MT 4x2
| R455,100.00
|
2.2L TDCi XLS 6AT 4x4
| R508,400.00
|
2.0L Turbo XLT 10AT 4x2
| R514,300.00
|
2.0L Turbo XLT 10AT 4x4
| R570,200.00
|
3.2L TDCi XLT 6MT 4x2
| R542,600.00
|
3.2L TDCi XLT 6AT 4x2
| R571,400.00
|
3.2L TDCi XLT 6MT 4x4
| R604,800.00
|
3.2L TDCi XLT 6AT 4x4
| R617,300.00
|
3.2L TDCi 3,2 Wildtrak 6AT 4x2
| R609,800.00
|
2.0L BiT Wildtrak 10AT 4x2
| R632,300.00
|
2.0L BiT Wildtrak 10AT 4x4
| R678,200.00
|
