The Ford Ranger has won the International Pick-up Award 2020, beating Mitsubishi’s Triton (also known as the L200 in some markets) into second place.
The Blue Oval brand’s bakkie – which is, of course, built right here in South Africa – won the biennial title, with the Triton grabbing a close second place and the Toyota Hilux coming in third.
A group of 18 jurors said the Ranger was triumphant thanks to its “new cleaner and greener drivetrain” as well as “a number of technical and safety advancements”.
Jarlath Sweeney, chairperson for the International Van of the Year jury, revealed that just six points separated the top two contenders.
“The Ford Ranger scored 78 points to the 72 gained by the Mitsubishi L200 [Triton], with the Toyota Hilux coming in third,” Sweeney said.
“Jury members adjudged the Ranger to be the best all-rounder and noted that it’s a best seller too, as the previous version together with this revised model dominate the European marketplace with almost 30 percent share of the one-tonne segment. So the public recognises its merits also.
“Marks were allocated on each vehicle based on powertrain efficiencies, load volume and capability, driver and passenger comfort and safety aspects, as well as low total cost of operation from a business point of view,” Jarlath said.
The Volkswagen Amarok won the title in 2018, with Nissan’s Navara winning in 2016.
