After a rather lengthy teaser campaign, the all-new Ford Ranger has been officially unveiled with a heavily revised platform, new set of technical features and a new set of engine options. Ford says that development for this generation of the Ranger relied heavily on customer feedback.
Although power outputs are yet to be confirmed, the new Ford Ranger will be available with a the Powerstroke twin-turbodiesel 3,0-litre V6 and turbopetrol 2,3-litre four-cylinder engine as found in the Ford Focus RS. The single- and twin-turbodiesel 2,0-litre four-cylinder option will also remain as an option in the new model. New transmission choices include an updated 10-speed auto or six-speed manual, complementing the current six-speed automatic.
Riding on the third generation of the current platform, the new Ford Ranger retains its leaf-spring setup but for a better approach angle and outboard for better off-road articulation, the front wheels have been moved forward by 50 mm. The rear suspension dampers have also been shifted outboard of the frame rails to give drivers and passengers a better ride both on- and off-road.
A large amount of attention has been placed on the interior where a 10,1-inch or optional 12-inch portrait touchscreen has been applied to the centre of the dash. This system is linked to a 360 degree camera as well as the FordPass app that allows owners to manage the exterior zone lighting system of the new Ford Ranger via their smartphones.
The design team of the new Ford Ranger also created clever storage and useful features for owners. There are not only places to store your phone or charge it wirelessly, where compatible, but there’s a large center console bin to stash things. In addition, the door pockets are designed to carry more, the wide dash conceals an upper glovebox and there are storage bins under and behind the rear seats.
The new Ford ranger will be available in XLT, Sport and Wildtrak trims. Official information regarding the upcoming Raptor is being kept under a lock and key for the time-being. Ford South Africa is yet to confirm what engines and grades local consumers will have access to but we can expect a market launch within 2022.
