Earlier in July 2020, CARmag.co.za was the first to confirm the new Ford Ranger Thunder would be offered in South Africa. And now we have unearthed local pricing for the Wildtrak-based double-cab bakkie.
From what we understand, the Thunder package will be offered on locally built Wildtrak models powered by the Blue Oval brand’s 157 kW/500 N.m twin-turbodiesel 2,0-litre, four-cylinder engine.
Our information suggests the Thunder will be available in both 4×2 and 4×4 guise (both with 10-speed automatic transmissions) here in South Africa, likely from early August. There’s also a chance the kit will be offered on the 3,2-litre, five-cylinder TDCi version of the Wildtrak, although this is unconfirmed for now.
So, what sort of money are you looking at here? Well, our information says the Thunder package will cost you some R36 000. A spot of maths suggests the Ranger Thunder 2,0 BiT 4×2 variant will thus be priced at around R738 600, while the 2,0 BiT 4×4 derivative will come in at about R789 600. If the 3,2 TDCi makes the cut, expect a price of around R714 200.
What do you score for the extra cash? The fresh-faced Thunder-badged model comes finished in Sea Grey exterior paint with red highlights on the grille and sports bar. You’ll also notice the chunky “Thunder” badging on the front doors and tailgate.
Other updates include the adoption of black 18-inch alloy wheels, with the grille, rear bumper, skid plates, foglamp surrounds and exterior door handles also finished in black.
LED headlamps featuring darkened bezels furthermore ship standard, while the bakkie’s taillmaps have been darkened, too. From what we understand, the Ranger Thunder will also boast a black powder-coated roller shutter complete with a load-bay divider.
Inside, there’s plenty of leather along with “Thunder” badges embroidered in red, a colour extended to stitching on the steering wheel, seats and instrument panel. The sill plates, meanwhile, feature red illumination.
