Bigger but more mannered: new Ford Ranger

Ford’s current Ranger rules with great preponderance in Europe. Almost 40% of the pickup market is owned by the American brand.

The new version has big shoes to fill, a task not taken lightly by Ford who interviewed 5,000 owners prior to development.    

A majority of those customers wished for more engine torque, so a V6 turbodiesel engine is returning to the portfolio, topping two versions of the four-cylinder diesel. Though not officially confirmed, sources say a hybrid-electric option will join the line-up later. CO2 figures have yet to be homologated.

Patience is required

Despite its utilitarian roots the cabin is almost car-like (which also applies for the ride and handling according to Ford) with a large portrait screen for the infotainment and a big digital display in front of the driver. Smart connectivity like FordPass enhances the customer experience with vehicle status, (un)locking by mobile phone and so on.

The wider load bay can now accommodate a full-size pallet and there’s a bed organiser and a side step for an easier climb.

With the order books (for Europe only) to open in late 2022, and deliveries scheduled for early 2023, patience is required.    

Since Ford has an industrial agreement with VW, concerning multiple joint projects including EVs, the Ranger will in a later stadium be launched as a German make-over under the badge Amarok.

Article authored by Bart van Holderbeke.

Images courtesy of Ford.