The “Face lifted” Ford Rangers will hit the dealerships November this year, but Ford has decided to launch the Ranger to the media this week already.
Ford is not disclosing the pricing as yet, but for interest sake the current Ranger sells for between R203,900 and R558,900.
Its biggest rival is the All New Toyota Hilux which will however only be available early next year.

The Ranger has been given a rather significant facelift, it looks a bit more aggressive and there are upgraded engines as well as whole suite of new convenience and safety technologies in the “Top of the range” models.

Improvements on the engine and suspension:
The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel has now been fitted with a new exhaust gas recirculation system which reduces fuel consumption with 18% as claimed by Ford (The performance figures remains unchanged)

The 2.2-litre TDCi turbo-diesel preforms better now, power has been increased to 118kW & 385Nm. The base 2.2 TDCi continues to produce 88kW and 285Nm and the 2.5 petrol is also left unchanged, offering 122kW and 226Nm

The latter two engines are mated to a five-speed manual model while the high-output 2.2 and 3.2 come with six-speed manual gearboxes, with the 3.2 offering a six-speed auto option in certain models.

The 4×4 models still offers low-range and a locking rear diff and ground-clearance basically remain unchanged.

Extra sound insulation has been used to make the cabin quieter and there have also been a few suspension tweaks that improves handling and comfort.

Interior:
I like the new dashboard, on the XLT & Wildtrak models you now get a 20cm touch-screen which is linked to the Sync2 infotainment system.

Active Safety:
The Wildtrak active safety features include tech such as Lane Keeping Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, Driver Impairment Monitor and Park Assist (front and rear).

The model range:
There are a total of 33 different derivatives on offer and numerous specification grades.
The Super Cab range has been expanded from five to six models, while two new variants join the Double Cab line-up, including a 2.2 XL 4×4 and a 2.2 XLT.

Wildtrak Models:
In addition to the stand-out styling features, including titanium grille and bumper insert and 18-inch alloys, this range-topper gains a unique cargo management system and an extra 12v power point.

Cabin features include an eight-way power adjustable driver seat, ambient lighting, a 230v power inverter and the aforementioned electronic driving aids.

Full model line-up:

Single Cab
2.5 Base Chassis Cab 4×2 5MT Low Rider 4×2 (122kW)
2.5 Base 4×2 5MT Low Rider 4×2(122kW)
2.2 TDCi Base Chassis Cab 4×2 5MT (88kW)
2.2 TDCi Base 4×2 5MT (88kW)
2.2 TDCi XL 4×2 6MT (118kW)
2.2 TDCi XL 4×4 6MT (118kW)
2.2 TDCi XLS 4×2 6MT (118kW)
2.2 TDCi XL-Plus Chassis Cab 4×4 6MT (118kW)
2.2 TDCi XL-Plus 4×4 6MT (118kW)
3.2 TDCi XLS 4×2 6MT (147kW)
2.2 TDCi XLS 4×4 6MT (118kW)
3.2 TDCi XLS 4×4 6MT(147kW)

Super Cab
2.2 TDCi XL 4×2 6MT (118kW)
2.2 TDCi XL 4×4 6MT (118kW)
3.2 TDCi XLS 4×2 6MT(147kW)
3.2 TDCi XLT 4×4 6AT (147kW)

Double Cab
2.2 TDCi XLT 4×2 6MT (118kW)
3.2 TDCi XLT 4×2 6MT(147kW)
3.2 TDCi XLT 4×2 6AT (147kW)
3.2 TDCi XLT 4×4 6MT (147kW)
3.2 TDCi Wildtrak 4×2 6MT (147kW)
3.2 TDCi Wildtrak 4×2 6AT (147kW)
3.2 TDCi Wildtrak 4×4 6AT (147kW)

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