• Ford has released its new model line-up and pricing for its popular Ranger bakkie.
• The 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Ranger diesel engine is no longer available locally.
• While the Silverton Plant in Pretoria is the only one in the world to build the Ranger plug-in hybrid vehicle, it is still unavailable for the SA market.

Ford South Africa has released the full line-up and pricing for the updated Ranger, which is now available at dealerships nationwide. The revised line-up will comprise 23 derivatives across Single-Cab, Super-Cab, and Double-Cab body styles.

Petrol, diesel, but no hybrid

With current petrol price hikes less severe than diesel’s, the arrival of a small petrol engine feels like fortunate timing.

The 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine is one Ford has had in its inventory for years – locally, it appeared in the Mustang and the Focus RS. It’s now been tuned specifically for the Ranger (and the Amarok) with 222kW and 452 Nm of torque. The only caveat is that it’s only available in 4x2 derivatives.

Another change that won’t go unnoticed is the discontinuation of the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel, which previously featured in models like the XLT, Wildtrak X, and Tremor. However, by expanding the (184kW / 600Nm) 3.0-litre turbo diesel across models like the Tremor and by boosting the durability of the 2.0 Single turbo diesel with a new timing chain, there’s no shortage of choice.

The 6-speed automatic has been replaced by Ford’s 10-speed automatic – ostensibly offering better fuel economy, smoother shifts and optimised torque delivery. Only two models – the XL Single-Cab 4x4 and XL Double-Cab 4x4 can be ordered with a 6-speed manual transmission.

A sporty choice

This also marks the first time that Ranger will wear the Sport moniker. This new derivative fits in between the XLT and the Wildtrak models. The new Ranger Sport is cemented into the line-up with various body styles and drivetrains. It’s available as a Super-Cab and Double-Cab with either the 2.3-litre EcoBoost or the 3.0-litre V6.

The Wildtrak X has been downgraded, as it’s no longer a standalone model. Cleverly, Ford is allowing customers to be more selective and upgrade the off-road capability in a way that suits their lifestyle. This model is also paired with the 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel for the first time.

Both the flagship Ranger Platinum and Ranger Raptor continue unaffected by these new updates. These models continue to offer the highest level of technology, comfort and off-road performance in their respective packages.

“Ranger remains the benchmark for practicality, capability, and refinement. We are delivering more performance and better technology to more customers,” says Sunil Sewmohan, Director of Product Marketing, Ford South Africa.

 ALSO READ | Why Ford’s Ranger Raptor bakkie is so misunderstood in South Africa

“Whether it’s used as a workhorse, a family vehicle, for leisure activities or for tackling challenging off-road terrain, the Ranger is one of the most capable and versatile vehicles in its class. With these updates, we have focused on building on Ranger’s trusted reputation for exceptional performance, efficiency, technology and safety, while raising the bar further in key areas such as capability, choice and excitement.”

Pricing

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