The Ford Ranger T6 redefined the midsize pick-up section with a slew of first-in-class options when it was first launched in 2011. What was historically used as a software has now change into extra of a plaything, its arrival opening up the section to a broad new vary of viewers who’re extra… free spirited, let’s simply say.
Over the course of its life, the Ranger T6 obtained two midlife updates (one in 2015, after which 2018), one in all which noticed the platform get upgraded to a extra subtle single-piece ladder body construction, versus the extra rudimentary three-piece design of the unique. This platform additionally turned the bottom for the Everest, and later closely modified for the primary Ranger Raptor.
Having been on energetic responsibility since 2011, the Ranger T6 is admittedly a bit of lengthy within the tooth. Rivals just like the Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Navara and perennial adversary Toyota Hilux, had been all very just lately up to date (the D-Max an precise full mannequin change), so Ford has some work minimize out for itself.
Enter the next-generation Ranger. Its lineage – relationship as far again to 1983 – is usually a little complicated, as a result of formally, that is solely the second-generation mannequin to take a seat on the T6 platform (identified internally because the Ranger T6.2). The brand new pick-up has been in improvement for half a decade, and the T6 structure it sits on is totally new, with little carried over from earlier than.
This time, the Ranger can be a real world mannequin, one which can be offered – in numerous trims and configurations – in over 180 markets, together with the USA. The stakes are excessive, and everyone seems to be watching. Can the brand new Ranger as soon as once more be probably the most fascinating midsize pick-up truck? We flew to Thailand to search out out.
First, a pre-qualifier. We had been solely handed the keys to the Ranger Wildtrak 2.0 Bi-Turbo 4×4, which on the time was the only real engine choice for the variant within the Kingdom. Ford didn’t go overboard with the specs, so Thai clients don’t get the brand new 3.0 litre V6 turbodiesel, full-time four-wheel drive, the fancier e-shifter or 20-inch alloy wheels.
These are doubtless reserved for different markets comparable to Australia and the US. Moreover that, although, Ford didn’t actually whittle down the Wildtrak’s tools checklist, and it stays to be seen if Sime Darby Auto Connexion can be introducing the three.0 litre oil burner. In any case, there’s so much to sit up for, so we’ll kick issues off with design.
It’s muscular, eye-catching and has unbelievable presence
The Wildtrak in its signature Luxe Yellow paint is a sight to behold within the flesh. The golden yellow color is kind of just a few shades paler than the Saber of yore, however does a lot to distinction the Boulder Gray accents on the grille, bumper, facet mirrors, fender garnish and 18-inch darkish alloy wheels.
It’s extra masculine now due to the raised bonnet line and bulging fenders, plus the twin projector Matrix LED headlights with C clamp-shaped LED daytime working lights assist give it a extra distinctive edge. Sure, that’s proper – the Ranger now ships with Matrix LED expertise, which is a first-in-class. The squared fog lamps are additionally LED projector models.
Additional down. you’ll discover twin restoration tow hooks slightly below the “aluminium” skid plate, however curiously, there may be nonetheless none on the again. This sadly means off-road lovers will once more should resort to aftermarket options, however don’t fear, Ford says there can be over 600 factory-backed equipment which you can buy, together with specialised tools from ARB 4×4 Equipment. Would have been good if it was customary, although.
High quality-of-life updates
By way of utility, the brand new Ranger is a giant step up from its predecessor, and fairly a literal one at that. The built-in rear field step simply aft of the rear wheels is one in all our favorite exterior enhancements, which implies you now not must step on the tyres to load or unload objects. It’s structural and huge sufficient for an ogre’s toes, even when carrying chunky security footwear.
Talking of loading objects, the cargo field is now 50 mm wider, which implies it might probably lastly accommodate full-sized European pallets proper off a forklift. The brand new plastic-moulded bedliner is properly textured and feels sturdy, and the rear field caps might be eliminated to disclose tie-down factors for a wide range of equipment, comparable to a cover or curler shutter. Additionally, the third brake mild has been moved to the tailgate for higher visibility.
The loading bay additionally options two built-in energy sockets (each rated at 240 volt, 400 watt), in addition to C-clamp pockets within the tailgate for the occasional woodworking. Thai fashions don’t appear to ship with the metric ruler, however the tailgate stays assisted with tensioners, identical to earlier than.
Fanciest cockpit in its class, by far
At a look, the Ranger’s cabin feels prefer it doesn’t belong in a pick-up truck, as a result of the toys you get are virtually unparalleled on this section. Taking centre stage is a slab of glass that measures 12 inches diagonally, and this one comes outfitted with Ford’s SYNC 4A working system as customary.
Wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be found for the primary time on the Ranger, and a built-in e-SIM (provider plan but to be decided) allows over-the-air software program updates, plus a WiFi hotspot in addition to the FordPass smartphone app. Lesser variants will accept a smaller 10-inch show, however comes with the identical aforementioned functionalities. Insane.
The person interface is uncluttered and fairly simple to get used to, and contact response is sweet. The underside-most part of the display screen is reserved solely for prolonged HVAC controls, however fortunately, there are nonetheless bodily buttons under the show for direct AC changes.
The identical can’t be stated for activating the rear differential lock, although. That is performed solely by way of the show, and Ford says it really works simply in addition to a devoted change (they each ship an digital sign to activate a solenoid within the diff). That’s till the show blows, in fact.
Instrumentation has gone fully digital this time round. Whereas it isn’t probably the most graphically spectacular unit available on the market, the eight-inch display screen remains to be a lot fancy for a pick-up truck. The smaller binnacle is a good instance of simplifying digital instrumentation, placing emphasis on perform over aptitude.
It supplies solely probably the most helpful driving knowledge, so there’s no novel rounded analogue gauges to refill the display screen. As a substitute, you get a speedo readout, ADAS graphics, and a tiled part for 4 of your most well-liked driving knowledge. The vertical rpm gauge is fastened on the left, whereas the gasoline and temp gauges sit exterior of the show. Easy.
The entrance seats are barely extra comfy (higher bolster and thigh assist) due to a full redesign, and the Wildtrak will get a Qi wi-fi charging pad to go together with the USB-C and USB-A ports.
There are rear air vents for the primary time, in addition to two extra USB ports (additionally USB-C and USB-A) and a three-pin energy socket. The rear bench is pretty related by way of seating angle and luxury to the earlier Ranger, however spatial positive factors are negligible.
Is it actually extra car-like on asphalt as Ford claims?
The Ranger T6 set the bar excessive for on-road driving qualities when it got here out, so it’s not stunning for the Blue Oval to double down on precisely that with the brand new mannequin. This time, the pick-up will get twin-tube dampers (monotube beforehand), and the entrance shocks are moved to the outboard to enhance trip consolation.
The dampers take in undulations and highway humps far more gracefully this time, and you may lean into corners extra confidently. It’s nonetheless a tall chap (it’s a pick-up, in spite of everything), so anticipate the same old lateral roll, however it’s proper up there with the very best.
There’s no escaping the occasional thumps from the strong beam rear axle with leaf springs, however the brand new Ranger does really feel noticeably extra composed and pliant at increased speeds. Quieter too, the truth is, with observably higher NVH ranges.
The two.0 litre bi-turbo diesel is extra refined and delivers energy extra linearly than earlier than, however output is barely down. It now makes 210 PS at 3,750 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 1,750 to 2,000 rpm, versus the older tune of 213 PS. The distinction is insignificant in the true world, however what’s vital to notice is the engine is claimed to be extra dependable now, and that the oil leak challenge has been resolved with higher gaskets design.
Gearshifts on the 10R80 10-speeder really feel extra seamless this time due to a model new torque converter and tighter gearing, the latter leading to higher responsiveness off the road. Ford additionally made positive to beef up the gearbox for higher sturdiness, however on the similar time managed to make it weigh much less.
Off-road? No sweat
The Ranger’s spectacular duality is generally what seals the deal for patrons, and what they wished this time is for the pick-up to supply even higher off-road efficiency. First, the entrance wheels have been moved 50 mm ahead, growing its strategy angle from 28.5 to 30 levels and departure angle from 21 to 23 levels. All 4 wheels are additionally pushed 50 mm outwards, bettering high-speed driving and cornering stability, in addition to selling better axle articulation. Wading depth stays unchanged at 800 mm, by the best way.
Additional conveniences are afforded by the 360-degree encompass view digital camera system (replete with an aerial frontal view), and the 4WD Terrain Administration System options upgraded logic to make mild work of your off-road endeavours. We drove the Ranger by means of thick silt and clay with out breaking a sweat, and it did so on common avenue tyres.
The dearth of a full-time four-wheel drive mode on our tester means the Triton continues to be uncontested within the section, although that would change with the arrival of the Ranger Raptor, or the higher-spec Wildtrak with the three.0 litre V6 turbodiesel. In any other case, you’ll should accept the great outdated 2H, 4H and 4L modes.
The brand new Ranger is true again on the high of the sport
Objectively, the all-new Ranger has been improved in almost all facets as a pick-up truck. It appears higher in and out, drives extra competently on any terrain, and now matches the D-Max as regards to superior driving aids and security techniques.
The Wildtrak bi-turbo will get seven airbags, entrance and rear AEB, clever adaptive cruise management with stop-and-go perform, lane holding help with highway edge safety, blind spot monitoring system, in addition to rear cross-traffic alert with auto brake. These options could seem pointless for hardcore off-road lovers, however are literally nice to have for urbanites, particularly for a car of this dimension.
Personally, it’s the entire package deal, and the highest Wildtrak is probably going pretty much as good because it will get. There received’t be a fancier pick-up than the Ford Ranger to return to Malaysia anytime quickly, so in case you ask us, the Ranger is as soon as once more probably the most fascinating mannequin in its section.
UPDATE: The 2022 Ford Ranger has been formally launched in Malaysia, and arrives in XL, XLT, XLT Plus and Wildtrak variant kinds. Learn the launch report right here.
