At the end of 2023, Ford South Africa announced the Ranger Tremor is heading to local shores. However, this sub-R1 million Ranger is not the only new Ranger derivative scheduled for our market. Yup, you read that right — another Ranger variant is coming to SA, and it comes in the shape of the Platinum.
Spearheading the Ranger portfolio (if you don’t count the Ranger Raptor, of course), the Platinum model, Ford SA says, offers exceptional versatility with the luxury, comfort and refinement of a premium SUV.
So, what can you expect from the Ranger Platinum? Well, for starters, like the Platinum-spec Everest it features a host of chrome exterior finishes for a touch of sophistication. In addition, it sits on a set of striking 20-inch alloy wheels. Matrix LED headlamps are also included in the Platinum package. “Platinum” badging is, of course, found all around the bodywork.
This Ranger is available in five body hues. The colour palette includes Iconic Silver, Frozen White, Carbonized Grey, Lucid Red and Agate Black.
Stepping inside, the Ranger Platinum is equipped with 10-way electrically adjustable, quilted-and-perforated leather seats, which are unique to this model. The pews also feature heating and ventilation functionality. “Platinum” badges are sited on the back of the front seats and on the floor mats.
Like its similarly specced bakkie-based SUV stablemate, the Ranger Platinum is available with only one engine option — the Blue Oval brand’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel, which is coupled with the firm’s familiar 10-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged oil-burner churns out 184 kW and 600 Nm of torque.
So, how much will this Ranger cost when it arrives in SA at the end of the first quarter of 2024? Well, in short: R1 119 000.
“The new Ranger led the South African double-cab segment in 2023 … thanks to its exceptional all-round capabilities … along with its car-like driving characteristics and outstanding safety,” said Doreen Mashinini, General Manager for Marketing at Ford South Africa.
“[The] Ranger Platinum now takes the bakkie segment into unchartered territory by providing the exceptional levels of luxury, comfort and refinement normally associated with premium SUVs.”