The new locally-built Ford Ranger now encompasses more technology, ruggedness and competitive pricing
The Ford Ranger has been the talk of the town for years, and it is a car that has made its name in the market, giving consumers the advantage of having a capable and comfortable bakkie both on and off-road. With 24 models in the lineup, the Next Generation Ranger is surely going to reach each and every kind of individual.
Built in the Ford Assembly Plant in Silverton, Pretoria, Ford has invested R15.8billion to upgrade the facility and bring in new supplies and technology in order for the Ranger to be built. There has also been a R600 million investment to the Straundale Engine Plant in Gqeberha in order for the new 3.0l V6 diesel engine to be produced and to enhance the current assembly line for the 2.0L single turbo and Bi-Turbo engines. Notable improvements to the Ford Ranger include the revised front grille, signature C-clamp headlights and accentuated wheel arches that give the bakkie such a striking and phenomenal look. The design culture extends harmoniously to the back, allowing for a sinuous flow of improved and rugged design.
There are new engine choices, too. The 3.0L V6 will produce a whopping 184Kw/600nM mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox, including a permanent all-wheel drive system. The 2.0L single turbo and Bi-turbo engines will still be available to customers, and those produce 125Kw/405Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Ford has pulled out all the stops with this vehicle seemingly, as they say they have improved even the drive of the vehicle, by moving the front wheels 50mm forward, for better off-road comprehension, and improved suspension dampers so that consumers can also have a pleasurable on-road experience, too.
The Next-Gen Ranger comes with an array of new and enhanced active and passive safety features, such Dynamic Stability Control incorporating ABS, Load Adaptive Control, Roll Over Mitigation, Traction Control and Trailer Sway Control, just to name a few. We are sure that the success of the Ranger will continue, as this bakkie seems to have all the bells and whistles and not to mention that it looks the part.
*Pricing starts from R486 000 for the 2.0L SiT double cab base model, and goes up to R953 500 for the
3.0L V6 Wildtrak, which is highly competitive and remarkable pricing. Included as standard is a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.