The locally built Ford Ranger and its Everest SUV sibling has been enhanced with an extensive range of mechanical and technological feature and comfort upgrades, including the introduction of the all-new 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo and Single Turbo diesel engines (assembled in Port Elizabeth), a new 10-speed automatic transmission, and a revised suspension set-up for improved ride comfort. It is by far the biggest upgrade for the current-generation Ranger, but the proven 2.2- and 3.2 TDCi engines remain an integral part of the line-up.
The XL, XLS, and XLT variants now have a centre grille bar divided into two, giving it a more precise and well-crafted look, and new front bumper design. The range-topping Wildtrak, now with HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights, has been intentionally kept more familiar but is more aggressive. Its lower bumper surface is more chiselled, and a striking Saber Orange exterior colour makes its debut on the Wildtrak. The interior is now Ebony Black and the seats have been redesigned to be both sportier and more luxurious.
The 2.0 Single Turbo engine, offered on the Double Cab XLT 4×4 and 4×2 derivatives, delivers 132 kW and 420 Nm from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm, while the high-tech 2.0 Bi-Turbo engine, available on the Wildtrak (and soon on the Raptor), is rated at 157 kW and 500 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,000 rpm.
The five-cylinder 147 kW/470 Nm 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine, and two versions of the 2.2-litre TDCi (88 kW/285 Nm with a five-speed manual gearbox or 118 kW/385 Nm for six-speed manual and auto transmissions) will remain. In total 33 models are available in the new Ranger line-up, with pricing ranging from R287,100 for the 2.2 TDCi single cab Base 5MT 4×2 to R678,200 for the 2.0 BiT Wildtrak double cab 10AT 4×4.
Besides sharing the new engines, the Everest models also have a range of styling, suspension, and feature upgrades, including a keyless Passive Entry and Passive Start (PEPS) system on the XLT and Limited models. Six models, with prices from R499,900 for the 2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4×2 to R741,100 for the 2.0 BiT Limited 10AT 4×4, is now available.
