The Ford Ranger has been one of the toughest vehicles we have driven, in the several iterations we have sampled. It has been falling a bit behind where the passenger cabin is concerned. But all that should be set right by the 2011 version, which Ford has just revealed at the Australian International Motor Show.
As previously promised, the Ford Ranger is bigger and more stylish, as it is meant to serve as a global truck under the company’s “One Ford” initiative. Wheelbase has grown by 220mm, to the benefit of both cockpit space and the cargo area.
The Ranger will be powered by either of two Duratorq turbodiesel engines: a 2.2-liter inline-four with 148 bhp and 375 Nm, and a new 3.2-liter inline-five with 198 bhp and 470 Nm. They will be mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Naturally, 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains will be available. The 4×4 will have an electronically-controlled transfer case with selectable low-range gearing.
The new Ranger is built on a stiffer frame, with up to 232mm ground clearance. Drivetrain components are now tucked away above the frame rail. Despite the larger size and wider track, Ford promises a still-manageable turning circle.
Suspension is double wishbones up front and leaf sprints at the back. Stability control will be standard on the ranger. In addition, Trailer Sway Mitigation helps stabilize the vehicle when it is towing a trailer, and Adaptive Load Control helps to maintain a level ride. Side-curtain airbags and park assist with camera will be available.
Styling looks like a winner, Ford calling it “21st Century Tough.” Ford expects that the vehicle will be multi-purpose, catering to leisure as well as work. The cabin is expected to easily fit five passengers, with easier ingress.
The Ranger’s R&D and styling was done in Australia, hence the launch here, but initial production will be in (no surprise) Thailand. Together with Argentina and South Africa, it will produce the pickup for global markets.
The most exciting bit about the new Ranger is that it will be the basis for the next-generation Everest. An Everest that is big enough to bully the Toyota Fortuner and the Mitsubishi Montero Sport–that’s one fight contender we would like to see.
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