Ford draws up the battle Lines
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The updated Ford Ranger has arrived. It boasts a fresh new exterior and a selection of interior modifications, but will it impress the market?
THE TIMING FOR Ford's launch of the latest version of its Ranger pickup is strange. especi ally considering the market for this type of vehicle is down by nearly 50% in 2009.
Despite these numbers, Ford has taken the view that attack is the best form of defence, and it is hoping the updated Ranger will bring about a return to happier times.
For the revamped Ranger, there are four trim levels on offer, starting with the base X „ followed by XLT,Thunder and the range-topping Wiltitrak.
However, engine choices are limited to a 142hp 2.5-litre TDC1 (available for the first time with optional automatic transmission) and a more powerful 154hp 3.0-litre diesel both of which can be specified as 4)(2 or 4x4.
Being tall is no problem
On the exterior, wraparound headlights are the most obvious changes that have been made to the front end; and they help create a sleeker, more modern appearance. These are enhanced by a redesigned grille and front bumper.
Moving towards the back of the vehicle, clear tail-lights add a bit of shine and help disguise the Ranger's CV underpinnings. Climbing inside the pickup, we quickly settled into a comfortable driving position, thanks mainly to the height-and-reach-adjustable steering wheel and black leather seats.
In addition, there's plenty of legroom available, as well as good seat travel, which helps to accommodate even the tallest of drivers.
The dashboard is dominated by a functional central console that houses the usual array of buttons and dials for air conditioning and radio functions. But we're not, completely sold on the silver trim, which doesn't quite match the dark dashboard, and will probably struggle to hide marks and scuffs that appear through general wear and tear.
With almost the entire model range at our disposal, we opted to test the Wildtrak first...
Ride and comfort
Its on-road dynamics are as good as it gets when it comes to pickups. and there's only the smallest hint of bodyroll in the corners. At slower speeds, the steering feels meaty and direct, but soon lightens as the Ranger approaches national speed limits.
One feature to help distinguish the range-topper from lesser models is the Larger 18-inch alloy wheels, which come as standard. These help to enhance its outward appearance, but do precious little for the ride.
The Thunder, on the other hand, offers the hest mix of ride, comfort and practicality — no wonder Ford expects it to he the top seller in the line-up.
As Steve Kimber,conunercial vehicle director, Ford of Britain, says: We expect that of the total number of Rangers sold, half will he the Thunder."
Aside from all the creature comforts packed inside, the Ranger is still an LCV. in single-cab form. the load area is 1.5m3 and 1m3 in the double-cab.
This compares favourably to rivals such as the Mitsubishi L200 (0.7m3), but so far it only matches its closest rival — the Toyota Hilux — on loadbox volume. Payloads vary from one tonne on the 3.0-litre manual double-cabs to 1.2 tonnes on the 2.5-litre 4x4 single-cab.
The entire Ranger line-up is backed up by a standard three-year/60,000 miles warranty, with service intervals set at one year/12,500 miles.
Prices for the Ranger pickups start at .£13,400 for the single-cab XL 4x2 version, and increase to £21,850 if you want the Wildtrak. •
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