Ranger returns to North America with one impressive little engine
The hotly anticipated Ford Ranger’s turbocharged four-cylinder will offer more torque than competing V6s, according to figures for the new truck released by the automaker.
The pickup, slated to be released in early 2019, hasn’t been available in North America since 2011 when Ford discontinued it, but now it’s back to compete in the mid-size truck segment.
The truck will be available in three trim levels — XL, XLT and Lariat — all of which will come with the 2.3-litre turbocharged Eco-
Boost four-cylinder engine, which delivers 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque.
Whether you choose four-wheel or two-wheel drive, power gets to your wheels through a triple-overdrive 10-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel-drive models will have a two-speed transfer case that can be shifted while on the move.
FX2 and FX4 packages bring some off-road fun to the Ranger, including an upgraded electronically locking rear differential, a Four-Mode Terrain Management System (first seen in the Raptor) and, for the FX4 only, a new system called Trail Control, which works to maintain a constant low speed on rough road, so you don’t have to use the brakes when going down a steep incline.
Maximum payload for the bodyon-frame truck is 844 kilograms, with a towing capacity rated at 3,400 kg. Only one wheelbase is offered, but you can have it as a SuperCab with a long bed or SuperCrew with a short bed.
Available safety systems include lane-keep assist, blind-spot information system with trailer coverage, pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. FordPass Connect also brings you in-car Wi-Fi, with connection for up to 10 devices and a range up to 15 metres outside the truck.
The Ranger nameplate has been a bestseller in Europe all this time, but this new North American version shares almost nothing with its European counterpart.