Optional Sport Pack unveiled for Ford Ranger XL
FVisually, Ranger XL models equipped with the Sport Pack are easily distinguished by an eye-catching gloss black grille that replaces the plain black version used on the standard models.
ORD Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has significantly boosted the appeal of the Ranger XL line-up with the launch of an enticing range of new options comprising an attractive Sport Pack, useful side steps and an eight-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system.
“The Ranger XL is our value-oriented offering that suits a wide variety of applications, from the hard-working Single Cab with its spacious loadbox, the practical SuperCab that provides additional storage capacity behind the front seats, or the comfortable Double Cab that is equally suited to business or family use,” said Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at FMCSA.
“With the addition of the Sport Pack option we’re giving the Ranger XL more upmarket flair while enhancing its day-to-day practicality,” Mashinini says. “Customers now also have the choice of upgrading from the entrylevel SYNC®1 system to a touchscreen
infotainment system with an integrated eight-inch display that provides improved connectivity, ease of use and driving safety.”
Visually, Ranger XL models equipped with the Sport Pack are distinguished by an eye-catching gloss black grille that replaces the plain black version used on the standard models. The same exclusive theme continues to the wheel and tyre choice, as the normal 16-inch silver alloy wheels are upgraded to 17-inch Panther gloss black cast alloy rims with larger diameter 265/65 R17 tyres.
In keeping with its more dynamic appearance, the Sport Pack also adds a tubular sports bar in the rear load compartment, as well as a black rear bumper.
Aside from the addition of the Sport Pack to the Ranger XL options list, customers can also opt for the dealer-fitted black side steps that greatly improve access to the cabin – whether using the vehicle on a work site or loading up the family for
a weekend of adventure.
Connectivity and in-car entertainment are also taken up several notches, as the Ranger XL can now be ordered with Ford’s optional touchscreen infotainment system in place of the entry-level SYNC®1 unit with a four-inch LCD display.
The system features a large eight-inch full colour touchscreen display. Although it makes do without embedded voice recognition and navigation, it remains a feature-packed offering incorporating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when paired with compatible smartphones. This allows users to access the respective phone’s navigation functions or other approved apps such as Waze.
It also supports phone calls from a Bluetooth-connected device, text-tospeech for messages and WiFi hotspot compatibility. Two USB slots provide additional multimedia connection options.
In addition to the expanded options, the Ranger XL is equipped with an impressive list of standard features. The safety package
comprises ABS brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Rollover Mitigation, Adaptive Load Control and Trailer Sway Control. The four-wheel drive models gain Hill Descent Control (HDC), with a rear diff-lock fitted as standard on all 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives. All Ranger XL models are fitted with a tow bar as standard equipment.
The Ranger XL is powered by Ford’s proven, economical 2.2-litre four-cylinder Duratorq TDCi engine which produces 118kW of power, along with 385Nm of torque from 1 500 to 2 500 r/min.
The Single Cab and SuperCab models are available in two and four-wheel drive specification mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed automatic in the 4x2 derivative. The Ranger XL Double Cab can be specified in 4x2 or 4x4 versions, with both available in manual or automatic.