Ford Ranger XLT

King of the Hill. If Ford’s Ranger isn’t that yet, it must be getting very close. Sure, the lack of a high-rolling 2WD auto in the previous line-up hurt Toyota in the city and rural fringe, but the lesson Ranger has brought to the market is a simple one, “build it and (if it’s good enough, and what punters want) they will come!” Not only that, but just when Toyota was finalising worldwide launch details of its allnew Gen 8 model, Ford announced a major mid-life Ranger facelift. That facelift included a new, tougher, more assertive nose, a new electric power steering system, a sleek new interior complete with new dash (including a new eight-inch screen and reversing camera at XLT spec level this time around) and a host of fine-tooth-comb refinements to the chassis, suspension, running gear and spec. Unchanged, for good reason, was the Ranger’s signature 3.2 litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and matching sixspeed (in our case) automatic transmission, although some work was done on the gear change mapping to make it smoother and quicker. It’s the ride quality that really sets the Ranger apart in this company, though. On or off the road, ride is really in another – SUVequalling – league. As Damien O’carroll said in his summing up: “Superb ride and handling. Comfortable, compliant and brilliantly absorbent. Simply shouldn’t be this good!” John Oxley agreed, complimenting the new electric power steering system for being positive and light and the suspension for the way it “soaked up the bumps off-road” yet at the same time, provided “car-like handling on the road, particularly for such a big and comfortable truck.” Ride quality is not the Ranger’s only strong suit either. The power plant remains one of the best in the (car AND commercial) business. “What a wonderful engine, “enthused John. “While the rest seem noisy and (distinctively) diesel, the Ranger’s purrs like a petrol with huge torque and flexibility.” That said, the Ranger isn’t perfect. The sleek new dashboard with large centrallymounted speedo and (if you can work how to call it up) rev counter is not everyone’s cup of tea. I know I preferred the old twin dial,