AWAY IN A RANGER

AT A GLANCE

FORD RANGER FX4 MAX PRICE About $74,000 drive-away

ENGINE 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 157kW and 500Nm

WARRANTY/SERVICE 5-year, u’ltd km/ $2490 for 5 years

SAFETY 6 airbags, auto emergency braking, active cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist

THIRST 8L/100km

SPARE Full-size

Cargo 981kg payload, 3500kg towing the latter is a full tonne more than Ford’s flagship ute.

ALTERNATIVES

NEW FORD RANGER WILDTRAK, TBC (EST. $75,000 DRIVE-AWAY)

Set to arrive mid-year, the new Ranger brings new toys including a powerful V6 and 12-inch touchscreen.

TOYOTA HILUX RUGGED X, ABOUT $76,000 DRIVE-AWAY

Genuine accessories increase the appeal of Australia’s favourite car.

NISSAN NAVARA WARRIOR, ABOUT $78,000 DRIVE-AWAY

Like the FX4 Max, the Navara Warrior looks tough and has real off-road ability.

VERDICT

Ford did a great job maintaining the outgoing Ranger’s appeal throughout its life cycle. The FX4 Max is one of its best efforts – though we’re inclined to wait a few months for the next-generation model.