Interaction breeds adaptability

Ford teases features of new Ranger

In the February edition of NZ4WD, we took a close look at the new Ford Ranger, due here in July. One of the big messages from Ford has been the Australasian interaction and feedback used to develop the new ute.

As a result, customers will be able to personalise their next-gen Ranger with a range of as many as 600 factory-backed work, urban and adventure accessories.

The spec sheet will include accessories developed in collaboration with true-blue Aussie off-road icon ARB.

For owners keen to make their Ranger offroad camping ready, the design team made sure to create a space in the engine bay for a dual battery set-up.

Ford is highlighting the development of the ute’s tray as a ‘Cargo Box’ that can be configured to suit specific roles and can be quickly set up for that weekend away or week-long exploration.

Ranger is now 50mm wider, and will accommodate a standard European pallet (1,200mm x 800mm) in the bed. The new drop-in bedliner incorporates functional divider locators enabling owners to create compartments for gear that they might otherwise have to carry in the cabin.

An internal rail with spring-loaded, adjustable cleats on either side of the cargo box allows customers to configure their cleats and tie-downs to suit every load.

Wildtrak models will be fitted with aluminium extrusions that double as tiedown rails that run the full length of the cargo box.

Roof top platform mounts allow for the easy fitment of roof accessories, like racks or a platform.

The available powered roller shutter allows customers to open and close the box cover using their key fob or from a switch inside the cargo box or from the instrument panel.