Ford Ranger (UK) (United Kingdom, 2011-present)

Ford presented its all-new Ranger 2011 at the 2010 Australian International Motor Show. The 2011 Ford Ranger received an all-new chassis frame, front and rear suspension and steering system, delivering more payload and towing capability. It is powered by two new fuel-efficient common rail Ford Duratorq TDCi diesels and new fuel-efficient six-speed automatic and manual transmissions.

In order to reduce the costs of ownership work has been made to improve fuel efficiency. Ford used the same simulation technology employed by Formula One teams. Aerodynamicists performed more than 1,000 full-vehicle aerodynamic simulations to improve the shape of the vehicle.

Thanks to its new chassis, the Ford Ranger offers more capability along with car-like comfort, reduced steering effort, more precise handling and better on-road stability. In terms of off-road-performance, Ford says that it has been improved thanks to a stiffer frame, ground clearance of up to 232mm and driveline components that have been strategically mounted above the frame rail.

The new Ford Ranger will be available in 4x2 and 4x4 and in three different engines: one 2.5l Duratec petrol engine with 163hp and 226Nm of torque and a 5-speed manual transmission; and two diesel engines, a 2.2l Duratorq engine with either 118, 123 or 147 hp mated with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission and a 3.2l Duratorq engine with a power output of 197hp and also a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

These versions are available as double cab, open cab/rear access panel or single cab.

The pickup also received a new look, called by designers “21st Century Tough.” It keeps the strong appearance and muscularity of a pickup but also brings a more sophisticated and refined style that tries to appeal to a new generation of pickup owners.

The 2012 Ford Ranger is the first pickup ever to receive a 5 star Euro NCAP score with strong scores in adult, child and pedestrian protected. Scoring 89% in the test is the highest ever for a pickup truck, and it scored 81% for pedestrian protection, which is the highest rating for any vehicle ever tested by the Euro NCAP. The 2012 Ranger has put an emphasis on safety. The passenger cell has been reinforced with high-strength steel, and crash energy is directed around occupants to keep them safer. Side curtain airbags are standard on the Ranger for the first time.

For driver safety, the new Ranger has traction control and Trailer Sway Control and Adaptive Load Control all to make the truck safer when driving under a load. It also has Hill Descent Control to keep the car safe when going down a hill whether with a load or without.

Wildtrak

The Wildtrak edition features a typical off-road styling, an audio steering wheel control, bluetooth connectivity and voice command system. It also includes front heated seat, dual-zone climate control, alarm system and traction control. Contributing to its safety is the Electric Stability Programme (ESP), Hill launch assist and hill descent control available in the 3.2l diesel versions.