Hot from the launch floor, Ford and its local distributor Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) has unveiled the “tougher, smarter, more efficient” new Ranger in Malaysia!
Featuring a new-look front end, and a stylish, smart and functional new interior, the new Ranger builds upon a reputation of capability, innovation and comfort that has helped this popular pick up truck to stand apart from other pick up trucks in its class. It also boasts an array of new cutting-edge technologies that enable new and more practical solutions to everyday challenges.
The changes to the Ranger begin with an updated exterior design. It now comes with bold, more modern and muscular look, to make the truck instantly recognizable. The new interior of the Ford Ranger may look more car-like, but it creates an even more comfortable, contemporary environment for the driver and passengers.
At launch, the all-new Ford Ranger is offered in 2 choices of engines paired to either a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission.
For maximum power and torque for heavy-duty towing, Ford is offering the latest generation of its globally proven 3.2-litre Duratorq 5-cylinder TDCi diesel engine. Upgrades including an updated exhaust gas recirculation system help to improve fuel efficiency by up to 12%, while putting out 200 PS and 470 Nm of torque.
Customers can also choose the latest generation of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine, which delivers significantly improved fuel efficiency and refinement while providing 160 PS of power and 385Nm of torque – an increase in both power and torque over the current 2.2-litre Ranger.
In terms of tech and gizmos, the new Ranger is equipped with an array of smart technologies, designed with the driver in mind. The top-of-the-line WildTrak variant comes well-equipped with SYNC 2, the latest generation of Ford’s in-car connectivity system that boasts an 8-inch colour touchscreen to operate phone, entertainment and climate control using a simple voice command system. The XLT variant only the other hand, features SYNC with a 4.2-inch display.
Besides SYNC technology, the new Ranger feature Ford’s MyKey system, which allows the programming of various features, such as setting the maximum speed limit, a seatbelt reminder and the maximum volume of the audio system.
The new Ranger is the only pickup in Malaysia to include audible parking sensors in both the front and rear. It also features Front and Rear Park Assist and a rear-view camera.
It goes without saying that the Ford Ranger remains one of the most capable trucks in its class. With a class-leading ability to wade through water up to 800 mm deep, and with 230 mm of ground clearance, it is designed and engineered to handle the most extreme terrains with ease. Thanks to a 28-degree approach angle and 25-degree departure angle, drivers in the new Ranger can feel confident when taking on steep obstacles.
A robust electronically controlled transfer case allows drivers in 4×4 models to shift on the fly from 4×2 to 4×4 high with a knob on the center console. For low-speed torque or additional downhill braking, drivers can also engage low-range 4×4 gearing, while an electronic locking rear differential helps to improve traction in difficult conditions. These off-road strengths are matched by towing capability of up to 3,500 kg and exceptional payload capacity.
The Ranger achieves all this with a level of refinement not usually seen in the pickup truck segment. While the current Ranger already sets the standard for ride and handling, Ford engineers has fine-tuned its suspension for additional comfort and even better handling.
The driving experience is further enhanced by an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which provides precise steering with a natural and confident feel. With EPAS, steering is light and manageable for low-speed maneuvering, such as parking, and precise at higher speeds – with assistance varying as necessary based on speed, steering wheel angle, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration. By eliminating the power steering pump used in a traditional power-steering system, EPAS also results in a quieter vehicle and improves fuel efficiency by about 3%.
There is also an array of driver assist technologies that help to make your drive more convenient. This include Lane Keeping Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Alert, Front and Rear Park Assist; Tyre Pressure Monitoring System; Electronic Stability Program as well as Driver Impairment Monitor that uses the forward-facing camera and on-board sensors to detect if the driver is drowsy.
Other smart technologies on the new Ranger include Hill Launch Assist, to help you confidently start off from a slope, whether in forward or reverse; Hill Descent Control, which uses the traction control system to help you descend steep slopes at a constant speed; Adaptive Load Control, which adjusts the Electronic Stability Control system based on vehicle load; and Emergency Brake Assistance, which provides additional pressure to the brake system to increase braking force when you apply the brakes quickly in an emergency situation.
Manufactured at its AutoAlliance Thailand facility in Rayong, Thailand, the all-new Ranger XL retails at RM91,588 on-the-road, the Ranger XLT retails at RM101,388 on-the-road, while the 3.2L Ranger WildTrak is priced at RM132,188.
Buyers can choose from six colours, including Pride Orange, Cool White, Metropolitan Grey, Aluminum Metallic, Black Mica, and Aurora Blue.
You can admire its new looks in the photo gallery below!
