In Cars, Ford, International News / Matthew H Tong / November 24, 2021 3:15 PM / 19 comments

Finally, Ford finally launched the new Ranger, a full 10 years after the launch of the Ranger T6. This time, Ranger was completely remodeled and extensively developed based on customer feedback. The new Ranger is also a truly global mid-size pickup truck (which will be sold in more than 180 markets). The three models released today are XLT, Sport and Wildtrak variants.

There are many things to unravel, but we will start with the most exciting one-the power system. Due to popular demand, the new 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine is now on the market for the first time. It uses the same engine as the F-150, but is modified and adjusted specifically for the medium-sized Ranger. Due to the new hydroformed front end structure, a 3.0-liter rolling mill can be installed, which also allows more airflow into the radiator.

Its turbocharger benefits from a redesigned lubrication system, which helps it perform optimally at extreme tilt angles, especially during hard-core off-road use. Ford said that this engine will provide first-class performance and a relaxed towing experience, which is what Ranger owners want. It is obviously also a very delicate unit.

Another new product in the Propulsion series is the 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost (gasoline) mill, followed by the familiar 2.0-liter twin-turbo and 2.0-liter single-turbo diesel engine. The oil leakage problem of the twin-turbine mill has also been solved by better gasket design. The automaker is tight-lipped about the electrification plan, but made it clear that the transformed T6 platform is future-oriented and can be electrified.

Ranger T6 project manager Pritika Maharaj said: “We simulated extreme customer usage by running these engines continuously for more than 700 hours at full throttle. It’s like traveling the world six times at full throttle! Oh, by the way, at -40 Do this in the temperature range from degrees Celsius to over 50 degrees Celsius."

The 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission will also continue to be provided, this time it is updated to be more durable (overcome some of the current shortcomings) and lightweight. It is equipped with a brand new torque converter to achieve better refinement and responsiveness, so there will be no "lag" or dead zone even when accelerating in a static state.

The gap between the transmission ratios has also been tightened. This action increases the power output at low engine loads-which is good for traction and off-road. There is also a new adaptive shift scheduling feature that can predetermine the exact gear required by the engine, but the smart part is that it can adapt to your driving style. A new "trailer" mode is also provided, but this may be unique to models equipped with 10R80 gearboxes.

The new MT88 manual gearbox replaces the existing MT82 gearbox and is specially developed for the T6 platform. According to Ford, the MT88 has been tested on four continents for more than four years, and its modular and expandable design can be adapted to five-speed or six-speed configurations. Single turbocharged models will continue to use the 6R80 gearbox, but after recalibration, the efficiency is slightly higher than before.

As mentioned above, the Ranger is still sitting on the bones of the third-generation T6 platform. However, Ford stated that every component of the trapezoidal frame structure has been "touched", even though it uses a similar suspension setup-independent front suspension and a solid beam axle with rear leaf springs.

The front wheels have been moved forward by 50 mm (lengthened the wheelbase) for a better approach angle, and the track width has also been increased by 50 mm to provide better axle articulation. The suspension frame rails have also been transferred, providing drivers and passengers with a ride quality that is more like a car, taking the Ranger's famous multi-purpose quality further.

Customers can choose between two four-wheel drive systems. The first is the familiar part-time 4×4 with electronic dynamic shift system, and the other is the more advanced full-time 4×4 system with a new electronic switch and two-speed transfer case (4H and 4L) ). Some variants will also get Ranger Raptor's driving mode for the first time-as well as an electronic parking brake.

Now, let's talk about design. At first glance, the Built Ford Tough's motto is clearly visible, and the instrument panel is now aligned with the rest of the Ford pickup series. The new "C-clamp" headlights are interlocked with the new grille to create an appearance that exudes confidence and ruggedness, while the shoulder line becomes more subtle, but still emphasizes the more prominent wheel fenders. The fender vents are flush with the metal plate and actually work by letting the heat from the engine compartment escape.

Ranger offers matrix LED lighting for the first time, but cheaper models will be equipped with reflector LEDs or halogen reflectors. Ford has reduced the use of chrome, hoping that this will make the Ranger more attractive to young people.

At the rear is a pair of unique LED combined tail lights, and the tail door handle is integrated directly under the LED third brake light. By the way, the reversing camera is hidden under the Ford badge. Wheel sizes now range from 17 to 20 inches (for Wildtrak), the latter being Ranger's first.

There are many useful and practical functions here, starting from the back box step. This makes it easier to load and unload items, so customers no longer need to step on the rear wheels to enter the cargo hold. The texture of the step base is exactly the same as the side step and rear bumper step, so it has enough grip in all seasons, and the box step is structural (suitable for two big feet!) so it can support heavier people. This is the standard for all variants, and it is only a matter of time before other pickup manufacturers start copying it.

The cargo box has also been widened by 50 mm and can now accommodate full-size pallets. There is a new plastic molded bed sheet, a 400-watt 240-volt socket, and a load box cover to protect the paint and metal plates. Ford has integrated actual pockets and metric/imperial rulers on the tailgate, and doubled the lighting-LED load box lighting on the left and right armrests, which can work in low light conditions, and the surrounding 360-degree area illuminates the car (can pass through Ford’s mobile app access) and high-power "super puddle" LED lights under the rearview mirror.

In addition, there are structural tie-down points for fixed loads and a range of other after-sales accessories (including canopies), and a new cargo management system with partitions that can accommodate items of various sizes. Customers can also use the super spring splint system clamped into the guide rails to create smaller compartments to store loose items. There are double recovery hooks on the front instead of one.

Inside, the cabin has been completely remodeled, and its core is a large vertical 12-inch touch screen infotainment system with Ford's SYNC 4 system. There is also a built-in modem for wireless software updates and WiFi hotspot functions, and car owners can communicate with the car through the FordPass mobile app. It can also access functions such as remote engine start, vehicle status check, and remote lock/unlock functions.

The display integrates a series of information, including off-road data and transmission system statistics. Depending on the model, there is also a fully digital dashboard (customizable view), 360-degree high-resolution surround view camera and wireless smartphone charger.

Ford has developed three types of shifters this time, including a new short-stroke variant, which is said to look more modern and more intuitive to use. Other features include retractable cup holders, multiple storage boxes (below and behind the rear seats), upper and lower glove boxes, and USB-C charging ports. The smaller variant will get a smaller touch screen display and a slightly redesigned console.

The automaker has not disclosed details related to the new Ranger’s advanced driver assistance system, but it did state that it “sets a high standard for this Ranger’s outstanding performance in five key areas-attitude and stability, traction, off-road Capability, performance and driving performance, as well as driver assistance technology. It is expected that there will be at least level 2 automatic driving, and no less.

A Ranger concierge will also be established for customers to handle sales and after-sales inquiries, and selected markets will receive a new 4WD test drive course, and potential customers can drive Ranger off-road under the guidance of professional instructors.

Finally, Ford stated that the new Ranger can be customized with up to 600 original factory-supported accessories, some of which were developed in cooperation with the off-road icon ARB 4×4 accessories. The new Ranger will be produced at Ford's plants in Thailand and South Africa early next year and will be available in up to eight colors. idea?

Don't waste time on Ranger la, RHD Bronco please...

Hope it is "sturdy" this time haha. Too bad, it is still riding on the T6 platform.

Ford is always tenacious

Although this car looks great, and I like the powertrain and gearbox upgrades, their dealers in Malaysia are boring and the after-sales service is also a headache.

Still selling ICE in 2022... well...

You make this sound like a bad thing

You mean this https://paultan.org/2021/05/21/2022-ford-f-150-lightning-electric-pick-up-truck-off-to-a-thunderous-start-20000-bookings -in -12 hours/

Do you think all ICE cars should cease to exist in 2022? You'd better buy a hibernation cabin so that you can sleep and wake up in the next 50 years to see the possibility of this happening.

Hope it can also be used with AutoHold.

If it also includes adaptive cruise control following low speed, it will be welcomed.

Can't wait for it to roar on the roads of Malaysia...have been waiting since its image leaked...I just love the ranger...

Once it comes to Malaysia, I will buy a new wildtrak. The best time to replace my 2012 T6.

The front end is really tough, making others look girlish. Really nice interior.

Every time a new model appears, it becomes wider. Farm roads are usually very narrow, and when another "newer" 4×4 appeared, we had to squeeze. Sorry, it was not impressed when it said "50mm wide".

Small <Medium <Large Ranger <Maverick <F150

I think Ranger is bigger than Maverick. Ranger is a medium-sized pickup.

Hey Paultan, will it be called T9 when it arrives in Malaysia? I am confused about Ford's naming convention.

You can post as a guest, or you can choose to register. One of the benefits of registration is that once a name is registered, guests cannot post with that name. If you have an account, please log in before commenting. If you would like to put a profile photo next to your name, please register with Gravatar using the same email address you used when you posted a comment.

Copyright © 2021 Driven Communications Sdn Bhd. all rights reserved.