Pick-ups have really grown in popularity during recent years, but a model that’s right at the forefront of this market is the Ford Ranger.
It’s the UK’s best-selling truck and is a hugely capable and tough choice that’s immensely useful, whether you’re looking for a working vehicle or more of a lifestyle model.
An updated version arrived in the middle of 2019 – this introducing a cleaner 2.0-litre diesel engine, along with improved technology and bolder styling.
So, if you’re looking at a new Ranger, here’s what you need to know about it…
What engines are available?
The Ranger is available with a good choice of engines, which vary depending on the body size and trim level chosen.
On the ‘Regular Cab’ model, you’re able to choose a 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with 128bhp, but this unit is only available on this two-seat model and with a manual gearbox.
Superb Cab and Double Cab variants are available with a more powerful 168bhp variant of this 2.0-litre diesel engine, which comes mated to a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic gearbox. With a manual, it’s the most efficient engine option in the line-up – returning up 40.9mpg, with CO2 emissions of 188g/km.
The newly introduced engine is a 210bhp 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, which is the most powerful engine in the line-up, and it can get the Ranger from 0-60mph in 8.8 seconds, which is rather quick for a pick-up.
A larger 3.2-litre diesel option is available, too, which produces 197bhp, but is both slower and less efficient than the aforementioned 2.0-litre engine, and also not as powerful.
What trim levels are available?
With six trims available on the Ranger, there is plenty to choose from. Equipment highlight and pricing are as follows. Note that all prices exclude VAT.
XL – from £22,811.36
This is the most utilitarian model, though you still get quite a lot of kit as standard. Highlights include a heated windscreen, cruise control, DAB radio, Bluetooth and air-conditioning. It also comes with traffic sign recognition and lane-keep assist on the safety front. It’s worth noting this is the only version you can have as a two-seat ‘Regular Cab’.
XLT – from £25,711.36
Upgrade to the XLT to get 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers, electrically folding mirrors and additional chrome styling. It also gains front fog lights, a leather steering wheel and auto-dimming rear-view mirror.
Limited – from £29,836.36
Popular Limited models bring quite a lot of extra kit – including larger 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather interior, keyless start and entry and an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring. It also adds a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and bi-Xenon headlights.
Wildrak – from £32,086.36
If you want a more stylish Ranger, the Wildtrak is a great choice. This adds large 18-inch alloy wheels, plastic moulded side steps, a sports hoop, aluminium roof bars and satellite navigation.
Thunder special edition – from £32,965
For 2020, Ford has introduced a new limited-edition ‘Thunder’ model. This model comes painted in Sea Grey paint, and also features contrasting red accents on both the exterior and interior. Darkened LED headlights also feature alongside cool 3D logos, while this trim is just available with the 210bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine.
Raptor – from £41,261.36
At the top of the line-up is the Raptor, which is designed to be the toughest pick-up available. It features a whole host of performance tweaks – including expensive Fox shock absorbers, front and rear ventilated disc brakes and tougher underbody protection. Styling changes also include 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, a new front grille and revised bumpers. Jump inside and you’ll find a unique perforated leather steering wheel, suede upholstery and additional drive modes.
What about personalisation?
The sheer choice available on the Ranger means it’s easy to find one that’s personalised to you. With three body types on offer (the Double Cab being the most popular), as well as a variety of trims – including everything from basic and dependable XL models through to the hugely capable Raptor – there’s no shortage of choice.
The colour palette is also quite varied, with certain grades exclusive to some trims. The bright Sabre Orange is only found on the Wildtrak, while Ford Performance Blue is a great choice if you’re wanting a Raptor.
The option choice isn’t overly extensive, but the Ranger is available with the most safety kit of any pick-up. Adaptive cruise control, a head-up display and self-parking function are just some of the features on offer. A variety of options are available for the load area compartment, too.