Ford has taken a huge step forward with the all-new Ranger. It’s larger and beefier — much more American-style — than the earlier models, and is equipped with a new 2.5-litre common rail TDCi engine under the (hood ~ bonnet}. Ford Ranger is offered in three distinct specifications — Regular, Super and Double Cab — and all bar the latter have a choice of two- or four-wheel drive. The Double Cab can only be had with 4WD and there’s a Tipper model of the Regular Cab 4×4.

Apart of version, the engine is the same and generates maximum power of 143horse power , but more outstandingly it is capable of developing peak torque of 330Nm at 1,800rpm. It is smooth and responsive, and is well isolated from the cabin .

Servicing is required every 12,500 miles. The steering is power assisted, of course, and all Rangers have ABS as standard. Regular Cab is Ford-speak for Single Cab (two doors, two seats), Super Cab has two full size doors and two rear-hinged half doors (occasional rear seating for two) and Double Cab is a full blown four-door with accommodation for 5 . Carrying capacity width and height are the similar for all variations — 1,456mm and 457mm — but length varies. It is 2,280mm for the Regular, 1,753mm for Super and 1,530mm on the Double. Gross payload varies from 1,175kg (DC) to 1,235kg for the Regular 4×4. The cab is very car-like with a good driving position and adequate storage facilities, but the handbrake lever is an ergonomic failure; it sticks out of the facia rather than being in between the seats where it should be.

CONCLUSION

The belligerent face styling may not be to everyone’s flavor , but the engine is a cracker, performing well beyond its on-paper specification.

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