Ford has revealed the hotly-anticipated Ranger
midsize pickup truck at the Detroit Auto Show. Fueled by the growing demand for
midsize trucks in the US, Ford developed the new Ranger specifically for North
American customers, making it also the first time the Ranger nameplate is
offered in these parts of the world since 2011.
Based on a steel frame, the new Ford Ranger comes
with an independent front and a solid rear axle from Dana on both 2WD and 4WD
models, offering as an option an electronic-locking rear differential (standard
on FX2 and FX4 models) for better off-road traction.
Power is provided from the familiar 2.3-liter
EcoBoost engine that’s upgraded with a forged-steel crankshaft and connecting
rods, and chain-driven dual overhead cams for added durability. A 10-speed
automatic gearbox is the only option and a class-exclusive feature. Ford hasn’t
released any performance figures yet.
If off-road performance is important to you, Ford
will offer the new Ranger with the FX4 Off-Road Package which features more
capable shocks, all-terrain tires, a frame-mounted heavy-gauge steel front bash
plate and skid plates and an innovative Terrain Management system with four
different driving modes. The FX4 pack also introduces Ford’s new Trail Control
technology, which is like cruise control but designed for low speeds on rugged
terrains.
The new Ford Ranger will also offer a long list of
driver-assist and safety systems, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane
Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a Reverse Sensing System, Blind Spot
Information System with trailer coverage, Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive
Cruise Control.
Production of the all-new Ford Ranger will start
late this year at the company’s Michigan Assembly Plant, with sales set to
begin in early 2019.
