Redesigned Ford Ranger debuts with tougher look, bigger footprint

Ford unveiled its new Ranger mid-size pickup truck Wednesday.

Although the unveiled version was designed for international markets, the design and specifications should be comparable to U.S.-spec Rangers that will land in dealerships by 2022 or 2023.

Although the current Ranger was introduced only in the U.S. to celebrate the model year 2019, it has been available elsewhere for much of the past decade. This is why the new Ranger has been introduced so rapidly.

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

An updated version of Ranger’s existing T6 body on-frame platform powers the new Ranger. With an increase in track width and a broader wheelbase, the updated platform made its debut at the Bronco. The wheelbase was extended by two inches, and the wheels in front were moved forward about 2 inches. This allowed for better wheel alignment and improved approach angles. A move to enhance ride comfort was also made by moving the rear suspension dampers outboard from the frame rails.

Ford has yet to announce any electrified powertrains, but the updated platform supports hybrid technology. According to Ford, the updated platform has a front-end that creates more room in the engine bay. This allows V-6 engines for fitting. Ford offered a range of inline-4 diesel engines for the Ranger global, as well as a 3.0-liter diesel V-6.

Due to the Bronco’s close relationship, the U.S. Ranger will likely have the same powertrains that its SUV sibling. The Bronco has a 2.3-liter turbocharged Inline-4 and a 2.7-liter twinturbocharged 6-liter V-6. At some point, a plug-in hybrid configuration is planned for both the Bronco and Ranger. There are two speed options for the Bronco: a manual (7-speed) or a 10-10-speed auto (10-speed), and it is possible that this will be available for the Ranger as well.

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

All three types of Ranger bodies, Super Cab, Crew Cab, and Single are planned, but it isn’t known which will be available in the U.S.

The U.S. Ranger Raptor will come equipped with a twin turbocharged V-6 rated around 400 hp. Fox shocks should be available, along with BF Goodrich AllTerrain T/A KO2 tyres. Bronco Raptors have also been confirmed to make their debut in 2022.

Interior design has become more sophisticated than ever thanks to the portrait-style touchscreen (11/12 inches) and central stack. Ford’s SYNC4 informationtainment software is running on it. The vehicle also features a surround-view camera and other driver-assist functions. More details will be revealed closer to market launch.

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

New Ford Ranger (Global model)

Plants in Thailand, South Africa and South Africa are responsible for the production of global Ranger. Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan will handle Ranger production. Here are the Bronco, Ranger, and current Ranger models.

A redesigned Volkswagen Amarok is also based on the new Ranger. In 2022, the VW will also be unveiled. Although it is not expected that the VW will be sold in America, both Ford and VW are open to this possibility.

You can read in-depth reviews about the Ford Ranger at Car Connection.

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Author: Brandon Park