Ford Ranger launched internationally 2015
New bumper, grille, lights?
A lot more than that. The new 2015 Ford Ranger looks more like the American F150 than a typical South African workhorse. To say it’s bold and aggressive is an understatement. “When we set out to improve upon the Ford Ranger, we knew we had our work cut out for us: The current Ranger is one of the toughest, most capable trucks out there,” said Richard Tilley, vehicle line director, Ford Asia Pacific. “But thanks to our proud truck heritage and global expertise in the utility segment, we’ve made what was great even better, with a bold new look, improved efficiency and a new level of refinement.”
The Ford Ranger emphasis toughness. On the outside it’s more Truck than Bakkie but more car than Bakkie on the inside.
What’s significant?
Those intimidating looks mean it’s well-equipped for off-road driving; 800mm wading depth, 28-deg approach angle, electronic locking differential, hill descent control and 3500kg payload capacity. In the city the Ford Ranger copes just as well. SYNC 2 connectivity works through an 8-inch touchscreen and has been designed to respond to voice control. Commands for climate, entertainment and navigation follow natural phrases. Besides that, Ford Ranger offers Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Rear Parking Sensors. We won’t get too involved in the engines because those are market specific but we can confirm that they’re all cleaner and more frugal to the tune of 20 per cent.
Early Verdict.
The Ford Ranger is the company’s best-selling ‘car.’ The entire brand lives and breathes through its success. In short, expect the company to move the segment on significantly with the new Ranger and leave nothing to chance. Technology aside, we think the 2015 Ford Ranger will continue its steady market penetration based purely on looks – so far every other bakkie we’ve seen looks ashamedly timid. The Ford Ranger will arrive in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2015.
