Ford has a commendable presence in pickup truck segment worldwide and its models like F150 Raptor and Ranger sell in good numbers despite a rise of rivals from Toyota and Ram. The Ranger, a midsize pickup truck is the successor of the legendary Ford F-100. It is sold in numerous markets barring the USA and Canada. To take on the rivals better, Ford has equipped the 2017 Ranger with a number of updates. It is aimed particularly to topple the arch rival, Toyota Hilux.
The Ford Ranger 2017 comes with enhancements. However those changes are not related to exterior styling. The new safety features comes as standard in entry level trims. The top trims are now equipped with better infotainment options. The engines do not get an upgrade in terms of power, but they are more refined now and meet Euro 5 norms.
Ford Ranger 2017 – Features Design and Technology:
The Ford Ranger 2017 will not get revised design. Also, it retains the boxy build with a blend of curves. The hexagonal grille is enticing as is the wraparound headlamps. It will come in three body styles- Single cab, super cab, and double cab. Two new body colors are Meteor Grey and Jet black. There are 4 trims- XL, XLT, XLS and top end Wildtrak. XLT gets black fog light surrounds. The cabin is sleek and refined. It is quite spacious as well.
It is in technology and infotainment segments that the 2017 Rangers gets a maximum number of enhancements. The entry level XL is equipped with parking sensors and a reversing camera. The same is the case with XLT trim. Both XLT and top end Wildtrak trim gets the newest SYNC3 multimedia system, with support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Wildtrak trim gains the most safety features than any other pickup truck in this segment. It has now adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam, automatic lane keeping and lane departure warning.
Ford Ranger 2017 – Engine Output:
The Ford Ranger 2017 gets 2.2-liter and 3.2-liter TDCi diesel engines. They generate a torque of 385 and 470 nm respectively. The output is same as the units used in the truck’s 2016 version but the new units meet Euro 5 emission norms. The engines can be mated with either manual or automatic transmissions.
Maximum rated towing capacity is 3500 kgs. The payload varies on a build and maximum capacity is 1450 kg.
Ford Ranger 2017 – Pricing and Availability
The 2017 Ford Ranger will go on sale late in 2016. Ford has not said anything on a pricing of individual Ranger trims for 2017 yet. The industry sources indicate base XL trim may have a price tag of about $23,000, while Wildtrak may cost $38,500 or so.
Overall, Ford Ranger 2017 comes across as a worthy mid-range pickup truck that gets most things right. The styling remains same but that is not necessarily a bad thing. The inclusion of safety features in basic trims is a practical move. Also, top end trims get better entertainment features and both engines receive refinements too. With right pricing, it may overtake the Toyota Hilux eventually.