New Ford Ranger TDCi 4X4
Well, the much-anticipated new 2.5-litre Ford Ranger TDCi 4X4 has finally arrived onto our shores. With the introduction of this model, I’m sure, Ford is hoping to fight lost ground against it’s rivals such as the Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux.
Focusing on Ranger’s fight back is their all new 2.5-litre, DuraTORQ TDCi common-rail diesel engine. The engine which stands true to its name has an inbuilt twin-cam with 16-valve four-cylinder capabilities offering a class-leading output of 141bhp and 330Nm (toppling Mitsubishi Triton’s 134bhp/314Nm), helping it deliver a 22 per cent better fuel efficiency compared to their previous engine.
The new Ford Ranger has been fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission - the first ever truck to have that extra ratio when needed (there is also a five-speed manual available) All these added-up should give the Ranger the edge in fuel economy, by it’s closer gear ratios and taller final drive. Ford has thus far included a Borg Warner transfer case into their five-speed automatic, where switching between 2WD and 4WD modes is electronically controlled now, executed via a dial (remember, it’s only available in their auto version) at any given speed falling below 100km/h mark.
Design-wise the Ford Ranger’s wheelbase remains unchanged, but it has an entirely new ladder frame with a reworked suspension system. Another plus-point is their large-diameter dampers (32mm) which can be found on their double-wishbone front suspension. Improvisation’s have been done on their rear leaf springs where they’ve been lengthened, and they also feature a linear rate, two-stage system for an increased sense of comfort when the 4X4 isn’t fully laden.
Looking deeper into it’s specifications you would also notice that the Ranger is equipped with a torque-sensing, mechanical limited slip differential, this helping to optimise traction.
Ford loves their “Tough Truck DNA” image, and this has resulted them compromising on their styling which at the end has turned out to be less adventurous than what was hinted earlier by the 4Trac concept which previewed back in 2005. It won’t come as a surprise if you would mistake the gaping vertical grille and power dome on the hood of the new Ranger with their old model. But thankfully, It’s a totally different story on the inside however, and the new Ranger 4X4 has received a rather complete makeover to keep pace with the contemporary, car-like cabins of its competitors, with improved built quality. This is definitely a thumbs-up for Ford.
Safety and security equipment are quite comprehensive, as with the previous generation Ranger. Other features available on this mean machine, ranging from ABS with EBD, front airbags, side impact beams, seat belt pretensioners, Ford’s passive anti-theft system and immobiliser are all standard fit. Price for the manual version stands at RM85,388 and while the automatic is priced at RM90,288 (Both price’s do not include Motor Insurance)
