NEW 4X4S
Off-road spec at the fore for latest additions to Ranger line-up FORD HAS UNVEILED ANOTHER TWO VERSIONS OF THE NEW RANGER – with off-roading at the heart of their specification. The Wildtrak X and Tremor models, which feature long-travel Bilstein suspension, are available to order now with initial deliveries expected in August. The Wildtrak X is based on the Wildtrak, obviously enough, putting it towards the top of the Ranger price list as a premium model for lifestyle customers. However the Tremor is based on the more modestly specced XLT – making it potentially the ideal model for people who want to make the most of its ability. In each case, longer-travel springs give the vehicles a 26mm increase in suspension ride height. This is compensated for by a 30mm wider track to maintain stability on and off-road. Damping is by heavy-duty position-sensitive Bilstein units which Ford says will enhance offroad ability without compromising on-road performance. On top of this, the trucks are equipped with an uprated heavy-duty power steering system – which is protected by a heavy-duty steel bash plate. As well as boasting enhanced hardware, the Rangers are also specced with additional high-tech features designed to enhance their performance off-road. Trail Turn Assist uses brake-based torque vectoring to reduce turning radius by up to 25% in tight corners, while Trail Control maintains a selected crawl speed of up to 20mph by automatically managing acceleration and braking. Both these features have
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previously appeared elsewhere in the off-road market, but Ford is bringing them to the pick-up sector for the first time with these versions of the Ranger. Further spec on the XLT-based Ranger Tremor includes extended wheelarch mouldings, cast aluminium side steps, exposed twin front tow hooks and a tubular sports bar. Inside, the seats and floor feature water-resistant vinyl trim for easy cleaning, while an optional prewired switch pack in an overhead console has six inputs for equipment like winches and LED bars. The Wildtrak X also has extended wheelarches to cover its wider track. Extensive use of black exterior styling adds to the purpose inherent
in its higher, wider stance, and optional matrix LED headlamps are available alongside auxiliary lamps mounted in the grille. In the cabin, the seats are trimmed in Miko and Terra suede with contrast stitching and embroidered badges, and the infotainment system comes with FordPass 6 connectivity and Ford Pro owner services. Both these versions of the Ranger are equipped with 2.0-litre diesel engines. In the Tremor, this develops 170bhp and 299lbf.ft; being based on the XLT, it ought to have a sixspeed manual gearbox, however Ford’s photos show it with an auto
shifter so this would appear to be available whether as a standard or optional feature. In the Wildtrak X, anyway, the box is definitely a 10-speed auto and the figures increase to 205bhp and 369lbf.ft. Prices for the new models are yet to be announced, however the XLT starts at £27,350 plus VAT and the Wildtrak at £35,875. If you like the sound of the Raptor (and you should) but need a more cost-conscious Ranger, not to mention one that qualifies as a commercial vehicle, this added focus on the vehicle’s off-road capability will be very welcome.
4x4 11/04/2023 16:52
