There’s no denying the fact that the Ford Ranger is one of the most popular bakkies out now, it was also voted the best double cab in the last 4 years by Car Mag. This mean machine has set a new standard for 4×4’s, combining both luxury and strength. We recently had the opportunity of test driving the WildTrak 3.2 TDCi automatic version to find out if it’s just as good as the models that preceded it:
By: Moeketsi Letsohla
1.The engine
This Wildtrak comes with a 3.2TDCi diesel engine, empowered with a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox. It is a 4×2 wheel car, with a permanent 4Motion system to make it a 4×4. The engine produces extreme power of 147kW at the maximum torque of 470Nm, and has a maximum towing capacity of 3.2 tons. It can travel 100km with just 8.9ℓ of fuel, and has a tank capacity of 80ℓ.
2. Exterior
It comes with electrically operated and foldable mirrors, with an integrated turn signal. It sports a same body colour front bumper, and an integrated climb-on step on the rear one. The loading bin has a lockable cover.
3. Interior
It’s interior is stylish and leather-trimmed. The double cab has a height- adjustable driver’s seat and a standard armrest in the middle. It’s multifunction steering wheel is covered in leather, and the height and depth can also be adjustable. All windows are electrically controlled, equipped with the express up and down function.
The rear view mirror is anti-dazzle. This car has a manual air conditioner and cup holders for all passengers.
4. Entertainment
The Wildtrak has an on-board computer with a standard Ford system. It has six speakers, a CD player, Aux, MP3, Bluetooth,
SD Card with an eight-inch colour touch screen and USB Port. Some of these controls are on the steering wheel.
5. Safety, security and comfort
It comes with the Electronic Stability Programme that includes the Hill Start/ Descent Assist control, traction control to keep the vehicle on track, adaptive load and trailer sway controls, driver and front passenger airbags and an anti-lock braking system. It also has a rear view parking assist camera and cruise control. This motor car has a Lane Keeping Alert and Assist system to warn you when the car goes off the lane, and assist in bringing it back. It also has a Driver Impairment Monitor to alert you when it drifts off course. The Forward Alert function warns you when you drive too close to the car in front, and reduces the speed. True to its name, it drives well off the road. It also comes with daytime running lights, intermitted wipers and a rain sensor.
6. Warranty and service
This car comes with a four- year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, a five-year/100 000km service plan, 20 000km service intervals, three-year/unlimited kilometres roadside assistance, as well as a five- year/unlimited kilometres anti-corrosion warranty. All Ford 4×4 vehicles are sold with a free training course.
7. Price
This Ford Ranger costs R596 900, including VAT.
