What are the most important statistics for the engine and transmission?
The new 3.0 liter V6 turbo-diesel has a track record of reliable service in several Ford model variants. These include the Ford F-150 pickup truck, the Territory SUV (with a lesser displacement), and even several Land Rover/Range Rover models produced when owned by Ford.
As a result of its extensive experience, it provides unmatched standards of performance and refinement. It establishes a new standard for this category when configured as a Ranger, producing 184kW at 3250 rpm and a towering 600Nm of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm.
It is coupled with Ford’s 10R80 10-speed torque convertor automatic transmission, which features sequential manual shifting, four drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Slippery, and a new Tow/Haul mode, in addition to sequential manual shifting. The new full-time mode for the part-time, dual-range 4×4 system in V6 form is labeled 4A on the console dial and automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed – perfect for slippery or snow-covered roads. There is a rear differential lock as well.
Fuel usage – How much fuel does it use?
After our 304km of testing, which included city, suburban, and highway driving with almost a third of that distance traveling at its maximum weight, Ford claims a combined average of 8.4L/100km, which is over 2.0L lower than the 10.3L showed on the dash display.
Our personal estimate, based on gasoline bowser and tripmeter readings and with the engine stop/start feature turned off, was even higher at 11.8L/100km, which is comparable to the 3.0-liter V6 in the Amarok. According to our “real world” calculations, the 80-liter tank should provide a driving range of roughly 680 kilometers.
Practicality: How usable is the interior space?
The V6 XLT has a kerb weight of 2285 kg, which, when subtracted from its 3280 kg GVM, yields a payload capacity of 995 kg. In our opinion, that comes near enough to becoming a true “one tonner.”
The maximum payload would need to be decreased to 615 kg (a decrease of 380 kg) in order for it to be legally able to tow the class-average weight of 3500 kg of braked trailer with its 6400 kg GCM (how much it can legally carry and tow at the same time). Alternately, you might preserve the full payload rating and reduce the trailer weight by the same amount to 3120kg. In either case, they are sizable and practical quantities for a variety of professional and recreational demands.
The floor of the load tub measures 1547mm long by 1584mm broad, with a rear opening of 1413mm. The distance between the wheel housings has increased to 1224mm as a result of the new Ranger’s wider track. This outperforms its predecessor by being able to transport either a regular Aussie pallet measuring 1165 mm square or a 1200 x 800 mm Euro pallet while being supported by six load anchorage points.
Additionally, the side walls of the vehicle have convenient internal lighting, and the tailgate may be used as a portable workstation thanks to two spring-loaded “trapdoors” and an integrated 1.3-meter ruler. The ruler, however, has to be manufactured out of a more durable material than plastic, as many increments on the one installed in our nearly-new test vehicle had already been lost due to prior loading’s bumps and scrapes.
Large and tiny bottle holders, an overhead glasses holder, one glovebox, and a narrow storage shelf begins the list of cabin storage options in each front door. The center console contains cup and drink compartments in the middle, flat-pad storage for a phone at the front (but no wireless charging), and a box with a padded cover that serves as an elbow rest at the back.
Rear seat passengers receive flexible pouches on each front seat backrest, large and small bottle containers, shorter bins at the base of each door, and a fold-down center armrest with two cupholders. If more internal cargo space is needed, the base cushion of the back seat, which rises up to reveal two underfloor storage bins, can also be kept in a vertical position.
What’s it like to drive a car every day?
Entry-assist handles are located on both the A and B pillars, and the eight-way adjustable driver’s seat, height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel, and large left footrest make it simple to achieve a comfortable driving position.
It drives more like a vehicle than ever before, is extremely quiet, and has excellent all-terrain ride quality when empty. The previous generation’s sure-footed sensation is improved by the longer wheelbase and wider track, which exhibits little body roll during turns. Even if it does become noticeably heavier in the new full-time 4×4 mode, the steering weight and reaction are undoubtedly the greatest in the industry. Over uneven roads, the suspension is remarkably supple while still providing a controlled ride.