Exclusive debut for Ford Ranger

In a worldwide debut during the recent Australian International Motor Show, Ford launched its new Ranger pickup to a crowd of local and international media on Sydney's Cockatoo Island.  

Fisho went along for a sneak preview of the latest model from the American car giant, which will be sold globally to over 180 markets around the world. While the Ranger has been in production for nearly 20 years, Ford promises the all-new model will surpass its predecessors in performance, features and design, while keeping the Ranger's tradition of superior toughness.

Fishos looking at towing large boats or planning to get off the beaten track will find a host of suitable features in the new mid-range truck.

Built from the ground up, the brand new Ranger introduces three new engines: First up is the 2.2 litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I4 diesel engine with peak torque output of 375 Nm and powr output of 110kW; also available is a 3.2 litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I5 diesel with a powerful 470 Nm of torque and power rated at 147 kW; finally Ford offers a 2.5 litre Duratorq I4 petrol engine with 122 kW. The petrol engine can also be configured for E100 flexible fuel capacity or after market up fitted to run on CNG or LPG.

Although Ford is yet to release the exact towing capacity, the company has said it will exceed the current model's 3-tonne tow weight on its 3 litre 5-speed manual diesel. The Ranger also features an impressive payload capacity of up to 1500 kilograms.

Other features of interest include a 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission designed for both 4x2 and 4x4 diesel models, and a MT82 six-speed maual transmission with a short, car-like shifter. The 2.5litre petrol engine comes standard with a Ford MT75 five-speed manual transmission.

The 4x4 models feature a electronically controlled transfer case that allows for shifts between 4x2 and 4x4 anytime via an electric switch on the console. Low range gearing is also available for extra torque or downhill braking.

Other features include largest in class brakes, and an abundant 230 millimetres of ground clearance on the 4x4 and and 4x2 Hi-Riders, with 16 inch tyres.

Ford's new Ranger is fitted with a 80-litre fuel tank and is expected to offer superior fuel economy.

Stay tuned for more information about Ford's new Ranger as more specs are released and production commences in 2011.

For more info visit: www.ford.com.au/ranger