As the car makes its world debut at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, Ford released details of the all-new Ranger for 2011. With its new dynamic style, powertrain and equipments, the 2011 Ranger wants to set new standards in this segment. And for that, it gets a Dagenham-built 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I4 diesel engine with peak torque of 375Nm and power output of 110kW (150PS).
The other choice is an efficient new 3.2-litre, Ford Duratorq TDCi I5 diesel engine with a powerful 470Nm of torque and power rated at 147kW (200PS).
The all-new Ranger four-wheel drive models are equipped with a well-proven electronically controlled transfer case that allows drivers to shift from 4×2 to 4×4 anytime via an electronic switch conveniently located on the console. If extra torque or additional downhill braking is needed, low range gearing can also be enabled.
The new Ranger is also carefully engineered to take on rough terrains, with ground clearance of up to 232mm and driveline components that have been strategically mounted above the frame rail. Despite an increased 3,220mm wheelbase and wider track 1,560mm for the 4×4 model, and 1,590mm (front and rear) for the 4×2 model – the all-new Ranger’s turning circle makes it easily manoeuvrable in parking and on narrow city streets.
The suspension too is set up for hard tasks, yet providing smooth, firm but comfortable ride, with a rear leaf suspension design that has been carefully tuned for a variety of road conditions while still delivering outstanding payload capacity. This also gives Ranger a firmly planted ride for high-speed driving on dirt roads with reduced sway and less vehicle “skate” on corrugated or rough surfaces.
The Ranger will have as standard Ford’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system that includes four-wheel traction control, yaw control and roll-over mitigation.
That’s enough technicality, real pickup users want to know what’s the payload! The cargo box of the new Double Cab is more than 100mm wider than before – 1,549mm long by 511mm high and with a maximum cargo width of 1,560mm. Volume is an impressive 1.21 cubic metres.
Width between the wheel arches is 1,139mm on all models and special provisions are provided in the cargo box to place struts of lumber in pockets that are located above the wheel arch. This allows plywood or sheet rock to be stacked flat. Width at the rear tailgate opening, at the top of the box, is 1,330mm.
As for the safety, all-new Ford Ranger offers new passive safety technologies, including the availability of side curtain airbags on all cab styles for the first time. Other new Ranger technologies include Rear Park Assist and new Rearview Camera system.
