Ranger finally also gets single and supercab models | Rhewal

By Martin Pretorius

Ford’s new Ranger was initially made available only as a double cab. Ford has now added a total of 10 single-cab and super-cab models to the range, extending buyers’ choice in the Ranger range to 24 different variants.

The single-cab range consists of four models, all equipped with the XL specification level and with the same 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel engine producing 125kW and 405Nm. Buyers can choose between automatic or manual transmissions, both six-speed, and 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains are available with both transmissions. Entry-level supercab models are also offered in XL specification, and offer most of the single-cab’s powertrains, except that the 4×4 version is exclusively automatic.

However, the supercab body shape also offers two better equipped models. In this guise, the more luxurious XLT is available with the single turbo engine, 6-speed automatic gearbox and 4×2 drive system, as well as a 4×4 with the 2.0 liter twin-turbo diesel and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. The twin turbo diesel and 4×4 system is also the only choice in the new Wildtrak supercab, offering 154 kW and 500 Nm in both models.

We spent mostly time with the automatic XL‑supercab model during the three-day launch drive, where the combination of its smooth transmission and wide spread of torque from the single-turbo engine was impressive. The performance feels a lot livelier than the numbers would lead you to expect, and it’s also surprisingly eager to jump out of the blocks.

Overtaking acceleration is perfectly adequate with the lightest engine, and it’s easy to see how an XL would be more than quick enough for most buyers. It’s also surprisingly economical, and most owners should average less than 8.5 ℓ/100 km.

However, the twin-turbo‑XLT is in a completely different league, and its performance advantage is clear under all conditions. As we’ve mentioned in previous reports, the 10-speed automatic transmission’s new programming makes for a big improvement compared to its predecessor, and it’s very alert when an overtaking opportunity comes up. One might wonder why the Wildtrak doesn’t boast the turbodiesel V6 like its double-cab sibling, but the mechanically identical XLT’s willing performance suggests that the bigger engine isn’t really necessary.

Ride comfort is also above average for vans in this class, and the finesse with which they handle dirt roads is first class. On tarmac there are still slight vibrations through the steering wheel and seats, but that’s a characteristic of this type of bakkie and can’t be held against the Ranger. Road holding is also good for a bakkie, and the steering system gives enough feedback from the road surface without becoming distracting. Cabin noise is well dampened, and even the Ranger XL provides a comfortable, calm environment to cover long distances.

However, there is one area where the XL and XLT aren’t quite as well rounded as the Wildtrak (or Raptor), and that’s in their cabins. The luxury Wildtrak uses soft plastic on its instrument panel and door panels, while the XL and XLT have hard plastic everywhere. There’s no rattle from the plastic panels in the lower-spec models, but the initial sense of quality disappears as soon as you touch the door panel, center console or steering column.

This effect emerges because the only soft surfaces in the two lower-level models are the armrests and seats, which is slightly disappointing in vehicles with entry-level prices close to half a million rand. The XL’s plastic steering wheel frame also feels gross, but the XLT’s leather-covered steering wheel at least gives a much more satisfying sensation through the fingers. This means that the lower level Rangers actually feel cheaper in their cabins than you would expect, especially since they are otherwise so civilized.

Apart from their subjectively lower class cabin trim, there is little to criticize about the new single and supercab Rangers. The two engine options are both really impressive, they have enough standard equipment to satisfy most buyers’ needs, and their prices compare well with their competition. A warranty for four years or 120,000 km should give enough peace of mind to business people, and optional service or maintenance plans for up to eight years or 165,000 km will also attract private buyers.

The single cab range looks like this:

The super cabin range looks like this: