#22 Ford Ranger Wildtrak – A best all-round pick-up contender

They say that in the event of Armageddon, the only thing to survive will be cockroaches. Well, there's a good chance you'd see some Ford Rangers cruising around, too. This is because the Ford Ranger is one of the toughest and most dependable pick-ups in the market. Recent updates especially in the current range have brought about car like comforts in the interior. However, the ruggedness and dependability still remains unchanged.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak 

The most exclusive model in the Ford Ranger array is the Wildtrak. This version of the Ford Ranger brings added style and exclusivity to the already popular pick-up line-up. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak boasts an extensive range of class-leading “smart” features that make it easier, safer, and more fun to drive than ever before. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak also incorporates a unique rear view camera system. The camera image is displayed in the rear view mirror - which dramatically improves rear visibility when reversing the pick-up.

Ford Ranger's different model choices 

Design

Toned, taut, and muscular, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak is designed to look powerful and confident, equally at home on a construction site or outside a high-class restaurant. The pick-up’s front end features a short overhang with the signature three-bar grille, a global Ford commercial vehicle design cue. The windscreen is raked back for a sportier and more dynamic silhouette. This creates a modern and aerodynamic look. The beltline, along with the rails of the load box, are raised significantly - giving Ford Ranger Wildtrak a substantive presence on the road while increasing its functionality with the deeper box.

Side view 

Large headlamps, big mirrors, and stamped-in wheel arches contribute to the Ford Ranger Wildtrak’s aggressive and sporty stance. Unique range of colour choices, Wildtrak badges and graphics help differentiates the double-cab pick-up further from other Ford Rangers. The same accent colours are used on the side mirrors, door handles and side air vents to give the pick-up a sporty look. Sitting high on 18-inch alloy wheels, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak also comes with a roof rack and a sports hoop which enhance its profile.

Capable off-road 

Power

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak’s 3.0-litre engine employs advanced turbo technology, intercooler, and variable-geometry turbo charging, to reduce turbo lag and improve overall performance. Plenty of available torque from Ford's TDCi Duratorq diesel makes it highly responsive to the driver's needs and gives the Ford Ranger Wildtrak plenty of grunt. The 115 kW (154 hp) 3.0-litre engine delivers 380 Nm of torque at 1800rpm. At 3000rpm, the Ranger's 3.0-litre TDCi diesel proves its flexibility in delivering more than 350 Nm. Mated to the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed manual transmission, with its short car-like shifter, provides crisp and precise shifting. An up shift indicator in the instrument panel coaches drivers on the best gearing for optimum fuel economy.

Distinct interior decor 

Dynamics

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak has car-like comfort, reduced steering effort, more precise handling, and better on-road stability. This is as a result of the all-new chassis frame, front and rear suspension set up plus a new steering system. Even on narrow city streets, the pick-up's tight turning circle makes it easily manoeuvrable despite sitting on a long wheelbase. For those who need a dependable pick-up for off-road adventures, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak fits the bill perfectly with a stiffer frame, ground clearance, of up to 230 mm, and driveline components strategically mounted above the frame rail. Both automatic and manual four-wheel drive models are equipped with a proven electronically controlled transfer case, which allows drivers to shift on the move from 4x2 to 4x4. The driver does this via a switch conveniently located on the centre console.

Cockpit 

Cabin

The purposeful interior of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak echoes the sporty look of the outside. The seat trim, a combination of leather and woven cloth with ventilated sections, provides lateral support and confidence even on rough terrain. Contrast stitching and a discreet strip on the seat upper and bolster, all in distinctive Wildtrak Orange, accentuate the premium feel of the interior. The cabin of Ford Ranger Wildtrak has been stretched to provide segment-leading spaciousness and comfort. Three passengers can easily fit in the second row of the pick-up.

Ample room for five 

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak offers ample knee room and better foot clearance between the B-pillar and the seat. This makes it easier for rear-seat passengers to get in and out of the pick-up. With 23 storage spaces in the cabin, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak offers plenty practical stowage. A deep centre console bin chills up to six cans of beverage, while the glove box is large enough to accommodate a 16-inch laptop. Ample storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak comes with Bluetooth audio streaming, USB and iPod connectivity.

Wildtrak's rear 

Verdict

Ford has done a splendid job with the Ranger Wildtrak. The pickup is a class-leading machine that has the capabilities to challenge most of its rivals, on pick-up segment. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak beats most of its rivals on credentials such as carrying, towing, and family comfort.