MOTORING NEWS - The New Ford Ranger continues to set trends in the highly competitive light commercial vehicle (LCV) market in South Africa, and is now bolstered with the addition of nine 2.2 Duratorq TDCi models equipped with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
The Ranger is the first and only single cab pick-up on the local market available with an automatic transmission, adding unrivalled driving convenience to one of SA's top-selling vehicles.
The extended Ranger line-up makes it the most comprehensive product offering in this segment with a total of 36 models now available to suit every segment of the industry, from pure workhorse applications right through to the leisure and lifestyle market.
"The Ford Ranger has been a huge success story for Ford, not only in South Africa, but around the world," says Tracey Delate, general marketing manager, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA).
"The automatic transmission option on the Ranger 3,2 has dominated sales due to its smooth operation and ease of use, combined with the superb power and torque of the Duratorq TDCi engine.
"We are delighted to now introduce this sophisticated automatic transmission to the Ranger 2.2 TDCi, providing unparalleled comfort and driving convenience, matched to the superb performance and efficiency of Ford's latest generation Duratorq diesel engines."
In its latest form, launched in October last year as part of the extensive update to the New Ranger, the 2.2 TDCi engine produces an impressive power output of 118kW, matched to a substantial 385Nm of torque.
This ensures superb all-round performance and fuel economy, whether used for the daily urban commute, heading out onto the open road, or tackling challenging off-road terrain. Combined with impressive fuel consumption and 20 000km service intervals for the Duratorq TDCi engines, the 2.2 TDCi Auto guarantees low running costs and superb value for money.
The Ranger 2.2 Auto Single Cab models are unique in the LCV segment, as they are the only automatic derivatives available in a sector dominated by corporate and fleet sales.
Two models are available, comprising the 2.2 TDCi 4x2 XL, along with the higher specification XLS model equipped with a 4x4 drivetrain.
Three versatile Super Cab variants of the 2.2 Auto are included in the expanded model offering, starting off with the 4x2 XL, along with the XLS models in either 4x2 or 4x4 guises. The Super Cab is particularly popular with farmers, contractors as well as lifestyle-oriented buyers seeking the added convenience of the extra space behind the front seats, as well as the convenience of the rear opening doors that provide unrivalled access to the entire cabin.
DOUBLE CAB
The Ford Ranger has dominated the double cab segment since 2014, offering unparalleled comfort, space, convenience and trend-setting features. It's set to become even more popular with the addition of four new 2.2 Auto models.
Outstanding value for money is the hallmark of the Ranger 2.2 TDCi XL Double Cab Auto, which is available in both 4x2 and 4x4 variants. The 4x4 XLS model takes the features list up several notches, with the luxuriously appointed 4x2 XLT Double Cab rounding off the new Ranger 2.2 TDCi Auto line-up.
Recommended retail prices: Ranger 2.2 Auto Model Range: Ranger 2.2 TDCi single cab XL 6 a/t 4x2 - R311 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi single cab XLS 6 a/t 4x4 - R426 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi super cab XL 6 a/t 4x2 - R357 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi super cab XLS 6 a/t - 4x2 - R411 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi super cab XLS 6 a/t 4x4 - R472 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi double cab XL 6 a/t 4x2 - R384 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi double cab XL 6 a/t 4x4 - R426 900; Ranger 2.2 TDCi double cab XLS 6 a/t 4x4 - R517 900 and Ranger 2.2 TDCi double cab XLT 6 a/t 4x2 R482 900.
All models are sold with a four year or 120 000km comprehensive warranty, five year or 100 000km service plan (excluding base derivatives), three year, unlimited km roadside assistance and five year, unlimited km corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 20 000km.
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