Ranger moves up a level

The Ford Ranger model line-up has received a boost for 2018 … one such model is the limited-edition Ford Ranger Fx4; which brings a touch more exclusivity to the discerning owner.

Since its launch in 2015, the latest Ford Ranger has held the hallmarks of outstanding performance, a bold design, superb comfort and segment-defining technologies. It is little wonder that the Ranger is continually one of South Africa’s best-selling light commercial vehicles.

For 2018, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has introduced a raft of enhancements and product updates to the Ranger. Bolstering the eight-inch integrated SYNC3 with Navigation infotainment system, Front Park Assist is now fitted as standard on all Ranger XLT models. The front-mounted sensors complement the existing Rear Park Assist with rear-view camera, thus providing improved visibility and safety when manoeuvring the vehicle in tight spaces

“With the latest enhancements introduced for the 2018 model year, we are delighted to offer our customers even greater value for money, driving convenience and safety, as well as trend-setting style,” says Tracey Delate, general manager, marketing – Ford Motor Company sub-Saharan Africa Region.

However, there are always those who seek something a bit more special, and so Ford launched the limited-edition Ranger Fx4 in 2017; based on the popular 3,2-litre XLT Double Cab 4×4. Its popularity has been such that the Fx4 can now be had (in still limited quantities) with the smaller 2,2-litre engine and either manual or automatic transmission.

The Fx4 badge is derived from the all-conquering Ford F-Series pickups in the United States, and reinforces the “Built Ford Tough” DNA that defines the Ford Ranger. Visually, this is enhanced by the attention-grabbing array of trend-setting styling enhancements.

“The Ranger Fx4 fills a unique space in our current line-up as it offers our valued Ranger customers a vehicle that has been personalised as part of our standard manufacturing process, but introduces an entirely new level of exclusivity and appeal,” says Delate.

The personalisation of the Ranger Fx4 incorporates numerous distinctive styling changes, including attractive black finishes for the radiator grille, fog lamp bezels, exterior mirrors, roof rails, as well as the door and tailgate handles.

The 17-inch alloy wheels are supplied in an eye-catching Panther Black finish. The same colour is adopted for the side steps, rear bumper and special Fx4 tubular sports bar located in the load bay – the latter is protected by a fitted bed liner.

For the first time, the Ranger will also be available with a spray-in bed liner direct from the factory as an added-cost option. As a Genuine Ford Accessory, the polyurea-based two-component material is fully tested and approved to provide aesthetically pleasing, yet rugged, durability and anti-slip protection for the loadbed.

To round off the design, unique Fx4 decals are applied on the sides and rear tailgate. To enhance the effect of these striking upgrades, the Ranger Fx4 is exclusively available with four colour choices: Frozen White, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey and Panther Black.

“This is an exciting, special addition to the Ranger line-up that has its own distinct personality and was designed to be unique in a cluttered marketplace,” says Delate. “There’s a strong demand for accessorising and customising the standard Ranger among enthusiast customers, and the Ranger Fx4 fills that niche superbly, while maintaining the exceptional capabilities of the XLT model.”