Facelifted Ford Ranger Wildtrak makes global debut, now bolder and better



Ford has globally unveiled the refreshed Ranger Wildtrak model, and the key lies in the word Wildtrak, bearing an exterior package that resonates the rugged attitude that it exudes. We’ve already seen the facelifted Ranger that was launched at the Bangkok Motor Show back in March this year.

EXTERIOR

The new Wildtrak boasts quite an array of new tech that are not typical of its segment. It is also offered with a gutsy 3.2-litre oil burner that promises to live up to the Blue Oval Company’s fun-to-drive ethos. As compared to its base-model sibling, the Wildtrak’s grille is now finished in liquid metallic grey instead of chrome, giving it a more imposing stance. The same colour accent extends to the door handles, side mirrors, side air vents, bed rails as well as the tail lamps.

2015 Ford Ranger Wildtrak (5)

Further differentiating the flagship from the regular Rangers are the new set of 18-inch wheels, rectangular front fog lamps, a unique sports hoop and bold Wildtrak graphics. Ford claims that the variant’s signature orange colour has been slightly tweaked to ‘help it stand out from the crowd’.

INTERIOR

The cabin layout remains largely the same, save for the obvious use of its signature orange colour on the seats. The driver’s side is eight-way power adjustable and incorporates the said orange colour stitching with a two-tone upholstery.

The sports truck is also equipped with a dual-TFT instrument cluster display and an eight-inch touchscreen LCD featuring SYNC2 voice-activated tech that’s housed in a soft-touch dashboard. This also comes with orange stitching that echos the upholstery fascia. A handy 240-volt power socket is also included.

PERFORMANCE

Powering this rugged pick-up is a five-cylinder 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine which makes 197 hp and 420 Nm of torque that comes with an uprated Exhaust Gas Recirculation system to improve fuel efficiency by up to 18 percent. Power is then sent onto the tarmac on all fours (or two should you fancy such) via a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Wildtrak has a towing capacity thanks to the aforementioned powertrain of an incredible 3,500kg. It also gets an upgraded suspension and its ride is now tuned for better handling and comfort. Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) is entrusted with duty of steering which promises to have more feel at varying speeds.

SAFETY

As is the trend of modern European cars, it is loaded with tech and drivers aid. That being said, it is uncommon to find such systems on a truck. The list reads as such: Lane Keeping AlertLane Keeping Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control and Front and Rear Park Assist. Keeping the truck in check under stressful driving is the ESC or Electronic Stability Control program that works in tandem with the Adaptive Load Control. Together they adjust the ESC system based on vehicle load or tow.

2015 Ford Ranger Wildtrak (3)

Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA) provides additional pressure to the brake system in an emergency to increase the braking force when you stomp on the middle pedal. If you find yourself on a slope, Hill Launch Assist, will help you start off from an incline, whether in forward or reverse. This tech is complemented with Hill Descent Control to suit all driving conditions.

WHAT ELSE?

The Ranger Wildtrak comes in its signature paint scheme called Pride Orange (they are rather proud of it). Should that tint of tangerine not tickle your fancy, the Wildtrak can be had in Cool White.


IMAGE GALLERY