By Steve & Tamami Laser
While Ford dropped the Ranger from its U.S. lineup several years ago, it’s still going strong in other markets where a more modern version is sold. For the 2019 model year Ford is bringing the Ranger back to its North American lineup.
Ford says the new Ranger, planned to be built starting later this year at its Michigan Assembly Plant, features new exterior styling, plus chassis and powertrain developed for the North American market. Riding on a high-strength steel frame, the 2019 Ranger will be equipped with Ford’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine teamed with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Trim levels include the work-truck style XL, the midrange XLT, and the more upscale Lariat. Chrome, Sport and FX Off-Road packages are planned and so are SuperCab and SuperCrew body styles.
While specific output details have not yet been announced, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost® features direct injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger and 16-valves. It also has a forged-steel crank and connecting rods plus chain-driven dual overhead cams.
Among the goodies planned for the FX4 Off-Road package are off-road-tuned shocks, all-terrain tires, a frame-mounted heavy gauge steel front “bash plate,” frame-mounted skid plates and FX4 badges.
The FX4 Terrain Management System™ has four drive modes: Normal; Grass, Gravel and Snow; Mud and Ruts; and Sand. Ford says the system can shift on-the-fly to automatically change throttle response, transmission gearing and vehicle controls, tailoring traction, driveability and performance to terrain and weather conditions.
Snazzy Ranger cabins offer space for up to five passengers and gear. Ford’s available SYNC® 3 system includes an 8-inch touchscreen, while dual LCD screens in the instrument cluster offer vehicle, navigation and audio info.
Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ are included with SYNC® 3, along with Ford+ Alexa personal assistant. The optional FordPass™ Connect 4G LTE is said to provide Wi-Fi access for up to 10 compatible devices. A B&O Play premium audio system is also on the option list.
The 2019 Ranger will offer high-tech safety and driver assist features like Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Reverse Sensing System and Blind Spot Information with trailer coverage.
Note: Features, specifications and launch timing for U.S. market models is subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Ford Motor Company
Story (commentary) © 2018 CarNichiWa.com