Ford dominates the US market with its large pick-ups. In Europe, flatbed trucks are more of a niche business, but here too the bestseller has a blue oval. A new model will come in 2022.
With the Cleaning feiert Ford Pick-up successes in Europe since the beginning of the millennium. The new generation that has now been presented aims to further expand its market share of almost 40 percent with a more present design, higher quality interior and powerful diesels. However, the flatbed truck still has around a year to go.
The dimensions go high
The first photos show the particularly robust "Wildtrack" version, where the bulkier front is particularly noticeable. The standard versions also come with a similarly sized radiator grille and generally use the successful US model F-150 as a visual model more than before. In terms of dimensions, the Ranger has slightly increased its track width, wheelbase and loading area length, but Ford has not yet given exact dates.
The interior has been significantly upgraded. Foamed plastics should provide a pleasant feel, numerous shelves and storage compartments for everyday use. There is also a request for the infotainment system known from the Mustang Mach-E, with a portrait-format touchscreen and digital instruments. A 360-degree camera system should help with maneuvering and off-road driving.
Only diesel and plug-in for Europe
Only diesel engines are initially available for the drive in Europe. The top engine is a 3,0-liter V6 that is coupled to a ten-speed automatic transmission, while a 2,0-liter four-cylinder with either one or two turbos is available for more price-sensitive customers. Ford has not yet given any performance data. The four-cylinder turbo gasoline engine available in other markets is not intended for Europe; instead, a plug-in hybrid for diesel skeptics is likely to be added. With all-wheel drive, Ford has two variants in its range: the well-known, manually switchable and a permanently working, which will probably also be found in the V6 model.
The manufacturer has not yet announced prices for the new Ranger. The current generation starts in the variant with a single cabin at 30.000 euros net (35.807 euros gross). The most important competitor and closest relative of the Ford pick-up will be the new VW Amarok, the new edition of which is based on the Ranger platform. In addition, the competitive field in Europe has recently shrunk, the remaining candidates include Toyota Hilux, Ssangyong Musso and Mitsubishi L200.