Ford has tied up the ranger. The up to 5,35 meter long pick-up now costs at least 27.850 euros, but then only with rear-wheel drive. Under the massive hood, the design of which is now reminiscent of the US icon F150, a five-cylinder diesel with 147 kW / 200 hp is working, which already cuts a good figure in paper form. The pulling power of 470 Newton meters suits the giant well. The possible top speed of 175 km / h is a minor matter for fans, who have to spend a good 44.000 euros for this version.
Of course, the ranger rolls with rear-wheel drive in normal operation. If there is a desire to turn into the rough, a small turn of the switch in the center console is enough. The front axle comes into play, the electronics distribute the drive power fairly to all four wheels. Then, however, the driving behavior changes abruptly. If you stay on a grippy surface, the two-ton truck reluctantly struggles around tight bends and requires a rather lush turning circle. The lesson from it: All-wheel drive only when it gets muddy, sandy or smooth under the wheels. Because the Ranger is a flawless off-road vehicle, which does not shock water passages up to 80 centimeters deep, which can crawl over embankments and which accepts an incline of up to 35 degrees.
Our ranger had a double cabin - one of three body styles, there is also a two-seat version and one with a narrow rear seat. Here it offers almost car comfort, leather-coated on request and with many other contemporary details. The price list offers internet connection with special Ford apps, satellite radio or a new navigation system with voice control and now a 20,3 cm monitor. Distance radar, reversing camera, parking aid and much more can also be ordered. So the giant should also be of interest to recreational athletes who can transport various devices on the 1,55 meter long loading area. The pulling force of up to 3,5 tons also speaks for the Ford as a playmate.
The balance after a tour that sometimes led off-road: The ranger is suitable for professionals and individualists with special demands. It drives smoothly as long as you don't get lost in winding old towns or look for a parking space in the city. The consumption of the strong diesel of an average of ten liters per 100 kilometers is bearable, the comfort is better than the bulky exterior suggests. Critics of such mobiles can still be reassured: You have to stand on the side of the road for a long time before you can spot a ranger in the wild.
Author: Peter Maahn / SP-X