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Ford Ranger steals V8 Falcon limelight

The Ranger, which is still more than six months away from showrooms, is a reflection of Ford Australia's new role in the blue oval world.
Designed and developed at Broadmeadows, and twinned with the Mazda BT-50, the Ranger is planned to finally give Ford a rival to the benchmark Toyota HiLux.

But the international sweep of the Ford stand - imported from Europe for the local event - is also reflected in the Focus RS and the latest update of the mid-sized Mondeo.

"Today is our most significant motor show ever," says Ford Australia's president, Marin Burela.  "Australia is playing a key role in the global Ford product story.  Today's show is the springboard to the future."

The Ranger was unveiled at the show by Ford's Asia-Pacific president, Joe Hinrichs, who promises big things from the ute.

"We want to transform the pickup experience," he says.

Paul Gover is a former CarsGuide contributor. During decades of experience as a motoring journalist, he has acted as chief reporter of News Corp Australia. Paul is an all-round automotive...
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