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Ford Ranger XLT 2013 review
With more off-road camper-trailers and caravans coming onto the market, it's a task to find something that has the potential to tow off the beaten track.
The new Ranger dual-cab can carry the family and a decent load - we're sampled the XLT six-speed auto 4WD, which is knocking on the door of $55,000 but has a broad breadth of ability
Value
The $53,390 XLT with six-speed automatic (a $2000 impost) has plenty of standard - a USB-input and Bluetooth equipped six-speaker sound system, Bluetooth phone link, cruise control, an auto-dimming centre rear vision mirror, power windows, an alarm, automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers, but tilt-only steering wheel adjustment.
Explore the 2013 Ford Ranger range
There's also a chilled centre console, several 12-volt outlets (including one in the tray), rear parking sensors and dual-zone climate control.
Technology
The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine is a reasonably civilized unit that produces 147kW and 470Nm and is best when hooked up to the intelligent six-speed automatic.
The 80 litre fuel tank is emptied at the rate of 9.2l/100km, says Ford - we finished up with a trip computer that read 10.8.
Design
The big bold nose isn't pretty but it has macho road presence. It's big, 5.3m of overall length, with a high-sided and lined rear tray equipped with tie-down points to keep the one-tonne payload in place.
The cabin is roomy enough for four adults, and the Australian engineering team's efforts to keep it well-insulated and quiet have paid dividends.
Safety
The Ranger scored a five-star ANCAP rating and stability and traction control and six airbags.
The 4WD system is backed by a rear diff lock and the clever trailer sway control function.
Part of the stability control system, Ford says it can brake individual wheels to control a snaking trailer, reassuring back-up when you have a claimed maximum 3350kg braked towing capacity (and a maximum 335kg ball download); the Ranger's listed gross combination mass is 5950kg.
Drive
The big Ford was engineered for global markets by the team at Broadmeadows and it shows - decent ride quality, good body control and steering that doesn't leave you wondering anywhere near as much as the outgoing car or some of the opposition.
The six-speed automatic is the better transmission, with a useful Sport setting and a manual shift mode.
The Ranger showed plenty when it comes to towing, load-lugging or off-roading, with ample grunt, 237mm of ground clearance, 800mm wading depth and a rear diff lock equipped 4WD system that makes short work of most terrain.
Verdict
Ford's new Ranger offers genuine off-road ability, muscular towing specs and everyday usefulness.
Pricing Guides
$25,000
Based on 661 cars listed for sale in the last 6 months
Lowest Price
$9,488
Highest Price
$41,990
Range and Specs
| Vehicle | Specs | Price* | |
|---|---|---|---|
| XL 2.2 Hi-Rider (4x2) | 2.2L, Diesel, 6 SP AUTO | $13,990 – 23,940 | 2013 Ford Ranger 2013 XL 2.2 Hi-Rider (4x2) Pricing and Specs |
| XL 3.2 (4x4) | 3.2L, Diesel, 6 SP MAN | $13,990 – 36,485 | 2013 Ford Ranger 2013 XL 3.2 (4x4) Pricing and Specs |
| XLT 3.2 (4x4) | 3.2L, Diesel, 6 SP MAN | $19,990 – 37,990 | 2013 Ford Ranger 2013 XLT 3.2 (4x4) Pricing and Specs |
| XLT 3.2 Hi-Rider (4x2) | 3.2L, Diesel, 6 SP AUTO | $19,950 – 29,990 | 2013 Ford Ranger 2013 XLT 3.2 Hi-Rider (4x2) Pricing and Specs |
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Pricing Guide
$21,990
Lowest price, based on 11 car listings in the last 6 months
