In addition to the new Ford Edge the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show will also see the debut of the new Ford Ranger.
The large pickup gets a sharper image with a front design that is in keeping with the latest design language from the Blue Oval. The current Ranger has been making inroads into the European market with Ford claiming a 36 per cent increase in sales year-on-year in the first seven months of 2015.
Exterior
The already sizeable Ford Ranger now carries even more presence thanks to a new, sharper look. A redesigned grille and headlights are the most noticeable changes to the front of the Ranger while the twin-cab layout has been retained also. For the more image conscious Ford is also introducing a new range-topping 'Wildtrak' model, seen here is its signature Pride Orange paintwork. Possibly inspired by the Volkswagen Amarok Canyon, the Ranger Wildtrak also features an all-black front grille, contrasting black door mirrors and roof rails as well as specific branding along the lower door sections.
Interior
The soon-to-be-replaced Ford Ranger has a somewhat utilitarian interior but the new model appears to have been given a more upmarket look, much of which is down to the new dashboard layout and, providing you specify it, the eight-inch SYNC 2 touchscreen. In the Wildtrak model there is two-tone orange and black part leather seats and contrasting orange stitching throughout the cabin including the steering wheel, gear selector and dashboard.
Mechanicals
Ford's engineers have worked at improving the performance figures of the Ranger. The all diesel engine line up consists of a 160hp 2.2-litre TDCi engine that replaces the previous 120- and 150hp units, along with a more powerful 200hp 3.2-litre five-cylinder TDCi unit. Both engines will be offered with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions as well as two- and four-wheel drive variants. Also improved is the fuel consumption, with the 2.2-litre TDCi now returning a combined 43.5mpg.
The new Ford Ranger will also come with a host of safety and technology-based systems available to order, including the voice-activated SYNC 2 infotainment system that features an eight-inch touchscreen. Lane Keeping Alert, Lane Keeping Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, Front and Rear Park Assist, read View Camera along with an Electronic Stability Control system with rollover mitigation and trailer sway control will all be available. Ford also states that the new Ranger is capable of towing up to 3,500kg.
Anything else?
Other driver aids on offer with the Ford Ranger include Hill Launch Assist that works going either forwards or in reverse, Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Load Control and Emergency Brake Assistance. This last option adds more pressure to the brake system to increase braking force when in an emergency braking situation.