For decades now, the Ford Ranger has been a model of car synonymous with good, old-fashioned strength, durability, and value for money.
The name has its origins in the late 1950s and the now long-forgotten “Edsel” division, but it’s the Ranger pickup trucks of the 80s that really galvanised the name and the brand.
It was the first of its kind designed and built by Ford themselves and was (proudly) American-made.
The first three generations of Ranger were produced between 1983 and 2012 in a range of models, all of which used a patented single chassis architecture.
This became the standard for all Ford light trucks and the brand has been rolled out across the world too in South America and Australia.
In the UK, these models were replaced by the Ranger PX model, which remains one of the most popular trucks amongst 4×4 fanatics even ten years later.
What you really want to know, however, is how it fares as an off-road vehicle. Can it hold its own against the Range Rovers of this world? Let’s dive in, shall we?
Why is it so popular?
The Ranger is the best-selling pickup truck in the UK, with the double-cab version a particularly solid choice for those seeking a business vehicle that also doubles as a family-friendly car in the double cab rendition.
There are dozens of models to choose from and whilst it might be a little big for some UK roads and has a rather substandard towing capacity given that size, it’s a very capable machine for off-road and overland use.
For those who only dip into off-roading occasionally, the stock models will be more than enough to provide them with all the bumpy thrills they could possibly desire.
But the Ranger Raptor, which debuted in 2019, is a high-performance version with the smallest Ranger engine yet at just 2.0-litres.
A great all-rounder
The modern Ford Ranger is a real powerhouse with some incredible creature comforts. It’s always been top of the pack when it comes to safety with a collapsible steering column and multiple airbags per passenger.
It’s space and minimum payload also mean that it’s a great choice for those that need lots of load space.
It might not be the most efficient pickup on the road but the more modern versions of the car include electric power-assisted steering and audio start-stop.
Off-road performance
As far as off-roading is concerned, the Ranger is the full package. The electronically-controlled 4×4 transmission lets you shift from 2WD to 4WD with ease via a handy dial on the central console.
There’s even a low range 4×4 mode for when you’re planning to test the vehicle’s class-leading 800mm wading depth.
In terms of clearance, there’s a solid 30cm so you’ll have no trouble tackling the really rough stuff.
You could also go for the optional off-road pack from new that adds a locking rear differential and extra underside protection.
Available upgrades
As it’s such a popular vehicle, there are dozens of options available when it comes to upgrades. From wheel arch kits to provide added protection to bespoke roof racks, there are many aesthetic upgrades to choose from. It’s in the off-road upgrades that it really shines though.
The ARB Air Lockers, for example, will enhance the traction of your Ranger in just about any terrain, while the award-winning iDrive Throttle Controller allows you to finetune the response of your acceleration for a bargain price.
Terrain Tamer also makes a wonderful Pro Suspension Kit specifically for the Ranger, which includes parabolic leaf springs at no extra cost. There are also dozens of suspension upgrade options to consider – though we’d personally recommend the Old Man Emu branded kits.
That’s just the tips of the iceberg though. Indeed, at 4X4 Works alone there are hundreds of options to choose from.
So, if you’re a Ford Ranger owner with some heavy off-road ambitions for the near future you’re definitely in the right place!
Image: emirhankaramuk / Shutterstock.com
