Ford Ranger Wildtrack review

It’s never a good idea to mess too much with a good thing and the Ford Ranger was certainly a good thing. It’s been the nation's favourite pick-up truck for years, offering a blend of comfort, performance and efficiency while also getting the job the done with no quibbles.

In its latest guise, the Ranger sits on a modified version of the old model’s chassis and retains all the key elements that made it an excellent workhorse.

The body has grown in length and width, while boxier styling gives a more purposeful look and aligns it better with Ford’s American pick-ups.

There’s also a big upgrade on the inside, with new technology and improvements in refinement. The car-like cabin features premium elements and soft touch materials, as well as the latest connected services.

The Ranger’s powertrain line-up is revised with entry-level models powered by a 170PS 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine paired with either a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. Higher-spec models can also be matched with a 205PS bi-turbo version of the engine, which only comes with the auto box.

There will be a 240PS 3.0-litre V6 diesel, too, while the range-topping Ranger Raptor gets a fruity petrol V6.

Our test was confined to the 205PS version in mid-spec Wildtrack guise. It’s an impressive performer with 500Nm of torque on tap, enabling a towing capacity of 3,500Kg.

While on the move the 10-speed automatic gearbox helps to keep the Ranger’s fuel consumption above 30mpg and its frequent shifts are rarely noticed.

The engine isn’t the quietest, especially when worked hard, but the Ranger still delivers a high level of on-board refinement for a commercial vehicle.

Its suspension errs on the firm side, which keeps body roll in check and makes for a ride that’s comparable to a sporty SUV. Light steering means the Ranger never feels truly engaging, but it is easy to manoeuvre.

The £40,000 Wildtrack comes loaded with equipment, including leather upholstery, heated seats and a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen.

Lesser models start from £28,500 (CV OTR), with XL and XLT worker variants offered, while the range-topping Platinum costs £46,800.

The FordPass Connect system is fitted across the line-up, providing features such as Remote Start, remote lock and unlock functions, and software updates.

In developing the latest Ranger, Ford listened carefully to customer feedback and implemented a number of changes to ensure the new model ticks all the right boxes.

A tough new plastic-moulded bedliner helps protect the truck bed from and there’s also extra cargo tie-down points to secure loads and a new divider system that can be configured by the user to hold various sized objects.

Accessing the bed has also been made easier, thanks to integrated side steps in the rear bumper.

The Zone Lighting function can be controlled via the infotainment screen or through the FordPass app. It provides 360-degree lighting around the truck to help give customers better visibility around the vehicle. Load box lighting is provided under the left- and right-hand rails and provides useful illumination for finishing up jobs in low light or finding items in the cargo box at night.

The Ranger appeals to broad range of clients, from those that want a workhorse to those that require a more luxurious road-going vehicle. In its latest guise, the Ranger is more usable than ever before and meets the requirements of both driver and fleet operator in equal measure.