The Blue Oval used the Bangkok International Motor Show to debut the “All New Ford Ranger” to the world. Unfortunately, this world market Ranger is not destined to be the replacement for our aged compact pickup. Too bad, too, as the "All New Ford Ranger" doesn't look half bad.
Despite denying its domestic market a new tiny truck for years now, Ford has no shame in associating Thailand’s all-new Ranger with the company’s “American Tough Truck heritage” and mentioning our own best-selling F-150 in every other sentence.
Ford’s full press release and a couple more pics after the jump…
[Source: Ford]
Bangko, Thailand, March 7, 2006 - The All New Ford Ranger makes its world debut in Thailand at the Bangkok International Motor Show and introduces the latest of Ford's American Tough Truck to the Thailand market. Ford is confident to continue its success in the one-tonne pickup segment with the new Ranger pickup that aims to set a new standard in the industry in terms of engine performance, fuel economy, passenger comfort, safety features, excellent drivability, towing capacity and affordability. The tough exterior and refined interior design is an extension of the most successful pickup truck in the world, the best-selling American Ford F- series trucks for 29 consecutive years.
The new Ford Ranger defines Ford's American Tough Truck heritage and delivers on the company's commitment to offer innovative products to customers that are affordable and of high-quality.
Mr. John Fink, Executive Vice President of Ford Thailand ,recalled that "When the first generation one-tonne Ford Ranger came to Thailand, it revolutionized the entire pickup truck market with innovations that changed the pickup standard – first with passenger airbags and ABS brakes in 1998, first with double cab bodystyle in 2000, and first with Rear Access System on Stretch Cab bodystyle in 2002. With the All New Ford Ranger, we will again set a new standard in engine technology with the new DURATORQ commonrail engine that pushes the boundaries in performance and fuel economy. All these innovations come together in the All New Ford Ranger in a package that is tough, durable and best of all, affordable.
"The All New Ford Ranger is an authentic modern American Tough Truck; through its bold statement of Build Ford Tough design and technology innovation, the All New Ford Ranger really hits the bullseye directly where our customers demand so," Mr. Fink said.
Exceedingly Powerful and Fuel Efficient DURATORQ TDCi Commonrail Engine
The All New Ford Ranger is powered by the latest commonrail engine with 16-valve Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), new generation high pressure Bosch Commonrail Fuel Injection System and Variable Geometry Turbocharger to deliver exceptional engine performance, best-in-class torque, rapid engine response and high fuel economy.
The 2.5L engine delivers 143 PS and 330Nm of torque at a low 1,800 rpm, yet provides 22% better fuel economy than the Ranger's previous 2.5L WLT turbo engine. The 3.0L engine is a new addition to the Ranger, and boasts best-in-class 380 Nm torque at 1,800 rpm and 156PS power output.
The perfect combination of "Variable Geometry Turbocharger" technology and the new generation Commonrail Direct Injection Fuel System increases power output and torque across the driving range – making the All New Ford Ranger a spirited performer on expressways, crowded city streets and off-road conditions, with instantaneous acceleration even when carrying heavy payloads. The Dual Mass Flywheel increases engine response and reduces engine vibration to provide smooth engine acceleration and responsiveness.
The turbo-diesel powertrain is mated to a new 5-speed Manual Transmission, designed for easy shifting for a more car-like response and handling.
Bold and Tough Exterior
Tougher and more muscular, the All New Ford Ranger carries a distinctive ruggedness that runs from the grille up into the power dome of the hood, through the body, and down into the rear. The raised beltline contributes to its bold and commanding profile yet retains a modern and sleek look.
The characteristic 3-bar front grille is wider allowing for improved air-flow and superior cooling for heavy duty hauling and towing. The split front fascia houses new rectangular headlamps designed for off-road application. Its clear-lens reflectors feature jewel-like details to provide superior light distribution.
Large pronounced wheel-arches further enhance the muscular presence of the truck. The new Ranger is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tyres.
Mr. Fink said that "The All New Ford Ranger’s rugged exterior speaks for itself - as an authentic 'Tough Truck' that delivers on command each time. The Ford Blue Oval prominent at the front and rear are proud badges of honor and distinction - hallmarks of its Built Ford Tough American Truck heritage."
Modern and Refined Interiors
While the All New Ford Ranger exterior speaks of "Tough Truck", the interior offers a welcome delight with a space that provides a comfortable and luxurious experience to the driver and passengers through its sedan-like modern and refined interiors, and superb suspension.
The All New Ford Ranger features a refreshing interior color of camel, in addition to the more conventional grey interior. The "power-theme" of the exterior is carried forward to the interiors through bright chrome details. The modern and sporty three-cluster instrument panel is complemented by the bright chrome center stack housing the integrated high fidelity CD player, AM/FM radio with MP3 capability.
The seats have been ergonomically designed with front-seat cushions, side bolsters and bigger headrests to offer better support and comfort for long-distance traveling. The rear seats have improved seat-back angles and feature a central armrest.
There are plenty of uniquely designed storage areas for convenience and functionality. Ranger offers five cup holders and two one-liter bottle holders in the front door trim panels. The large center console consists of upper storage for smaller items and larger lower bin for CDs and larger items. The cavernous 8.1L glove-box adds to more stowage room.
In an industry first, a working tray table pulls out neatly from the instrument panel, suitable for placing lunch or completing paperwork.
Excellent Drivability
The All New Ford Ranger has been engineered to work the way you work, the way you expect your truck to work. Every mechanical aspect of the truck has been engineered and fine-tuned to deliver superior driving and handling.
The Ranger's new ladder frame chassis adds increased rigidity and a tougher and more durable suspension contributes to improved ride capability. Steering has been optimized for easy handling at low speed and firmer steering at higher speeds, allowing for easier low speed parking maneuvers and minimum of understeer and oversteer at high speeds.
Acceleration is instant, smooth and predictable, while body roll is at a minimum and adhesion to the ground is high even under dynamic driving, thus giving the driver excellent road holding control and confidence.
The brake system is designed for superior braking control under real-world loaded work truck conditions. Braking is smooth, stable and controlled. With Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), the system automatically adjusts to the load carried to give confidence to the driver even under maximum payload or towing capacity. The 4-Wheel Antilock Brake System (ABS) prevents wheels from locking during sudden braking on slippery conditions.
Superb Functional Capabilities
The All New Ford Ranger has superb functional capabilities like no other - it is a "truck done right for the job." The pick-up box has been raised 60mm to offer an impressive cargo volume capable of carrying one tonne payload and up to three tonne towing capacity. A unique shelving system incorporated into the pickup box's inner lip design allows for flexible and optimal cargo management.
The All New Ford Ranger continues to set new safety standards in the pickup truck industry through its industry-first seat side airbag. Front driver and passenger airbags are standard. Three-point seatbelts in outboard positions come with seatbelt pre-tensioners that provide improved passenger restraint. Superior body construction designed to manage the crash forces away from vehicle occupants, side intrusion beam for side impact protection and the raised door beltline provide added safety and protection, making the All New Ford Ranger one of the safest trucks in the market today.
As a tough work horse, the Ranger is well equipped to tackle any challenging terrain. Ranger has a generous ramp-over angle while vehicle approach and departure angles have been designed for steep climbs. Combined with extremely tractionable engines and high levels of on-demand torque, the Ranger is an authentic off-roader you can depend on to take you anywhere and to get you back safely. The Ranger's tough 4X4 capability is well proven through the success of its predecessors in conquering the harshest conditions found in the far-flung corners of the world -- the Ford Ranger is the indisputable authentic Build Ford Tough truck.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Ed Kapuscinski @ Mar 8th 2006 11:48AM
Will Ford will offer the tripod for a machinegun as a dealer installed option, or will I still have to go aftermarket for that?
Nathan Jones @ Mar 8th 2006 11:57AM
Will someone please explain Ford's logic on this one?
An "All-New" Ranger for the World....cept you guys in North America...we're just gonna give you an "All-New" grill and tail lights!
What the hell is going on Ford????
Rastus @ Mar 8th 2006 11:57AM
No...absolutely NOT, I wouldn't want a nice turbo-diesel small P/U...nor would any other American. We pride ourselves on our lack of choice, right Bubba?
JayNorth @ Mar 8th 2006 11:57AM
I like this better than the Bronco concept. Is this Production or concept? I didn't read the whole article.
klaatu @ Mar 8th 2006 12:11PM
Personally, I think that the reason that Ford and GM introduce new vehicles worldwide but not in the US, is because there is a negative profit on North American operations (i.e. "HUGE LOSSES") - SO - if the American buyers will buy slightly rehashed old-school vehicles with a new grill, why spend the dough to revamp a plant to build an updated vehicle?
Of course that kind of short-sightedness also means Americans DO get newer, updated vehicles from companies such as Hyundai, Subaru, Toyota, Honda, Kia.
So what GM and Ford need to do is to figure out how to build stylish cars with reliability, here in the US. How might they do that?! Well, they could always use "best industry practises" (i.e. the Toyota Way).
It's not like GM hasn't had a "primer" (lesson) on "how to do it" with 1/2 ownership with Toyota in NUUMI.
I once read an article about a GM lifer who was sent to NUUMI, realized the importance of what he'd learned and when he was pulled back into "the General" from "Siberia" (which is what other lifers essentially considered NUUMI) he was rebuffed and essentially either had to remold himself back into a GM lifer and not pass on the lessons learned, or leave GM - which he did.
Isn't the current US Ford F*/up - whoops I mean Focus, sorry, the "old" version while the rest of the world gets the new one, too?
Point taken?
Puff Chippy @ Mar 8th 2006 12:20PM
If Americans are sappy enough to make the Accord and Camry best sellers why would any automaker attempt to sell stylish, interesting vehicles here? They already know we're not smart enough to buy them. Why do you think all the really cool vehicles end up only for overseas consumption?
Hank @ Mar 8th 2006 12:21PM
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Ford & GM better remember what country brought them into success in the first place. If they want to renew buyer loyalty, they better start showin' a little our way. Toyota seems more grateful to the US for their success than Ford & GM do.
Darren @ Mar 8th 2006 12:40PM
I could not agree with Chippy (#6) more.
When the Camry, Taurus and Accord are the best sellers, it does not say much for the styling tastes of this country!! The Camry? FUGLY!!!!
As a current Ranger owner, I am not really happy with Ford's plans to bloat another good vehicle. One of the reasons I will not buy a new F series is they look like fat caricatures!! I want a real truck, not an imitation of a Tonka.
Aki @ Mar 8th 2006 12:56PM
However ugly people may think the Camry and Accord to be (yeah they're not exactly breathtaking), it's better than Ford sticking to the age-old Focus design. It's less about style and more about the perception that the car company is bringing new things to the forefront.
Oh, and the interior finish of the Accord is leaps and bounds better than the Fusion or Five Hundred. Since you're staring at the interior most of the time you're driving, that's pretty important.
Spider @ Mar 8th 2006 1:00PM
yes, WHY o WHY don't they bring the stupid truck here. Ford is run by a bunch of grade-A morons.
Koba @ Mar 8th 2006 1:05PM
I think this just goes to show how Ford is operating business as usual. That way forward crap is pure BS. Ford has staked it's future success on large trucks and SUVs, and not on innovative new cars. The large truck/SUV line has all been redone in the last couple of years, and they just threw together some cars just as placeholders. The fact is Ford isn't interested in anything they don't already own (ie, which markets they dominate).
Small pickups have profit margins that range from slim to none, so when Ford shys away from a ground up redesign it's a reasonable business decision, at least for the short term.
All I'm saying is this, why should Ford bother to bring great products to market (at high costs) when it will still take a serious mistake by the class leaders just for Ford to get enough market share to make the new model profittable? They (Ford) aren't interested in risking a big investment like bringing this thing over, but they will never turn anything around without taking risks.
Joe Venturella @ Mar 8th 2006 1:41PM
I'm not entirely sure what Ford hopes this will accomplish but I'm fairly certain it's not what The Faithful were looking for. I bought a '93 Splash, new, and drove it for 11 years. Except for rust, it was trouble-free. I wanted to replace it with another regular cab model, but Ford was uncooperative. Couldn't get the 4.0L with a manual shift for awhile; then they stopped making the stepside bed. Etcetera, ad nauseum. By the time I figured out what was going on, I had only leftover '04's to choose from. So now I have an XCab FX4...nice, but no cigar. Lots of body twist; still has squeaks and such (Ford never has figured out how to put two pieces of plastic together without generating noise. I've been waiting, like everyone else, to see if the delayed replacement was worth the wait. Until it gets here, the jury's out, but it sure looks like it would be perfectly happy in front of a Toyota store. And I'll bet a V8's not part of the picture.
Raj @ Mar 8th 2006 2:40PM
Toyota/Honda/Nissan = Reliable vehicles, stylish inside and out, let me repeat, stylish inside AND out, great finishing. Your new Honda Civic can look great with your iPod and Motorola Razaor Cell phone(both American products by the way).
Ford/GM = boring, old world style and ugly and rough finish interior. Your new Ford Focus can look good with your 1989 cordless phone at home which you use to discuss "intellegent design" topics with Pat Robertson.
Linuxman2003 @ Mar 8th 2006 2:43PM
Nice looking truck, too bad we wont get it. I currently have a ranger, and I'm quite happy with it. Unlike most Americans - I figured out that I dont need an f350 dually diesel to drive myself to work and school everyday, and occasionally haul a dirtbike. Personally I hope that the ranger DOESNT get a v8 - not like it needs it! We need to start figuring out that just because we can afford it, doesnt mean we should! I'm tired of seeing these monster 1 ton 4x4 4door bohemoth trucks that never haul anything more than 2 passengers, and of course that 4x4 option sure makes for a nice sticker on the side. If people would simply buy what they realisticly need, instead of being obsessed with just getting something bigger than everyone else, the world would be a better place!
Osnolfa @ Mar 8th 2006 4:21PM
ford effing sucks now and has sucked since the 70s. so has GM (aside from a few interesting products). both have been (at least) one step behind foreign competition for a very long time. it's obvious that their priorities are not focused on the products to close the quality, style, relibility, etc. gaps that exist between domestics and imports. they produce such poorly engineered vehicles that millions of cars have been recalled due to problems that should have been solved long before. that's not to say that other companies have not faced recalls because they have but they still retained their reputations and have moved on. GM and ford just plainly suck and there is nothing that's going to change because it seems like imports are going to have the upper hand for a very long time.
Bill @ Mar 8th 2006 4:50PM
It looks like a nice little truck and it's a shame the US market is stuck with the old Ranger.
If there was a true "compact" truck on the market, like my sadly missed 1993 Mazda B2200 (last of the Japanese Mazda, not a Ranger clone) I'd seriously consider buying one. (A base Tacoma comes close I guess)
All the trucks that used to be compact have crept up in size, and engine displacement, and MPG is down. I know I'm probably outside the of the main market forces (I'm an urbanite, with parking constraints) but a well-designed compact truck could be made so that many families could justify it as an economically viable second-car.
I remember back in the 80's when Nissan and Isuzu (diesel!) had small trucks that had MPG that was better than many small cars, and I remembered ads and marketing that touted them as second cars for casual users. Trucks are much more car-like these days, and I'm sure somebody could come up with something both utilitarian and economical. Not everybody needs a rock-hopper or something with a towing capacity to pull tree stumps out of the ground.
But this is America, so bigger is better is guess.
While we're on the topic, are there any 2wd trucks out there with traction control? This seems like another smart feature given the fact that most people don't really need full-on 4wd or AWD (with weight, cost, complexity, and MPG penalities)
Autobots @ Mar 8th 2006 5:11PM
What is up with all these nagging about, "...bringing this thing here to the States?" It is the same POS that we have here right now! Check Ford website and tell me the differences beside the front grill and corner lights? All I can say to Ford is, NEXT!
laserwizard @ Mar 8th 2006 6:46PM
I'm not sure what is worse - Robert Lutz and the Wagoner Punk's pathetic attempt at building vehicles that anyone would want to buy without the aid of narcotics or Ford's blatant incompetence at addressing glaring holes in its product line. Aside from the F-150, the Mustang, and now the Fusion, Ford has its collective head up its collective arse and offers the rest of the world cars and trucks that would sell like hotcakes in the US. I think that the market exists for a real compact pickup and Ford could exploit that with this new Thai pickup.
Add to this the death of the SVT and Ford is making a lifelong Ford owner look for a used Ford to purchase since there is damned little good stuff on the new car showroom floor.
Justin @ Mar 8th 2006 8:00PM
This is not an "all new" truck at all. This is a rebadged version of the locally buit Mazda Fighter pickup.
Ford and Mazda have had this deal going for ages now. Ford provides Mazda with rebadged Rangers in the US in return for rebadged mazda pickups in the rest of the world. Do your homework before you post this kind of BS. This story is just plain wrong.
http://www.mazdahk.cz/images/cars/BS-EX005.jpg
Dan @ Mar 9th 2006 12:39AM
But i need one