Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #321]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Ram 1500 Diesel, unibody Ford Ranger replacement, 2014 Chevrolet SS, Mitsubishi doubles its US marketing budget autoblog podcast logo

Episode #321 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2013 Ram 1500 getting a diesel engine, rumors of a unibody replacement for the Ford Ranger, the 2014 Chevrolet SS and Mitsubishi doubling its US marketing budget. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #321:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2014 Porsche Cayman
2013 Ram 1500
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:15:12

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #321

Autoblog Podcast #321 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 hyundai santa fe2013 ram 15002014 chevrolet ss2014 porsche caymanautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 321caymanchevroletdieselfeaturedfordhyundaimitsubishipodcast 321porscheramram 1500 dieselrangersanta fessWed, 20 Feb 2013 18:20:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #321Autoblog01:15:12 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20470370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/20/autoblog-podcast-321/20470370/article-detail.xml 20470370 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #321 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #321


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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #321 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15002013 ram 15002014 chevrolet ssautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 321autoblog podcast 321 topicschevroletfordford rangermitsubishipodcastpodcast 321ramram dieselrangerssunibody pickupunibody rangerTue, 19 Feb 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20467930/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/19/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-321-live/20467930/article-detail.xml 20467930 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Ford talking unibody Ranger replacement]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/ford-talking-unibody-ranger-replacement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/ford-talking-unibody-ranger-replacement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/18/ford-talking-unibody-ranger-replacement/#commentsFiled under: ,

Global Ford Ranger tailgate

Now here's some welcome news. Car and Driver reports Ford is seriously mulling a replacement for the recently deceased Ranger, but the successor to the compact pickup's throne may not look anything like what we've seen from the nameplate in the past.

While speaking at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, Doug Scott, marketing manager for Ford Trucks, said there's still a market for a smaller pickup, but that buyers expect to see a larger differentiation between the smaller utility vehicles and their full size counterparts in price, capability and fuel economy.

According to Scott, that means a vehicle with a payload capacity of around 1,000 pounds paired with a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds and "a dramatic reduction in fuel consumption." But the biggest piece of that recipe is the price tag, and Scott says to keep the MSRP far enough away from the already cheap F-150, the answer could come in the form of a unibody design. Scott says target customers in this market don't care whether the truck has a traditional frame or not, so long as it's tough enough to do the job and has the capability they need.

We should be clear here: Ford hasn't approved such a vehicle for production, but the company is working on developing a business case for the model. Even so, it could be years before buyers see another small pickup on dealer lots.

Ford talking unibody Ranger replacement originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 ford rangercar and driverdoug scottfordrangerunibody pickupMon, 18 Feb 2013 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20465381/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/18/ford-talking-unibody-ranger-replacement/20465381/article-detail.xml 20465381 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ranger-tail-gate-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ranger-tail-gate-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Ranger unanimous pick for International Pick-Up 2013 award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/11/ford-ranger-unanimous-pick-for-international-pick-up-2013-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/11/ford-ranger-unanimous-pick-for-international-pick-up-2013-award/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/11/ford-ranger-unanimous-pick-for-international-pick-up-2013-award/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Ranger

Believe it or not, the full-size pickup trucks that dominate the North American market don't find much favor in other corners of the globe. Elsewhere, powerful mid-sized trucks rule the work site, and the judges behind the 2013 International Pick-Up Award are cognizant of that. They awarded the 2013 Ford Ranger the honor with a unanimous vote. The truck earned praise for its on-road manners and off-road prowess, as well as its towing and payload capacities.

Judges evaluated entries at the Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, and the Ranger managed to take home more points than the next two finishers combined. The Isuzu D-Max took the silver, leaving bronze to the Volkswagen Amarok. So far this year, Ford has won three international awards, including Van of the Year for its Transit Custom and Engine of the Year for the 1.0-liter Ecoboost. Check the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Ford Ranger unanimous pick for International Pick-Up 2013 award

Ford Ranger unanimous pick for International Pick-Up 2013 award originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Nov 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford ranger2013 international pick-up awardfordford rangerglobal ford rangerinternational pick-up awardinternational pickup awardrangerSun, 11 Nov 2012 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20375392/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/11/ford-ranger-unanimous-pick-for-international-pick-up-2013-award/20375392/article-detail.xml 20375392 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-ranger-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/ford-ranger-628.jpg <![CDATA[PickupTrucks.com stages global shootout with new Ranger, Colorado, Hilux and Amarok]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden Colorado in the Pickuptrucks.com Global Shootout

PickupTrucks.com has turned to its friends in Australia for a look at a few of the most popular midsize pickups found Down Under. The result is the Global Pickup Shootout that pits the reigning-champion Toyota Hilux against the Holden Colorado, Volkswagen Amarok and the Ford Ranger. Each truck was faced with a battery of tests that included on-road and off-road performance as well as design and value evaluations.

How did the results shake out? The Toyota Hilux, which hasn't seen a significant update since 2005, is clearly starting to show its age. The truck consistently found itself at the back of the pack, which resulted in a fourth-place finish overall with 29 points. By comparison, the third-place Volkswagen Amarok performed well in the overall value and design segments, but fell behind elsewhere. The German pickup took home 34 points in the evaluation.

The real story here is just how close the first, second and third-place finishers were in the shootout. The Holden Colorado went home with just two more points than the Amarok, thanks largely to its first-place off-road performance, but fell to the Ford Ranger by just one point. That means that the Ranger, Colorado and Amarok were split by just three points in total. Head over to PickupTrucks.com to take a look at the very detailed comparison for more information.

PickupTrucks.com stages global shootout with new Ranger, Colorado, Hilux and Amarok originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarokcoloradofordhiluxholdenpickuptrucks.comrangertoyotavolkswagenvwThu, 30 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20311939/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/20311939/article-detail.xml 20311939 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-global-shootout-1346332983_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-global-shootout-1346332983.jpg <![CDATA[A sentimental goodbye to the last Ford Ranger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/27/a-sentimental-goodbye-to-the-last-ford-ranger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/27/a-sentimental-goodbye-to-the-last-ford-ranger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/27/a-sentimental-goodbye-to-the-last-ford-ranger/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Last Ford Ranger

It's been more than five months since the Twin Cities Assembly Plant in St. Paul, Minnesota went dark. The facility produced Ford vehicles for nearly 100 years before finally being closed as part of ongoing restructuring. The closure coincided with the production of the very last North American Ford Ranger.

As you may recall, that machine is currently in service with Orkin. The website HappyWrenching.com has worked up a video commemorating the plant's final days in operation, and the clip gives us all a look into the atmosphere surrounding the pickup as it rolled off of the assembly line.

Well shot and with plenty of sentimental music, the video gives us yet another reason to miss the old Ranger. Check out the clip for yourself. Bring a hankie.

Continue reading A sentimental goodbye to the last Ford Ranger

A sentimental goodbye to the last Ford Ranger originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 May 2012 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford rangerfordford rangerlast ford rangerrangertwin citiestwin cities assembly plantvideoSun, 27 May 2012 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245875/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/27/a-sentimental-goodbye-to-the-last-ford-ranger/20245875/article-detail.xml 20245875 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/last-ford-ranger-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/last-ford-ranger-628.jpg <![CDATA[Say 'goodbye' to these cars and trucks for the new year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BMW X6 hybrid

As we prepare to flip our calendars from 2011 to 2012, it's time to say goodbye to a handful of vehicles that are being sent to the Great Parking Lot In The Sky before the 2012 model year completely takes hold. And while we're not exactly upset about having to bid farewell to things like the Mitsubishi Endeavor, Mazda Tribute or Chevrolet HHR, there are a few vehicles that we're truly going to miss.

The Mazda RX-8, for example, has grown to be one of our favorite sports cars since its introduction in 2003. We love its lightweight construction, high-revving rotary engine and surprisingly functional suicide door design. It's kind of like a Miata with a roof and rear seats. Speaking of the Miata, Tesla's two-seat Roadster - the automaker's first production vehicle - proved to us that open-top motoring can be thrilling even with a stack of batteries driving the wheels.

We'll miss the Honda Element and its rugged, utilitarian nature. We'll miss the Volvo V50 and its capacious cargo area made for Ikea runs. And we'll really miss those large lords of luxury, the Cadillac DTS and Ford Crown Victoria. We've already said goodbye to the faithful but overripe Ford Ranger, and as ridiculous as the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid was, it was a shockingly good-to-drive electrified crossover.

There are plenty more models that won't be making the journey to the 2012 model year, so have a look at the full list in our attached image gallery, then let us know which ones you'll miss (if any) in the Comments.

Say 'goodbye' to these cars and trucks for the new year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activehybridaltima hybridbmwbuickcadillacchevroletcrown victoriadakotadodgedtseclipseelementendeavorfordhhrhondalucernemazdamitsubishinissanrangerroadsterrx-8s40ststeslatributev50volvox6Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/20133712/article-detail.xml 20133712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-cars-departing-after-2011628-1324570238_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-cars-departing-after-2011628-1324570238.jpg <![CDATA[Final Ford Ranger to be built mid-month, already sold to Orkin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/final-ford-ranger-to-be-built-mid-month-already-sold-to-orkin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/final-ford-ranger-to-be-built-mid-month-already-sold-to-orkin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/final-ford-ranger-to-be-built-mid-month-already-sold-to-orkin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Ranger on duty for Orkin

The Ranger pickup has been an integral part of the Ford truck lineup for decades. But later this month, that will cease to be - at least here in the States. That's when the very last Ranger will roll off the assembly line in St. Paul, Minnesota. And what do you know, it's already found a buyer.

The last Ranger has been sold to Orkin, the pest control company that already relies on fleets of white Rangers (and Chevrolet Colorado pickups) with the red diamond logo on the door and all manner of insecticides and other tools of the trade in the back.

"Since 1983, Orkin has used the Ford Ranger as its primary fleet vehicle because it's a reliable and economical truck," Paul Youngpeter, Director of Fleet for Rollins, Inc. (Orkin's parent company) tells Autoblog. "We're honored that Ford has agreed that we will get the last Ranger, and we'll put into our regular service rotation before it's retired to our corporate archives or used for training."

Orkin says they've got enough Rangers to last them for now, and that the company will pick a successor when the time comes. For our part, it seems only fitting to us that a terminated model should be used by exterminators, but one way or another, at least the final Ranger will be put to good use.

Final Ford Ranger to be built mid-month, already sold to Orkin originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford rangerfordford rangerorkinpest controlrangerrollins incst paulst. paultwin citiesThu, 08 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20123715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/08/final-ford-ranger-to-be-built-mid-month-already-sold-to-orkin/20123715/article-detail.xml 20123715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/weborkin-ranger_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/weborkin-ranger.jpg <![CDATA[New Ford Ranger becomes first pickup to earn Five-Star Euro NCAP rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-ford-ranger-becomes-first-pickup-to-earn-five-star-euro-ncap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-ford-ranger-becomes-first-pickup-to-earn-five-star-euro-ncap/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-ford-ranger-becomes-first-pickup-to-earn-five-star-euro-ncap/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Ford Ranger crash test

Add another reason to lament the fact that the all-new Ford Ranger will not be sold in the United States: It's safe.

Ford says that en route to earning the maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating, the 2012 Ranger earned the best score ever awarded to a pickup truck and the best Euro NCAP rating of any vehicle ever tested for pedestrian protection. Ford will be equipping European Rangers with standard side curtain airbags, side thorax airbags and knee airbags, in addition to its front airbags.

The safety scores for the new model are a big win for Ford. Its 2011 Ranger pickup sold here in the U.S. took a big hit when subjected to revised safety tests implemented this year by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Both 2011 Ranger models tested received only two-star overall ratings from NHTSA. Domestic Ford Ranger production is scheduled to end in December, with no scheduled replacement.

Watch the entire crash test video after the jump.

Continue reading New Ford Ranger becomes first pickup to earn Five-Star Euro NCAP rating

New Ford Ranger becomes first pickup to earn Five-Star Euro NCAP rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford rangercrash testeuro ncapfordncaprangersafetyWed, 26 Oct 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20091021/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/new-ford-ranger-becomes-first-pickup-to-earn-five-star-euro-ncap/20091021/article-detail.xml 20091021 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2012-ford-ranger-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2012-ford-ranger-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling over 26,000 trucks over taillamp issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-recalling-over-26-000-trucks-over-taillamp-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-recalling-over-26-000-trucks-over-taillamp-issues/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/ford-recalling-over-26-000-trucks-over-taillamp-issues/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Ford Ranger

Ford has announced a recall of 26,715 E-Series, Excursion and Ranger vehicles for a defective hazard warning, signal and brake light switch. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, certain F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550 vehicles manufactured between 2002 and 2007, certain Excursion models built between 2002 and 2005 and Ranger pickups built between 2002 and 2011 may have been assembled with a faulty switch that could deform over time.

All of the vehicles were manufactured at the automaker's Twin Cities plant. The deformed switches may eventually lead to malfunctioning lights, which NHTSA warns may increase the risk of an accicent. What's more, the recall also covers certain service parts distributed to dealers as well.

Ford dealers will replace the faulty switches free of charge once the recall begins on or around August 31, 2011. NHTSA urges owners to call Ford customer service with any questions related to the recall. Click past the jump for a look at the full recall notice.

Continue reading Ford recalling over 26,000 trucks over taillamp issues

Ford recalling over 26,000 trucks over taillamp issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>excursionf-250f-350f-seriesfordford recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarangerrecallThu, 21 Jul 2011 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19995963/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/21/ford-recalling-over-26-000-trucks-over-taillamp-issues/19995963/article-detail.xml 19995963 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/2010-ranger_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/2010-ranger.jpg <![CDATA[This is what a Coyote 5.0L V8 looks like in a 2011 Ford Ranger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/this-is-what-a-coyote-5-0l-v8-looks-like-in-a-2011-ford-ranger/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/this-is-what-a-coyote-5-0l-v8-looks-like-in-a-2011-ford-ranger/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/13/this-is-what-a-coyote-5-0l-v8-looks-like-in-a-2011-ford-ranger/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford Ranger V8
Ford Coyote 5.0L V8-powered 2011 Ford Ranger - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well, this certainly sounds dangerous awesome. What you are looking at is a brand-new 5.0-liter Coyote V8 - you know, the one found in the Ford Mustang - shoehorned under the hood of a 2011 Ford Ranger pickup. Talk about a Danger Ranger.

This engine swap comes to us courtesy of S197Forum.com member John, who works for Blow By Racing in Delray Beach, Florida. John states that one of his customers brought in this 2011 Ranger and brought it to the shop for a serious power upgrade. As if the 5.0-liter V8 wasn't enough, this Ranger will also be fitted with a Kenne Bell Mammoth supercharger and a Tremec Magnum T-56 transmission to handle all of the extra grunt.

The finished product should be a total hoot to drive. Let's just hope the suspension (and brakes!) are getting a solid improvement, as well. Head over to S197Forum.com to see the build process.

This is what a Coyote 5.0L V8 looks like in a 2011 Ford Ranger originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford ranger5.05.0 v8coyote v8engine swapfordford coyoteford mustangmustangrangerWed, 13 Jul 2011 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19990535/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/13/this-is-what-a-coyote-5-0l-v8-looks-like-in-a-2011-ford-ranger/19990535/article-detail.xml 19990535 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ranger630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ranger630.jpg <![CDATA[U.S. Ford Ranger production ending this December]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/u-s-ford-ranger-production-ending-this-december/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/u-s-ford-ranger-production-ending-this-december/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/u-s-ford-ranger-production-ending-this-december/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford Ranger

After nearly 30 years, it's finally time for the sun to set on the Ford Ranger. The folks at PickupTrucks.com report that the latest United Auto Workers 879 newsletter states that the Ranger will stop production on December 22, 2011. UAW 879 covers factory workers at Ford's Twin Cities assembly plant in Minnesota where the Ranger is built.

As of this writing, Ford has no plans to offer a replacement for the Ranger here in the United States. However, the automaker just released a larger, brand-new Ranger that will be available in other markets later this year. In the United States, Ford hopes that prospective Ranger customers will look to the entry-level Ford F-150 with its 3.7-liter V6 for pickup truck needs.

In speaking to Autoblog last year, Ford says that its research shows that the vast majority of Ranger customers don't even buy the vehicle because it's a pickup. Instead, these Rangers are sold because customers are looking for the least-expensive, most economical Ford vehicle available. Ford hopes that the Fiesta will fill this void for most people, as well as the Transit Connect, for those who need hauling capability.

U.S. Ford Ranger production ending this December originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford rangerfordrangertwin citiesuawunited auto workersWed, 22 Jun 2011 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19973599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/22/u-s-ford-ranger-production-ending-this-december/19973599/article-detail.xml 19973599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/11rangsportherog14759_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/11rangsportherog14759.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Putting the "Ford" in The Blue Oval's new Ranger pickup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/04/video-putting-the-ford-in-the-blue-ovals-new-ranger-pickup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/04/video-putting-the-ford-in-the-blue-ovals-new-ranger-pickup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/04/video-putting-the-ford-in-the-blue-ovals-new-ranger-pickup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

water testing the new ford ranger
Fording with the Ford Ranger - Click above to watch video after the jump

If you're a Ranger fan, the video posted after the jump is going to make you sad. Ford engineers in Australia filmed the new but not-for-U.S.-consumption truck as its water wading capabilities were put to the test. The results were heaps good.

Ford's new Ranger is available in a Hi-Rider version that's capable of, ahem, fording through an impressive amount of water. Starting at a depth of two-inches, the engineers kept pushing until they were driving through 31.5 inches of engine-killing fluid. The two-inch deep pool is used to simulate long puddles, and the truck is run through at 19, 31 and 40 miles per hour. When filled to the max, the test area is traversed at a much slower 4 mph.

In order to achieve these results, Ford raised the air intake and alternator to a spot where they stay above the water line. Crucial components that sit lower are water-proofed. Click past the jump to see the testing in action, and be sure to read more about the Ranger in the full press release.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Video: Putting the "Ford" in The Blue Oval's new Ranger pickup

Video: Putting the "Ford" in The Blue Oval's new Ranger pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafordford australiaford rangerford ranger hi-riderrangervideowading depthwaterwater fordingMon, 04 Apr 2011 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19902574/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/04/video-putting-the-ford-in-the-blue-ovals-new-ranger-pickup/19902574/article-detail.xml 19902574 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ranger-fording_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ranger-fording.jpg <![CDATA[Video: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak promo makes us want one even more]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/video-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-promo-makes-us-want-one-even-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/video-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-promo-makes-us-want-one-even-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/18/video-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-promo-makes-us-want-one-even-mo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak
2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak - Click above to watch video after the jump

If you just managed to get over the news that the new global Ford Ranger isn't coming to the States, you might want to look away. Ford has just dropped a new promotional video for the Ranger Wildtrak, and the clip has us licking our chops for the forbidden fruit of the FoMoCo realm all over again. Along with a sporty appearance, seating for the whole gang and plenty of off-road ability, the Ranger Wildtrak brings diesel power to the party. Buyers in nearly every corner of the globe but our own can have the mid-sized truck with their choice of one of two torque-tastic diesel engines.

Those include either a 2.2-liter four-cylinder or the 3.8-liter inline five-pot featured in the video. This particular mill delivers a whopping 347 pound-feet of twist and can be mated to a six-speed manual transmission. If that sounds like light-truck perfection to you, welcome to the club. Hit the jump to check out the flick for yourself.


Gallery: Ford Ranger Wildtrak: Geneva 2011


Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Ford via Carplace]

Continue reading Video: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak promo makes us want one even more

Video: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak promo makes us want one even more originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrakford rangerford ranger wildtrakglobal rangerrangerranger wildtrakwildtrakFri, 18 Mar 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19884397/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/18/video-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-promo-makes-us-want-one-even-mo/19884397/article-detail.xml 19884397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ranger-630-1300473474_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ranger-630-1300473474.jpg <![CDATA[Ford announces two recalls, more than 30,000 vehicles affected]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/ford-announces-two-recalls-more-than-30-000-vehicles-affected/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/ford-announces-two-recalls-more-than-30-000-vehicles-affected/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/03/ford-announces-two-recalls-more-than-30-000-vehicles-affected/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Ford Ranger plays in the mud
2010 Ford Ranger - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Detroit News is reporting that Ford and The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration have announced the recall of over 30,000 vehicles. A total of 23,688 Ranger pickups are being brought back to dealers to inspect fuel lines for potential chafing. The problem may result in a gasoline odor or a fuel leak, but is only present on 2010 vehicles equipped with the company's 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. Additionally, Ford is also re-inspecting certain 2011 F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Edge and Flex models that were covered under a previous recall last December.

Those 14,737 vehicles were originally recalled for body control modules that could short out and lead to a fire. The first time around, Ford used a software program to read the serial numbers on the defective parts to correctly identify the pieces that were likely to fail. Unfortunately, the program was apparently reading the wrong set of characters. As a result, some of the faulty modules may not have been replaced. As a result, Ford will take a second look at the parts in hopes of finding those that could be a problem later down the line.


Gallery: 2010 Ford Ranger


[Source: The Detroit News]

Ford announces two recalls, more than 30,000 vehicles affected originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford ranger recall2010 ford rangerfordford rangerford ranger recallford recallnational highway transportation safety administrationnhtsarangerrecallThu, 03 Mar 2011 11:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19866408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/03/ford-announces-two-recalls-more-than-30-000-vehicles-affected/19866408/article-detail.xml 19866408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/2010-ranger_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/2010-ranger.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2011: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak finds open arms around the globe (U.S. not included)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/geneva-2011-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-finds-open-arms-around-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/geneva-2011-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-finds-open-arms-around-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/02/geneva-2011-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-finds-open-arms-around-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Ranger Wildtrak
Ford Ranger Wildtrak - Click above for high-res image gallery

Cinderella was right when they sang "Don't Know What You've Got ('Til It's Gone)." The Ford Ranger has left the country only to reappear around the globe, looking pretty darn good in the process. Leading the charge into our now-broken heart is the 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak; a diesel-sipping, off-road ready, gadget-packed pickup truck that's making out with the rest of the world while all we can do is watch from the sidelines.

The Wildtrak is the newest range-topping trim and it comes crammed full of features. On the outside, the Ranger Wildtrak sports a unique color scheme on its front fascia, 18-inch wheels and a roof rack. Inside, the cabin is fitted with a touch-screen control system that features satellite navigation, Bluetooth, iPod integration and voice recognition.

Under the hood, the 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak is offered with a choice of two diesel engines: A 2.2-liter four-cylinder that produces 277 pound-feet of torque or a 3.2-liter inline-five that generates an impressive 347 lb-ft.

You can stare at it all you want in the gallery below. Just know that heartaches come and go, and all that's left are the words.


Gallery: Ford Ranger Wildtrak: Geneva 2011


Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Geneva 2011: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak finds open arms around the globe (U.S. not included)

Geneva 2011: 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak finds open arms around the globe (U.S. not included) originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford rangerfordgenevageneva 2011geneva motor showrangerranger wildtrakwildtrakWed, 02 Mar 2011 03:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19863550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/02/geneva-2011-2012-ford-ranger-wildtrak-finds-open-arms-around-th/19863550/article-detail.xml 19863550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ford-ranger-wildtrak-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ford-ranger-wildtrak-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 ford ranger
2011 Ford Ranger Wildtrak - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford is bringing its grown-up Ranger to the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Making its world debut is the Ranger Wildtrak, Ford's top-of-the-range pickup packed with premium tech features. The full list of toys has not yet been released but Ford has announced that the Wildtrak boasts voice recognition and a rear-view camera in addition to satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

More important than its interior gadgets, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak is designed to be a tough vehicle when the road disappears. It's capable of wading through water up to 31.5-inches deep and has just over nine inches of ground clearance. Under the hood, the Ranger can be fitted with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder Duratorq engine with 277 pound-feet of torque, or a larger 3.2-liter five-cylinder that churns out 347 lb-ft.

Beyond its interior gewgaws, the Wildtrak is differentiated by different exterior color splits and graphics, along with features like a a standard roof rack and 'sports hoop' (read: faux roll bar) and 18-inch wheels.

As you likely already know, the new Ford Ranger will not be offered for sale here in the United States. If you must have one, book a ticket to London because it goes on sale in Britain this November.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Ranger


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva

Ford Ranger Wildtrak making global debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford ranger wildtrakfordford rangerford ranger wildtrakgenevageneva 2011geneva motor showpickuprangerranger wildtraktruckwildtrakMon, 28 Feb 2011 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19861819/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/28/ford-ranger-wildtrak-making-global-debut-in-geneva/19861819/article-detail.xml 19861819 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lede-new-ranger-wildtrak-rear-view_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/lede-new-ranger-wildtrak-rear-view.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Next-gen Ford Ranger shows locomotive force]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/video-next-gen-ford-ranger-shows-locomotive-force/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/video-next-gen-ford-ranger-shows-locomotive-force/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/06/video-next-gen-ford-ranger-shows-locomotive-force/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Global Ford Ranger pulling locomotive
Global Ford Ranger pulls a locomotive - Click above to watch video after the jump

We're still smarting over the fact that American buyers won't get a chance to sample the goodness that is the new global Ford Ranger, and now the guys and gals at the Blue Oval have set about salting that wound. The company's engineers decided to show off exactly how powerful the little truck is, so they strapped it to a 160-ton locomotive and pulled the engine out of its berth. The Ranger came packing its TDCi diesel 3.2-liter inline five-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque. Bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission and equipped with a low-range transfer case, the pickup appears to have no problem lugging the T-class diesel-electric locomotive out of storage.

After watching the video, we've got to agree with the decision makers at Ford. Absolutely no one on this side of the world would ever want a small diesel pickup truck with a towing capacity of over 6,600 lbs. We're not bitter. Honest. Hit the jump to check out the clip for yourself. Hat tip to The Typical Guy!


Gallery: 2011 Ford Ranger


[Source: YouTube via Top Gear]

Continue reading Video: Next-gen Ford Ranger shows locomotive force

Video: Next-gen Ford Ranger shows locomotive force originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford rangerfordford of australiaford rangerglobal ford rangerlocomotiverangervideoThu, 06 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19789702/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/06/video-next-gen-ford-ranger-shows-locomotive-force/19789702/article-detail.xml 19789702 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ranger-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ranger-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: New Ford Ranger to spawn SUV variant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/22/report-new-ford-ranger-to-spawn-suv-variant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/22/report-new-ford-ranger-to-spawn-suv-variant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/22/report-new-ford-ranger-to-spawn-suv-variant/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Ford Ranger
2011 Ford Ranger - Click above for high-res image gallery

We already know we're not getting the all-new 2011 Ford Ranger pickup truck, while the rest of the world is. Now word on the street internet is that FoMoCo is planning on spawning an SUV variant based off the new Ranger's compact truck platform. With the Explorer going the I'm-just-a-car-under-here crossover route, a full-on body-on-frame SUV would be a welcome addition to the Ford lineup.

According to Ward's Auto, the new Ranger, internally known as project T6, was designed from the get-go to support a seven- or eight-passenger sport utility vehicle. The Ranger's growth spurt is the primary reason we are not gaining the new pickup truck in our market. The long-wheelbase dual-cab Ranger is nearly five inches longer than a single-cab Ford F-150. The two trucks are now too close in size, says Ford, and the departing version is on the outs because its ancient underpinnings are having increasing amounts of trouble meeting regulations, among other things.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Ranger


[Source: Ward's Auto]

Report: New Ford Ranger to spawn SUV variant originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford rangerbody-on-frameexplorerfordford rangerrangerranger SUVT6Fri, 22 Oct 2010 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19683702/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/22/report-new-ford-ranger-to-spawn-suv-variant/19683702/article-detail.xml 19683702 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-ranger-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-ranger-630.jpg <![CDATA[All-new Ford Ranger debuts for the rest of the globe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/all-new-ford-ranger-debuts-for-the-rest-of-the-globe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/all-new-ford-ranger-debuts-for-the-rest-of-the-globe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/14/all-new-ford-ranger-debuts-for-the-rest-of-the-globe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Ford Ranger
2011 Ford Ranger - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford has finally unveiled the not-for-U.S. 2011 Ranger. The company has just pulled the sheets back on its compact pickup at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, and there's no mistaking the newest Blue Oval for anything but a Ford. With its corporate three-bar nose and heavily arched fender openings, the Ranger borrows plenty of cues from the likes of the Edge, but throws in a payload capacity of around 3,300 pounds and engine options with up to 346 pound-feet of torque. The 2011 Ranger will debut in 180 markets with three cab choices, two-wheel and four-wheel drive options and two ride heights.

Under the hood, the most potent engine available will be a stout 3.2-liter Duratorq turbocharged five-cylinder diesel with 200 horsepower and 346 lb-ft of twist, though the company says that there will be a choice of a total of three powerplant options, including one gasoline mill. No matter what engine buyers choose, Ford is serving up six-speed manual and automatic transmissions to handle shifting detail. Hit the jump to check out the full press release for yourself, and no, North Americans, you still can't have one.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Ranger


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading All-new Ford Ranger debuts for the rest of the globe

All-new Ford Ranger debuts for the rest of the globe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Ford Rangeraustralian international motor showbreakingFordFord RangerGlobal RangerRangerThu, 14 Oct 2010 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19673907/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/14/all-new-ford-ranger-debuts-for-the-rest-of-the-globe/19673907/article-detail.xml 19673907 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-ranger-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-ranger-630.jpg -1 2