Ford bolsters Ranger with 4x4 XL Plus

Ford says its new Ranger 4x4 XL Plus range was developed with the needs of the mining industry, key government agencies and fleet buyers in mind. However, the new variants also offers private buyers all the usual benefits of a Ranger 4x4 with a number of upgrades that primarily enhance its off-road ability.

Those features include 4x4 shields, mud flaps and tow bar; running boards (double-cabs only); 17-inch steel wheels with all-terrain Continental tyres (265/65 R17); heavy-duty canvas seat covers; expanded wiring harness and switch bezel; 75ah main battery with 80ah deep-cycle accessories battery (and isolator); moulded black bumpers; daytime running lights; and an optional steel bullbar.

The model’s rugged nature is underlined by a locking rear differential and a tow bar rated to 3500kg, while its five-star ANCAP rating will enhance its appeal for both fleet and private buyers alike.

The new models will arrive in dealerships in May 2014 as a single cab/chassis ($46,280 plus on-roads), double cab/chassis ($51,760 plus on-roads) and a double-cab pick-up ($52,760 plus on-roads) formats.

All are fitted with Ford’s 3.2-litre turbo-diesel and six-speed automatic transmission.

The new model keeps the Ranger family’s momentum rolling – the 2014 line-up has also seen airbags included as standard across the range, the availability of the Ranger XLS in both 2.2-litre manual/auto and 3.2-litre auto versions, and improved supply of the flagship Ranger Wildtrak.

According to Ford Australia’s Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Service, Graeme Whickman, the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus gives the mining industry and other key sectors a rugged, durable and capable option.

“These industries place very specific demands on their vehicles so that’s why we created the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus,” he said.

“It will be a popular addition to mining-industry and business-sector fleets but we also expect there to be strong support from private customers who have a particular need for this type of vehicle.”