WA debut for latest Ford Ranger

The latest addition to Ford’s Ranger line-up, the 4x4 XL Plus, will be shown to the Australian public for the first time at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre next week, as part of the city’s Mining & Engineering Expo.

Given the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus was produced to meet the needs of the mining industry – and those of other commercial clients whose work takes them to harsh and often remote environments – Ford’s choice of premiere makes perfect sense.

As reported when Ford first unveiled the XL Plus, the model packs in a range of factory features designed to enhance its rugged nature, including 17-inch steel wheels with all-terrain tyres, heavy-duty canvas seat covers, and beefed-up electrics to handle add-ons like a light bar, radio, and driving lights.

The model also comes with daytime running lights, running boards (dual-cab models only), moulded black bumpers and a second (80ah) deep-cycle battery with isolator.

Ford says it’s invested considerable effort in simplifying the addition of commercial equipment to the XL Plus, furthering its appeal for fleet buyers. The five-star ANCAP safety rating will also catch the eye of many commercial operators, and is upheld even when fitted with Ford’s optional ($1800) bullbar. In addition to providing extra protection, the bullbar also comes with mountings for lights, antennas, and flags.

Powered by Ford’s 3.2-litre, five-cylinder turbo-diesel, the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus comes with an automatic transmission, locking rear differential and 3500kg-rated towbar as standard.

To see the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus for yourself, drop by the Ford stand (#2116) at the Mining & Engineering Expo, which will be held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre over May 6-8.