Entry-level Ford Ranger double cab – What you get for R522,600

South Africa’s roster of Ford Rangers continued to be bolstered by the addition of impressive new high-tech models, but none of these are cheap.

The two newest additions to the bakkie family are the Tremor and Platinum, which go for a cool R977,500 and R1,119,000, respectively.

In contrast, the cheapest double cab on offer from the Blue Oval starts at R522,600, less than half the price of the flagship.

Considering that the Ranger is one of the most popular vehicles in the country, it’s worthwhile to break down the entry-level model’s specifications to see exactly what it is you’re getting before going further and further up the price chain.

What you get

The base Ford Ranger, which doesn’t have any additional signifiers like the XL, XLT, or Wildtrak, is powered by a 2.0-litre, single-turbo diesel engine which generates 125kW and 405Nm.

It is one of the only bakkies in the family to feature a six-speed manual gearbox, as the majority of the line-up is now automatic, and it has an average fuel consumption of 6.9l/100km.

The engine’s power is sent to the back wheels, which provide enough driving force to allow for a towing capacity of 3,500kg and a load-carrying capacity of 995kg.

Regarding its off-road capabilities, the double cab has a ground clearance of 237mm, a wading depth of 800mm, and a wheelbase measuring 3,270mm. Its approach angle measures 30.0 degrees, break-over angle 22.0 degrees, and departure angle 25.6 degrees.

As for its equipment sheet, the starter Ranger sets the standard with 16-inch steel wheels, light-sensing headlights, black bumpers, a tie-down rail for the rear bed, and a full-sized spare wheel.

Inside, you can expect cloth seats, all-electric windows, air conditioning, a multifunction steering wheel, a 10-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four speakers, USB ports, a 12V socket, and a digital driver display.

It also comes with ABS, hill assist, traction control, dynamic stability control, trailer sway control, emergency brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and seven airbags.

Every Ford Ranger is sold with a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 4-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance plan.