Ford has announced that the Ranger Wildtrak X will be coming to South Africa in the next few months.
The new bakkie is scheduled to launch in the third quarter of 2023, with its local pricing to be revealed closer to the release date.
The X is based on the Wildtrak double cab derivative that launched at the end of last year, and adds new features intended to make it an even more versatile off-roader.
Features
The biggest difference between the X and the base Wildtrak is a wider stance and increased ground clearance, which is helped out by the standard equipping of all-terrain tyres and 17-inch alloy rims with a new design.
These off-road-focused fittings are further bolstered by a set of specially-tuned Bilstein position-sensitive dampers intended to improve sure-footedness across all surfaces, said Ford.
The X is also the first of the next-gen Rangers to be fitted with Ford’s new Trail Turn Assist system, which applies brake pressure inside the rear wheel to help reduce the turning radius by up to 25%.
This system is intended to be used on loose surfaces at speeds of under 19km/h, and can be engaged in 4H and 4L ratio settings when the rear differential is unlocked, said the manufacturer.
Another new feature is an optional flexible rack system consisting of two items – a sliding load rack that can be locked into five positions along the length of the load bed, and a set of folding roof racks that can be stored inside the rails when not in use.
Performance
The regular Wildtrak is available with two diesel powertrains, either a 2.0-litre bi-turbo, or a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, both of which connect to a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
The blue oval has stated that the X will be made available with the 2.0-litre drivetrain, but made no mention of a V6 option for the X.
This means the bakkie will have a output of 154kW and 500Nm, translating to a maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg.
It will also feature an on-demand four-wheel drive system with 2H, 4H, 4L and 4A modes, and its fuel consumption works out to 7.5l/100km on an average cycle.
The full specification sheet for the Wildtrak X will be announced closer to its launch date later this year.
Ford Ranger Wildtrak X
Loading ...-2025.03.webp)
