New generation 2022 Ford Ranger launched in Malaysia – from RM108,888

Heads-up pick-up truck fans, the new generation 2022 Ford Ranger has made landfall locally!

Brand custodians Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) introduced the new model earlier today and the range features six variants in total covering four main trimlines – XL (AT & MT), XLT (AT & MT), XLT Plus (AT), and Wildtrak (AT).

For those wondering about the absence of the performance-driven Ranger Raptor flagship, worry not as SDAC says this is coming later this year in the fourth quarter (Q4).

Apart from the absent Raptor, all variants harness a 2.0 litre EcoBlue four-cylinder turbodiesel mill that’s offered in single or bi-turbo variations, depending on trimline. Power outputs read at 170 PS and 405 NM in single turbo form whereas the bi-turbo unit serves up 210 PS and 500 NM instead.

As for the transmission choices, the 6-speed automatic for the XL & XLT AT variants, as well as the 10-speed automatic box primed in the XLT Plus and Wildtrak variants, have been heavily revised for greater efficiency. All transmission choices – including the 6-speed MT box – work in tandem with the Blue Oval brand’s familiar part-time 4×4 driveline.

Notably, the Wildtrak’s powertrain also benefits with new selectable drive modes as seen in the outgoing Ranger Raptor: Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery and Mud/Ruts and Sand.

Despite underpinning the same T6 platform as the outgoing model, this latest iteration sees little hardware carried over from its predecessor. It even gets a beefed new exterior design complete with current touches such as LED matrix lighting.

Underneath, the new Ranger’s chassis has been revamped significantly. It now sports a 50 MM wider track, its front wheels shifted further forward by 50 MM to lengthen its wheelbase, as well as repositioned suspension frame rails to create car-like ride quality.

Also widened by 50 MM is the rear cargo box, thus allowing the Ranger to easily accommodate full-sized EU pallets. Whilst here, it’s worth noting the cargo box also benefits with new a plastic-molded bedliner, two240 volt sockets, plus a load box capping to protect the paint and sheet metal.

Besides that, the new Ranger’s cargo box also benefits with a new integrated rear box step behind the rear wheels for easier cargo loading and unloading – users no longer need to step on the rear wheels to access the cargo area from the side.

On board, the cabin sees further improvements as it now includes new touchscreen infotainment units primed with Ford’s new SYNC 4 system, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. All variants also get new interactive 8-inch digital TFT dash displays, retractable cup holders, multiple storage bins, as well as USB-A and USB-C charging ports.

Opt for the higher-specced Wildtrak and the list is further extended to include black leather upholstery, 360-degree high-resolution surround view camera and a Qi wireless smartphone charger.

As for prices, the new 2022 Ford Ranger range commands the following figures:

Wildtrak – from RM168,888 (P. Malaysia), from RM174,388 (E. Malaysia)

XLT Plus – from RM142,888 (P. Malaysia), from RM148,388 (E. Malaysia)

XLT (MT & AT) – from RM124,888 (P. Malaysia), from RM129,888 (E. Malaysia)

XL (MT & AT) - from RM108,888 (P. Malaysia), from RM114,888 (E. Malaysia)

What do you folks think of the new Ranger then? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!