Image: Ford
Image: Ford
Image: Ford
Image: Ford
Image: Ford
Image: Ford
New ModelsBy: Siyavuya Mbaduli
Ford Australia is upping the ante for the 2023 Ranger line-up in the form of the Wildtrak X, which is set to hit showrooms in the latter half of the year.
Image: Ford
The Wildtrak X aims to fill the gap between the regular Wildtrak and the mighty Raptor and it’s being marketed as a special edition rather than just another trim level. What’s more, it’s the first Ranger variant to come with a twin-turbodiesel 2,0-litre engine paired with a full-time 4WD system, rather than the usual part-time setup.
Ford promises that the Wildtrak X delivers exceptional off-road experience, with wider tracks and an additional 26 mm of ground clearance compared to the regular Wildtrak.
The company says the new model also features a “specifically tuned” suspension system that ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even when carrying heavy cargo. Additionally, the Wildtrak X boasts a payload capacity of 3 500 kilograms and rides on new 17-inch wheels wrapped in General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres.
Image: Ford
The Wildtrak X comes equipped with Bilstein dampers, a unique front grille with auxiliary LEDs, cast aluminium side steps and black badges. Notably, the model features Trail Control, a system that acts like cruise control for off-roading at speeds below 32 km/h. There’s also Rock Crawl, which maximises grip in tough off-road conditions when the bakkie is in low-range 4WD mode.
Image: Ford
Powering the Wildtrak X is the aforementioned four-cylinder diesel engine with twin turbos that produces 150 kW of power and 500 N.m of torque, with a 10-speed automatic transmission. However, the engine has been upgraded to comply with Euro 6 emissions standards, making it the first Ranger model to require the use of AdBlue.
This reduces the power output slightly, to 146 kW and 500 N.m, which is 4 kW down on the standard bi-turbo engine. It’s also 34 kW and 100 N.m less than the 3,0-litre turbo-diesel V6 optional in the Ranger XLT, Sport, and Wildtrak (which is not available on the Wildtrak X).
Image: Ford
Also read: Ford Thailand unveils new generation Ranger Stormtrak bakkie
Inside the cabin, the Wildtrak X features leather-trimmed seats with Miko suede inserts and Wildtrak X embroidery on the seats, front and rear floor mats, and the upper glove box. There’s also cyber orange contrast stitching on the seats, steering wheel, gear shifter, doors, and upper glovebox.
The new Ranger gets a 12-inch digital instrument cluster from the Platinum and Raptor models, which replaces the standard 8,0-inch display. The model retains a 12,4-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Image: Ford
All in all, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X looks set to be a compelling addition to the Ranger lineup. With its enhanced off-road capabilities, stylish exterior and interior design and practical features, it could be a top pick for those in need of a capable and versatile workhorse but aren’t interested in the thirsty V6 Raptor.
Keyword: 2023 Wildtrak X added to growing Ford Ranger lineup