Ford is happy to announce that they’re torturing the 2019 Ranger to make sure that the new truck is up to Built Ford Tough durability standards.
From grueling lab tests to robotic testing, from jagged trails in the Australian Outback to the Arizona desert, the new Ranger has to survive them all. One of the main tests are suspension and body mounts, so that squeaks and rattles won’t ruin the adventure.
“We torture every component – from its high-strength steel frame to its EcoBoost engine to its cloth and leather-trimmed seats – to ensure Ranger is ready for any season and nearly any terrain,” said Rick Bolt, Ford Ranger chief engineer.
At Ford’s Michigan Proving Grounds, a fully loaded Ranger hits the brutal Silver Creek track with impacts so severe robotic drivers are used so humans don’t get injured. In the lab, a four-post shaker table abuses Ranger for days to check against squeaks and rattles. In the real world, Ranger towing capability is tested in high temperatures on the unforgiving long steep grades of Davis Dam in Arizona, while the Australian Outback treats the truck to more heat and choking dust over harsh off-road terrain.
Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage add to the list of driver assistance features. Other features include in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot with connectivity up to 10 devices and Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Powering the new Ranger is a 2.3L EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop technology, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. A 2.0L biturbo diesel motor is expected to join as well.
The new Ranger is available in 3 main trims – XL, XLT and Lariat (featured here). Ford is offering FX4 off-road package that includes bash and skid plates to protect the undercarriage from damage, all-terrain tires, and a status screen that shows the pitch and roll of the truck and steering angle of the front wheels.
Other options include Trail Control (off-road cruise control), shift-on-the-fly Terrain Management System with four modes – Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud Ruts, Sand and Normal mode, and electronic locking rear differential to be used at low speeds on low-traction surfaces.
The new Ranger will go on sale in United States in early 2019.
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