2019 Ford Ranger pairs 10-speed transmission with EcoBoost engine for versatility, power and efficiency
Off-Road Package introduces Ford's new Trail Control technology
The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger for North America is packed with driver-assist technologies to make driving easier whether on or off road.
The 2019 model features a new exterior design, chassis and powertrain developed specifically for North American truck customers. Powerful and strong, with a high-strength steel frame, Ranger is equipped with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine mated to what Ford says is the only 10-speed automatic transmission in the segment.
Ranger comes in entry-level XL, mid-level XLT and high-level Lariat trim series with available Chrome and Sport appearance and FX Off-Road packages, and in SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations.
Engineering
The Ranger is tough – from its high-strength steel frame backbone to its frame-mounted steel front and rear bumpers.
A raked grille and windshield are designed to aid in aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. Short overhangs are functional off road for clearing obstacles.
A rugged steel bumper with an available integrated trailer hitch receiver helps make towing easy.
Inside, Ranger blends comfort and functionality with room for up to five people, their gear and accessories. A centre stack includes an 8-inch touchscreen for the available SYNC 3 system, while the instrument cluster features dual LCD productivity screens for real-time vehicle, navigation and audio information.
Ranger's twin-power dome hood houses its 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine designed for efficiency and capability thanks to direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger and 16-valve design. For added durability, the engine features a forged-steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and chain-driven dual overhead cams.
"Ranger's proven 2.3-litre EcoBoost provides a torque target on par with competing V6 engines, but with the efficiency of a four-cylinder," said Thai-Tang. "When you pair that with its 10-speed transmission, you've got one of the most versatile, powerful and efficient powertrains in the segment."
Adventure-ready
Ranger prioritizes ground clearance to help climb over off-road obstacles. The FX4 Off-Road Package provides additional trail capability with off-road-tuned shocks, all-terrain tires, a frame-mounted heavy-gauge steel front bash plate, frame-mounted skid plates and FX4 badging.
To give customers a great all-terrain driving experience, Ranger's FX4 Off-Road Package features an innovative Terrain Management System similar to the F-150 Raptor's. It includes four distinct drive modes – normal; grass, gravel and snow; mud and ruts; and sand. The system can shift on the fly to automatically change throttle responsiveness, transmission gearing and vehicle controls to tailor traction, driveability and performance to any given terrain or weather condition.
The FX4 Off-Road Package introduces Ford's all-new Trail Control technology. Like cruise control for the highway but designed for low-speed, rugged terrain, Trail Control takes over acceleration and braking – sending power and braking to each individual wheel to allow drivers to focus on steering along the course.
Power is distributed through Dana AdvanTEK independent front and solid rear axles on both 2WD and 4WD models with an available electronic-locking rear axle (standard on FX2 and FX4) for increased all-terrain traction. Ranger four-wheel-drive versions feature 2-high, 4-high and 4-low.
Technology
Ranger incorporates smart driver-assist, passenger convenience and connectivity technologies. Advanced driver-assist technologies include standard Automatic Emergency Braking, while Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, a Reverse Sensing System and Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage are standard on XLT and Lariat trim levels. Additional driver-assist technologies standard on Lariat include Pedestrian Detection and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Additional features include optional LED headlamps and taillamps. Optional exterior lighting includes puddle lamps and lighting for the cargo bed, while Ford's available Smart Trailer Tow connector alerts drivers to faulty trailer connections.
