2011 T6 Ranger Revealed!

[The Stylist]

Revealed a bit early I think?











http://www.autoincar.com/ford-unveil...fore-thailand/

[sxckevo]

good find! does look better than the previous but imo im not a fan of light trucks. Well done to Ford AUS, hopefully boosts the engineering teams profiles higher

[NC1183]

Looks great, now to see if ARB make a bullbar for it, and see if I can convince the fleet department to get me one.

[Smoke Pursuit]

mmm finally a decent dual cab ute..

My next car

[rancidpunx]

I like the side vents, steering wheel and the gear lever, but in my opinion the PJ is the shape I would choose.

[XRFutura]

That is one very nice looking truck, looks ten times better than the hilux and especially the colorado, looking forward to seeing what the BT-50 looks like.

[JPFS1]

XRFutura

Ranger T6 is better imho than the Bt-50 T6. Both have nice interiors, but the exterior of Ranger works better, the looks suit the application better if that makes sense.

[madmelon]

That looks sick love it!

Hopefully it'll get a powertrain option similar to the recently released Navara/Pathfinder (3.0V6, TT, 170kW, 550Nm) and 3000kg/3500kg towing capacity.

[FPV8U]

Very nice, will be good to see the official pics but so far i like it over the current model, looks much bigger.

[Falc'man]

I like it's look. Well done Ford Au.

Originally Posted by madmelon

That looks sick love it!

Hopefully it'll get a powertrain option similar to the recently released Navara/Pathfinder (3.0V6, TT, 170kW, 550Nm) and 3000kg/3500kg towing capacity.

From the link...

"The Engine is Diesel 2.2 Litre 325 Nm and Diesel 5 pod 3.2 Litre 470 Nm and the lase Gasoline 4 pod 2.5 Litre, All Those Engine are paired both 6 Speed Manaul and 6 Speed Automatic".

[madmelon]

Originally Posted by Falc'man

I like it's look. Well done Ford Au.




From the link...

"The Engine is Diesel 2.2 Litre 325 Nm and Diesel 5 pod 3.2 Litre 470 Nm and the lase Gasoline 4 pod 2.5 Litre, All Those Engine are paired both 6 Speed Manaul and 6 Speed Automatic".

Oops, missed that! Not that the engrish makes anything that much clearer. Is he/she saying it's a 5 cyl diesel?

Wonder which manual and auto trans it gets- I'm guessing Ford corporate 6 speed auto, got no clue on the manual tho.

[jpd80]

Well done Ford Australia, this is a major accomplishment and I hope it leads to bigger things...

[WASP]

That does look good doesnt it.

[HSE2]

Originally Posted by bfiipursuit

mmm finally a decent dual cab ute..

My next car

How many next cars are you going to have?

[csv8]

Will Hagen on Tony Delroy's Motor Show, tonight, 14/10/10. said" talking to american engineers who worked on the Ranger, with Ford Australia engineers, said "they were suprised at the talent among Ford Australia engineers".
My comment " why can Ford Australia build good cars, but not sell them????"

[msman]

front & interior looks good

from the side the first thing that popped into my head was triton

[SumoDog68]

Shape is very Hilux. It looks like Nissan is replying with their 3.0 170kW 550Nm turbodiesel Navara.


http://www.carsales.com.au/news/2010...thfinder-22087

[TheInterceptor]

Diesel, 6 speed MT, dual cab, 4wd, etc, ticks all the right boxes for me and looks the goods aswell, way better than the previous model. Much more musclier.

So im guessing this will be at the Sydney Motor Show thats starting tomorrow?
Shall definatly be checkin it out come sunday

[JPFS1]

Ford unveiled its all-new, global 2011 Ford Ranger "T6" at the Australian International Auto Show, in Sydney, on Friday. A global team headquartered in Australia developed the midsize pickup that replaces two regional Ranger platforms currently used by Ford.

An early reveal of a Ranger Double Cab XLT 4x4 was held Oct.13 at Cockatoo Island, in the Sydney Harbor, for members of the automotive press from around the world.

The Ranger sports "Ford Truck Tough" styling cues that include Ford’s iconic three-bar horizontal grille and wide nostrils, but the new Ranger is more fluid and aerodynamic than the blunt-shaped design of the current U.S. F-150 light-duty and Super Duty heavy-duty trucks.

Global Small Truck Market

Ford says Ranger is the most capable small pickup it has ever built. The completely redesigned rig will go on sale next year in 188 countries. In Australia, it will be sold alongside the lighter Falcon Ute car-based truck. The new Ranger will not be sold in the U.S. or Canada.

Ford’s compact pickup, known as a “Kangaroo Chaser” during its early Australian heritage, dates back to Henry Ford’s 1917 Model TT one-ton, the first chassis built specifically for a truck; the 1925 Model T Runabout, which added a pickup body cargo box, an adjustable tailgate, four stake pockets, and heavy duty leaf springs; and the 1928 Model A, the first closed-cab pickup, with a safety glass windshield, roll-up side windows, and a three-speed transmission. In Australia, the first “ute” was developed, in 1934, by Ford Australia putting a utility back onto a V8 coupe, which was exported to the U.S. In 1979, the first authentic compact pickup, the Ford Courier, was offered in Australia; the Ranger nameplate was introduced in 2007.



The 2011 Ranger sports a freshened "contemporary" exterior and interior design; a new range of diesel and petrol powertrains with increased performance, more torque and improved fuel economy; new technologies that provide greater comfort and better handling; and is longer, wider, and taller than the model it replaces. The new Ranger rides on an all-new frame and chassis that gives it an enhanced and upgraded off-road capability; it also gets as a wider and deeper box, plus increased payload and towing capacity.

Marin Burela, CEO and President of Ford Australia, said the design and development of the new pickup was led by Australia’s Ford Product Development Center and tested in the demanding terrains “of the Land Down Under,” as well as in other countries where the truck will be sold.

"In Australia, Ford reinforces its tough-truck credentials by revitalizing the Ford Courier and re-branding Ford Ranger around the world,” Burela said. "It’s anchored by work credibility, versatility and bolder styling, which will make it more appealing to a dual-purpose user."

"Compact trucks are a global phenomenon from Australia to Argentina," said Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s VP and President of Asia Pacific and Africa regions. "The new Ranger was built with feedback from customers around the world that wanted more truck toughness but also a vehicle that could be used for work and personal transport, with family safety, as well."

The truck will be produced at three assembly plants; Thailand will be the first plant to come on line next year, followed by South Africa and South America. Ford reps declined to identify an on sale date, although says production will begin in Thailand next summer.



Ford said the Ranger raises the bar in this globally competitive segment and offers the most "high-tech product" in its class, as a result of the capability of its all-new family of engines that bring increased performance and fuel economy, a new six-speed transmission, along with gains in quality, and new technologies that improve ride and handling and safety.

"We looked at the evolving needs of this buyer and made it more sure-footed and cutting-edge," Hinrichs said. "The new Ranger has more precise steering, ride comfort, new side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, emergency brake assist, trailer sway control and the segment’s first rear-view camera system. We also know that fuel economy is a reason to buy.”

Hinrichs identified Toyota’s Hilux as the top competitor to the Ranger in Australia. The new model also has the segment’s deepest water-fording depth.

Pickup trucks (combined two-wheel and four-wheel drive) are the second best-selling segment of the market in Australia, after small cars and, therefore, offer Ford a significant growth opportunity, although Ford executives declined to project numbers for Australia and global sales.

Key competitors and their year-to-date (Sept.) sales volume in Australia are Toyota Hilux (30,127);Nissan Navaro (15,932); Mitsubishi Triton (12,384) and the Holden Colorado (10, 380). Ford’s Ranger has sold 10,925 units in 2010 and since 2007 approximately 52,000 Rangers have been sold (total Courier sales since its introduction were 110,528).



Ford calls the introduction of the 2011 Ranger a “rolling launch” for revealing information to the press and buyers. The Blue Oval truck maker has chosen Australia for its first unveiling, but has declined to disclose many specifications, including horsepower, fuel economy and pricing. A staggered model launch in the second half of 2011 will limit opportunity to grow, but Ford expects that 2012 will be the big year for growth of the Ranger globally.

Interior

As the 2011 Ford Ranger’s outside dimensions have grown, the new platform has created a roomier interior and a great ease-of-access into the new truck. It has more shoulder and second-row leg room and comes with seating for up to five, depending on the model. The cabin has been restyled with a more contemporary look, with higher levels of craftsmanship, modern materials and greater feature content. It is also set up to be more driver-oriented.

“It’s a hard-working truck designed to make its hard-working owner proud,” explains its chief designer, Craig Metros, a 24-year Ford veteran who has played as significant role in Ford pickup design around the world. “It’s not often in the pickup truck world that designers get the opportunity to re-invent a vehicle from the ground up”.

Metros, who previously served as design chief for the Ford F-150 light-duty pickup in North America, led the Australia-based design team. He characterises the design of the new Ranger as “21st Century Tough. It’s the result of a design process that answers pickup truck owners’ wants and expectations from all around the world. We explored a bandwidth ranging from Ford North America’s very traditional and much liked F-Series to influences from Europe’s very successful kinetic design language.”



Metros says that Ranger is often used as a sport pickup, in Europe. Therefore, top-of-the-range Limited and Wildtrak models are tailored with leather interiors, larger wheels and many features more typically found on a luxury cars.

“In others parts of the world, including Africa and central Asia, or among fleet buyers, Ranger trucks are for the most part strictly utilitarian, with a hose-out interior,” Metros said. “We looked outside the automotive industry at contemporary designs in many consumer products,” Metros said. “From power tools to wristwatches, we wanted to apply that same sort of ruggedness and purposeful styling to the interior.”

The Ranger’s designers took inspiration from the look of power tools from Bosch and DeWalt for interior styling elements, as well as the G-Shock watch for design cues used for the instrument cluster to create an image of delicate instruments set within a rugged housing. A tastefully-crafted console is the palette for the truck’s navigation screen, audio functions and controls for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system.

Manual transmission models get a new short throw gear shifter and a new, lever-style parking brake is used for optimal driver ergonomics. Double Cab models have 20 different areas of interior storage, with door pocket cupholders designed to hold a water bottle, and an available unique center console with venting from the air conditioner that keeps up to six beverage cans cool; the glove box will also hold a laptop computer. Under the rear seats is stowage for electronic items or small packages can easily be accessed. Also available on some models is a rear-seatback center armrest that folds down and incorporates two cupholders.



Exterior

Think Ford’s Explorer Sport Trac with a power dome on the hood and you have a good first image to draw upon for the first 2011 Ford Ranger Double Cab unveiled in Australia. The front end has a short, low-slung overhang, whereas the pickup’s beltline and rails of the box were raised significantly. A clamshell-shaped hood with a cutline in the fenders is a thoughtful design element that gives good access to the engine bay. A horizontal cutline links the headlamps and front fascia. Headlamps, mirrors and fenders (or mudguard flares) have grown larger and are used to give an integrated look across all versions, and contribute to its sporty and bolder look.

According to Metros, the entire front end of the vehicle, particularly the hood, was very challenging to design, due to pedestrian protection requirements, and the desired aerodynamics to aid with fuel economy and reduce drag. Ranger’s side mirrors are larger for improved rearward vision and were sculpted to reduce wind noise.

The Double Cab model is the first body style to be revealed; the all-new family will include three body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, high- and low-ride models and “a broad series array” that will range from hose-out work trucks to fully-featured personal vehicles, says Ford.

The new pickup is larger in nearly every dimension and has a wider, deeper box capacity, as well as increased cargo capacity. The Double Cab model is 7.5 inches longer, 1.7 inches wider, 2.5 inches taller than the current Double Cab; its wheelbase grows by 8.6 inches to 126.7 inches, which Ford claims is the longest in its class.



The front and rear track on the 4x4 model is 61.4 inches and 62.5 inches on the 4x2 model. The longer wheelbase and increased track were engineered to improve driving and passenger comfort.

Ranger’s chassis set-up comes from the expertise of Ford’s global dynamics engineers from Australia, South Africa, Europe and North America, in addition to using insight from Ford’s manufacturing facilities in Thailand and South America. Ford says its goals of SUV-like handling and comfort; reducing mass; and increasing structural integrity were achieved as a result of the new frame, new front and rear suspension, and new steering system.

All critical driveline components (powertrain, transfer case, oil pan, exhaust system and fuel tank) are tucked between the frame rails to reduce the risk of damage during off roading; underbody shielding protects other important components. Minimum ground clearance on 4x4 models, as well as 4x2 Hi-Riders designed for off-road use, is 9 inches, with the base 16-inch tires. Seventeen-inchers are also available. Dual front hooks – each rated at 13,277 lbs.-come standard on the Australian market Rangers on both 4x4 and 4x2 models. Additionally, the pickup’s electrical components and air intake are mounted high in the engine compartment to reduce the risk of water penetration and potential electrical shorts.

Ride and Handling

Ford’s driving dynamics team set out to develop a "driver’s truck" with agility, precision and comfort when unloaded or working. All powertrain and driveline variants were developed on a test vehicle before the first prototype was built to help engineers design for a wide variety of handling details, including turning circle and optimal suspension geometry, evaluating scrub radius, toe and camber settings, and the ‘elastokinematic’ properties of the front and rear suspension, among other parameters. Its new suspension was developed in conjunction with Mazda.

“Through careful analysis and tuning, we found it was possible to build the first fleet of prototype vehicles close to final properties for suspension geometry including changes under traction, braking and hard cornering,” explained Matt Reilly, vehicle dynamics supervisor. “This was achieved by using a combination of newly developed computer-aided-engineering (CAE) models, the Kinematics and Compliance test rigs available at all Ford development centres and Steering Robots for precise and repeatable test inputs.”

“The result is a Built Ford Tough pickup truck with a single design that provides the best possible road manners. For traditional buyers, the benefits are huge with no compromises in payload capacity or towing ability. For sport utility enthusiasts who prefer smoother, more refined road handling, the all-new Ranger delivers with less of the harshness typically found in trucks,” explains Reilly.

New hard rubber ‘hydro’ mounts, located on the frame between the rail and the cabin, bring improved comfort. Filled with hydraulic fluid, the hydro mounts helps to mitigate vertical and horizontal motions more effectively, thereby reducing body shake and smoothing the harshness typically associated with a truck ride.

Ranger’s longer, stiffer frame is 100 percent new, with a coil-over-shock front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and a new rear leaf spring suspension. It has the largest brakes in its class, with vented disc brakes up front, and drum brakes in the rear.

Increases to wheelbase and track also aid in driving dynamics, both on-road and off. The Ranger team was also able to take advantage of Ford’s ‘smart’ technologies and make them available in the truck: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Traction Control, as well as optional Trailer Sway Control, Adaptive Load Control and Roll-over Mitigation that bring increased safety and control for hauling heavy loads.

Ranger also introduces the segment’s first Rearview Camera system and new Rear Park Assist. The rear-facing camera provides additional visibility; Rear Park Assist sensors alert the driver to obstacles while reversing.
Performance



Ranger comes with two new engines and a choice of six-speed auto or manual transmissions that improve performance, fuel economy and driving range.

Ford’s Duratorq TDCi diesel engines include a 2.2-litre inline four-cylinder with up to 276 pounds-feet of torque and a 3.2-liter inline five-cylinder with a robust 346 pounds-feet of torque.

Ford says it economical new 2.5-litre Ford Duratec I4 petrol engine has more power than its major competitors and is flex fuel capable.

Gasoline-powered Rangers get a standard five-speed manual transmission.

Ranger will achieve a significantly increased payload capacity of up to 3,306 pounds on selected models. While Ford has not announced the truck’s top towing capacity, it says towing will be “exceptional”.

Ford also reports that Ranger will come with more engine/transmission combinations, including many with Stage V emissions capability, as well as a variety of final drive ratios, from a stout 3.31 ring and pinion to an amazingly tall 5.30 rear axle.

The all-new Ranger is filled with a host of “smart” features, including Adaptive Load Control, Trailer Sway Control, Rear Park Assist and the segment’s first Rearview Camera system.

Ford Ranger Leaves the U.S.

Ford Ranger first went on sale in the U.S. in February, 1982. More than 6.5 million have been sold in the U.S., with the best sales year ever in 1999, with 348,358 pickups sold.

"In the past few years, we have averaged around 75,000 Rangers sales annually, with year-to-date sales of 43,000, through the end of September," said Derek Kuzak, Ford Group VP of Product Development, when we asked about why the new Ranger isn’t coming to the U.S.

"The compact pickup market in the U.S. has been declining for more than 15 years, having gone from almost eight percent of the industry in 1994, to just more than two percent through August this year," Kuzak said. "So, we have decided to prioritize our investment in full-size pickups and continue to develop the F-150 in all areas - including outstanding fuel economy. We are just now launching an all-new engine lineup for the F-150 that improves the fuel efficiency of the F-150 line-up by 20 percent. And, we are offering the F-150 XLT Custom Package with the all-new 3.7-liter V6 engine aimed at the entry-level personal use buyer. This new F-150 series will be ideal for those Ranger owners interested in a pickup. For those Ranger customers interested more in affordable transportation than specifically a truck, we now either have or soon will offer many new affordable vehicles including the Fiesta, Focus, 7-passenger Grand C-MAX and the Transit Connect."

"One additional important element of our decision was that this Ranger is bigger than our current product, which we'll build through the 2011 model year, and moves much closer in size to the current F-150," Kuzak added. "So, its use here would become even more limited, especially when compared to the increasingly fuel- efficient F-150."

[JPFS1]

Ford has just released the complete details and images of the new generation 2011 Ford Ranger. The 2011 Ford Ranger had today its world debut at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The 2011 Ford Ranger comes with a new Dagenham-built 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I4 diesel engine that develops 110kW (150PS) and 375Nm of torque. The 2011 Ford Ranger will also be available with a new 3.2-litre, Ford Duratorq TDCi I5 diesel engine developing 147kW (200PS) and 470Nm of torque.

The 2011 Ford Ranger comes equipped with electronically controlled transfer case that allows the driver to shift between 4x2 and 4x4 anytime during driving. In terms of gearbox options, the 2011 Ford Ranger offers a
6-speed automatic and manual transmissions.

The 2011 Ford Ranger has an increased 3,220mm wheelbase and wider track 1,560mm on the 4x4 model and 1,590mm on the 4x2 model.

The 2011 Ford Ranger also offers new "smart" technologies, such as Adaptive Load Control, Trailer Sway Control, Voice Control and a rearview camera system.
Let's talk about payload. The 2011 Ford Ranger Double Cab has a 100mm wider cargo box1,549mm long by 511mm high and has a maximum cargo width of 1,560mm. The total cargo volume of the 2011 Ford Ranger Double Cab is 1.21 cubic meters.

The 2011 Ford Ranger price list and availability have not been announced yet. The Blue Oval however, has announced that it will slowly reveal more specs and details of the 2011 Ford Ranger in the following months.

Ford Press Release: Send through Y!M E-mail this
2011 Ford Ranger 2011 Ford Ranger Photos
The all-new 2011 Ford Ranger – the latest in a wave of global vehicles – makes its worldwide debut today at the Australian International Motor Show. The 2011 Ford Ranger has a powerful presence and promises to give pickup truck owners more can-do capability and a transformed truck ownership experience.

From impressive gains in power and safety to exceptional towing capability, the next-generation 2011 Ford Ranger emerges as a clear segment leader. It not only builds on the tremendous
Ranger heritage of pickup truck capability, but it also gives truck owners a spacious, comfortable, feature-filled interior and sophisticated driving experience they would expect to find only in a car.

Amongst the most high-tech in its segment, Ranger is the impressive result of an all-new global compact pickup truck platform from Ford – the latest to emerge under the company’s One Ford initiative – and Mazda. It replaces two previous-generation compact truck platforms currently in production to present a new face of Built Ford Tough to customers around the world.

Built on innovation, it boasts a list of technologies and features to lead the segment –
including a new Rearview Camera System, Rear Park Assist, Trailer Sway Control and Adaptive Load Control. Ford plans to reveal even more 2011 Ford Ranger technologies in the coming months.

Destined for sale across five continents and more than 180 markets, Ranger will be offered as a complete family of compact trucks – with three different cab body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, two ride heights and up to five series choices, depending on the market.

“We know trucks so we leveraged our best expertise from around the globe to create the all-new 2011 Ford Ranger,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.
“Focusing our global resources on a single new compact pickup truck platform meant we could deliver significant improvements, technologies and features that owners will value, along with impressive fuel economy that alone will be a reason to buy.”

The 2011 Ford Ranger reflects Ford’s insight into compact pickup buyers around the world and their evolving wants.

“Compact pickups are hugely important to customers in many regions of the world,” said Jim Farley, group vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service. “For many, it’s the only vehicle in a household headed by a hard-working person others depend on. These people need a truck that can get the job done – and they’ll be amazed how Ranger’s smart new technologies make the job easier. And increasingly, they’re also looking for the kinds of features, technologies, spaciousness and refinement you’d expect in a car, and Ranger is just as innovative here.”

All-new model builds on strong heritage
For nearly 20 years,Ranger has been one of Ford’s most popular pickups across the globe. It has provided millions of buyers with Ford Tough Truck capabilities – hauling heavy payloads, pulling trailers and absorbing punishment on the roughest roads. The all-new 2011 Ford Ranger now has even more capability but has been transformed into a taut, toned and muscular contemporary shape exuding strength and toughness.

With an all-new chassis frame, front and rear suspension and steering system, Ranger delivers more payload and outstanding towing capability. It is powered by a choice of three new, fuel-efficient powertrains, including two state-of-the-art common-rail Ford Duratorq TDCi diesels and new fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions. Add in more chassis and safety technologies, and the story of Ranger pickup truck leadership becomes as vivid as its powerful, purposeful stance.

Ranger has the flexibility to handle every chore at home or on the job.

Its transformation is perhaps most vivid in the all-new interior, which brings new levels of spaciousness to the compact pickup ownership experience. The 2011 Ford Ranger offers a comfortable and quiet ride, along with a level of features and technologies that make it second-to-none.

The flagship of the new range is the 2011 Ford Ranger XLT Double Cab model unveiled in Sydney in lustrous Aurora Blue, showcasing a gutsy fuel-efficient new 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi 110 kW (150 PS) diesel engine with an impressive 375 Nm of available torque.

“This 2011 Ford Ranger we’re revealing to the world today is compelling evidence of what we can achieve by harnessing the power of One Ford,” said Gary Boes, vehicle line director for Ford’s new compact truck platform.

“The 2011 Ford Ranger responds to what pickup truck owners all around the world want in a vehicle and it was designed and engineered by a team with unrivalled truck expertise. It’s being tested in the most demanding conditions in the most gruelling testing environments on five continents to prove its world-class credentials. Ranger respects truck owners and it will earn their respect day in and day out,” Boes said.

‘21st Century Tough’ styling inside and out
The all-new 2011 Ford Ranger creates a bold and purposeful presence, with a fresh, contemporary exterior design that exudes the famous Built Ford Tough personality. Designers call the look ‘21st Century Tough’.

Taut, toned muscularity and a bold, confident stance instantly signal the strength and capability of an ultra-modern pickup truck. Yet it also communicates a transformed, more sophisticated and refined style that appeals to a new generation of truck owners.

“In many areas of the world, the role of Ranger has changed,” said Craig Metros, chief designer. “It still has to be a work vehicle with a durable interior and the ability to carry a heavy payload, but it also serves a dual role with refinement, comfort and more consumer-friendly features topping the list for many buyers.”

Metros said extensive research among truck customers around the world revealed surprising similarities in taste and design expectations.

While needs and expectations may differ in the 180 markets where it will be sold, the 2011 Ford Ranger Tough Truck design resonates around the world.

“Good design is long lasting and transcends all markets,” said Metros. “Cute gimmicks don’t cut it with this group. It’s a robust truck that gets the job done, first and foremost.”

According to Metros, Ranger looks very tough but not in the more chiselled style of Ford’s larger North American F-Series trucks. The contemporary design will be just as at home on city streets outside trendy restaurants in Cologne or Melbourne as it is in the Outback or on a luxury property development site.

Reflecting the diverse uses of compact pickups around the world, the all-new 2011 Ford Ranger product range will offer everything from basic work trucks with hose-out interiors to high-series models, such as the Ranger Limited and Ranger Wildtrak, both yet to be revealed.

The best of Ford’s design language also have been applied to the interior. Borrowing cues from ergonomically-designed power tools like DEWALT®1, and encasing instruments in a protective shell like a G-Shock®2 watch, designers were inspired to blend form and function while ensuring the instruments are clearly visible for the driver.

Inside, trim panels are designed to be easily substituted. A single basic instrument panel is assembled off-line and simply installed in the vehicle. While the trim styles vary, all parts are designed to be interchangeable.

“Look closely and you’ll see that regardless of the model, we didn’t stray from the basic layout and design,” Metros explained. “All the exterior and interior shapes and panels are identical.”

Small details received careful attention to ensure quality and craftsmanship in every model. From graining on interior panels to tonal colour choices, the execution exudes a premium feel throughout the interior.

On the instrument panel, designs were used that would easily accept modular parts – such as radios, and heating and ventilation controls – to ensure build quality was maintained to eliminate any unsightly gaps.

According to Debbie Pascoe, Ford’s colour and trim design manager, the materials used throughout the cabin have to be especially durable. Seats have to be comfortable but also able to withstand commercial customer usage.

“The typical pickup driver needs space and we designed an interior that is comfortable, easy to slide in and out of, with controls that are larger to accommodate work gloves, for example. When you design a truck interior, special considerations have to be taken to ensure the cabin will be just as durable as the rest of the vehicle. But tough doesn’t have to mean rough,” she said.

Interior materials are subjected to constant abuse and have to withstand punishing rigours not seen in a passenger car. Seating materials must be able to take a beating from tools that are flung into the cabin or forgotten in a back pocket. Door panels can’t be easily scuffed or scratched by dirty boots. And truck customers increasingly want an interior that’s stylish and comfortable for personal use.

“We haven’t forgotten that many of these vehicles are not only used for work but are also primary transportation in many areas of the world as the family vehicle,” Pascoe said.

Three passengers can easily fit into the second row of the 2011 Ford Ranger Double Cab. It offers ample knee clearance and better foot clearance between the B-pillar and the seat. That means getting in and out of the 2011 Ford Ranger has never been easier for rear-seat passengers.

Ample storage is provided throughout the interior cabin with up to 20 storage locations. Double Cab pockets in all four doors can easily fit water bottles and, on selected models, a deep centre console keeps beverages cool. The glove box is large enough to accommodate a laptop computer. Storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console.

Underneath the rear seats, a convenient hidden storage area for electronic items and small packages is provided, while on selected Ranger Double Cab models, an armrest in the centre rear seatback fold includes two cup holders.

To help reduce Ranger’s ownership costs, especially at the fuel pump, a wide range of design features were optimised to improve fuel efficiency. Using the same leading-edge simulation technology as Formula One teams, aerodynamicists performed more than 1000 full-vehicle aerodynamic simulations to perfect the shape of the vehicle.

Using this technology, engineers demonstrated that with a hard line at the fender top, wind flow was divided and resistance lowered. The backlight was positioned more vertically, A-pillars optimised and a small spoiler was added to the top of the tailgate. A front airdam plays a significant role in controlling the airflow underneath the vehicle, leading to a significant reduction in the drag coefficient.

“Decreasing wind resistance was a start. Small incremental gains in fuel efficiency quickly add up and help meet fuel economy targets,” Metros said.

More muscle under the bonnet – three new engines
With a body that is lean and taut, the muscle lies beneath the bonnet. The 2011 Ford Ranger powertrains have been engineered to give customers an uncompromised combination of power and torque.

Ranger introduces three new engines to Ford’s compact pickup truck range globally:
A new 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I4 diesel engine with peak torque output of 375 Nm and power output of 110 kW (150 PS).
A highly responsive and efficient new 3.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi I5 diesel engine with a powerful 470 Nm of torque and power rated at 147 kW (200 PS).
A 2.5-litre Ford Duratec I4 petrol engine with more power at 122 kW (166 PS). It can be configured for E100 flexible fuel capability or aftermarket upfitted to run on CNG or LPG.
“This all-new engine family demonstrates our commitment to making Ranger the best option for today’s pickup truck customer,” said John Tatge, Ranger chief programme engineer. “We’re bringing the best engine technology from the Ford powertrain range to make Ranger the clear choice for capability and fuel economy, particularly with our world-class Duratorq diesels. Their torque makes Ranger the truck to own.”

Developed in Australia and tested and validated around the world, Ranger powerplants are designed to run on a variety of locally blended fuels with different octane ratings.

Selected Ranger powertrains benefit from the advantages of lower engine rpm and reduced wear and tear, with six-speed automatic and manual transmissions available across selected models. Increased fuel economy, coupled with other advances to facilitate maintenance and serviceability, help reduce annual ownership cost.

“The all-new 2011 Ford Ranger is a driver’s pickup truck,” said Rob Sharples, powertrain programme team leader. “It’s inviting to drive, and all of its driver inputs and vehicle controls work together in harmony.”

Transmissions and final drive ratios have been carefully matched to deliver exceptional acceleration, excellent fuel efficiency and a quiet ride.

The new Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission has been extensively tuned to deliver smooth, quick shifts almost imperceptibly to the driver, reinforcing the car-like refinement of the 2011 Ford Ranger. In Normal mode, the calibration focuses on comfort and fuel economy. For sportier driving, a quick flick of the shifter changes the transmission into Sport mode. This provides later shift points and the driver can manually select gears through a forward (downshift) or rearward (upshift) movement.

It also features another smart Ford technology – Grade Control Logic. It automatically downshifts on a downhill grade when sufficient brake pressure is sensed, adding to the 2011 Ford Ranger’s towing and hauling capabilities.

The 6R80 automatic transmission has been designed for both 4x2 and 4x4 versions. It is lightweight and includes strengthened internals that have been designed and tested to Ford’s global commercial vehicle standards.

Ranger can also be fitted with Ford MT82 six-speed manual transmission with its short, car-like shifter – well-positioned ergonomically for the driver – that provides crisp, precise shifting matched perfectly to the generous torque output of the new diesels. An upshift indicator in the instrument panel helps coach drivers on the best gearing for fuel economy.

The 2.5-litre petrol engine is offered standard with the proven Ford MT75 five-speed manual transmission.

The 2011 Ford Ranger four-wheel drive models are equipped with a well-proven electronically controlled transfer case that allow drivers to shift from 4x2 to 4x4 anytime via an electronic switch conveniently located on the console. If extra torque or additional downhill braking is needed, low-range gearing also can be enabled.

Select four-wheel-drive Rangers also can be equipped with either an electric locking differential or a limited slip differential in a wide array of final drive ratios.

While fuel economy certification will take place closer to the start of production, Ford is forecasting that the 2011 Ford Ranger powertrain range will contribute to significant savings at the pump.

New levels of ride quality and chassis control
The same level of detail that makes Ranger stand out in a crowd will set it apart from the competition with an entirely new chassis that provides even more capability along with car-like comfort, reduced steering effort, more precise handling and better on-road stability.

Off-road performance has been improved with a stiffer frame, ground clearance of up to 232 millimetres and driveline components that have been strategically mounted above the frame rail and out of harm’s way.

Despite an increased 3220-millimetre wheelbase – and wider track for the 4x4 model of 1560 millimetres and 4x2 model of 1590 millimetres at the front and rear – the 2011 Ford Ranger’s turning circle makes it easily manoeuvrable in parking and on narrow city streets. Its rack-and-pinion steering system has been thoroughly designed to provide robust performance while delivering more precise steering.

Up front, the entire suspension is brand new. A new coil-over-strut suspension allows for better tuning of the upper and lower wishbone design. The suspension set-up, while similar for two- and four-wheel drive models, has unique capabilities and has been tuned with specific damper valving and spring rates on all models to compensate for weight, centre of gravity, engine torque and drive distribution.

At the rear, an entirely new suspension system provides a smooth, firm comfortable ride with a rear leaf suspension design that has been carefully tuned for a variety of road conditions while still delivering outstanding payload capacity.

The rear suspension also provides Ranger with a firmly planted ride for high-speed driving on dirt roads, common in South America, with reduced sway and less vehicle ‘skate’ on corrugated or rough surfaces.

Considering customers in areas of the world where monsoons cause frequent flooding, Ranger’s key electrical components and air inlets are strategically placed high in the engine compartment. This contributes to impressive water-wading capability.

Offering the biggest brakes in class, stopping power for Ranger is excellent.

All Ranger models are equipped with larger front rotors measuring 302-by-32 millimetres and twin-piston callipers. The brake calliper features a pair of phenolic pistons which reduce weight and improve thermal performance.

Two-wheel-drive vehicles use a 270-by-55-millimetre rear drum, whilst the Hi-Rider and 4x4 vehicles use a 295-by-55-millimetre rear drum.

The brake system has been subjected to extreme environmental conditions and customer driving requirements – at minus 30 degrees Celsius in Sweden, in the intense heat in California’s Death Valley, the congestion of city traffic, the German Autobahn and the unforgiving roads of the Australian Outback.

The largest brake system in segment provides excellent fade resistance, particularly with maximum payload. While competitive systems start to fade and stopping distances increase, the Ranger is engineered to keep performing.

For superior braking performance, Ranger is available with Ford’s Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system that includes four-wheel traction control, yaw control and roll-over mitigation.

Invisible to the driver, the ESP system includes sensors located at all four wheels that independently monitor wheel speed and detect wheel slip during acceleration or braking. If a slip is detected or the vehicle is swerving (yaw), brakes are individually applied to ensure the vehicle stays on its intended path.

Under extreme conditions, the Traction Control System reduces engine torque by managing spark and fuel delivery.

The top level brake system includes Emergency Brake Assist to provide maximum boost for the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and is automatically triggered during panic stop situations. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution accurately maintains brake pressure in rear brake lines to help provide decreased stopping distances. Flashing hazard lights automatically alert following vehicles when an ABS stop is triggered.

Among segment leaders with an exceptional towing capacity, sure-footed grip and stability is ensured with the available Trailer Sway Mitigation and Adaptive Load Control.

If a trailer begins to sway, brakes are selectively applied to slow down the truck-and-trailer combination. To ensure that Ranger maintains a stable ride when carrying full loads of cargo, Adaptive Load Control determines the payload and applies the necessary measures to maintain a straight and level ride.

Like all contemporary Ford products, the 2011 Ford Ranger is engineered to provide comprehensive safety protection, starting with a highly protective body structure utilising high-strength steel throughout to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

Engineers used sophisticated computer modelling to hone the crashworthiness of the 2011 Ford Ranger. This included more than 9000 full-vehicle crash simulations before the first prototype vehicle was subjected to a physical crash test.

The all-new 2011 Ford Ranger offers new passive safety technologies, including the availability of side curtain airbags on all cab styles for the first time.

Other 2011 Ford Ranger technologies – including Rear Park Assist and new Rearview Camera system – not only aid pickup drivers in everyday use, but also help them avoid potential contact with pedestrians.

Payload capabilities
Carrying a crew of five? Headed to the job site with large appliances, building supplies, sand or gravel? Loaded with produce for sale at the local farmer’s market? Whatever the payload, all are easily stored within the cargo box of the new 2011 Ford Ranger double cab – even with a full passenger load.

Measuring 1549 millimetres long, 511 millimetres high and with a maximum cargo width of 1560 millimetres, the cargo box of the double cab is more than 100 millimetres wider. Volume is an impressive 1.21 cubic metres.

Width between the wheel arches is 1139 millimetres on all models and special provisions are provided in the cargo box to place struts of lumber in pockets that are located above the wheel arch. This allows plywood or sheet rock to be stacked flat. Width at the rear tailgate opening at the top of the box is 1330 millimetres.

New from the ground up – more to come
It’s not often that engineers and designers have the opportunity to build a new pickup truck from the ground up, and the 2011 Ford Ranger is evidence of how Ford seized that opportunity.

When Ranger begins production in less than a year, it will set new benchmarks in many categories including a stand-out design, road manners that are smooth and refined, a chassis that is off-road capable and powertrains that are fuel efficient, clean and live up to the global Built Ford Tough promise.

The 2011 Ford Ranger will be manufactured around the world in three volume production sites geared for regional reach, especially in growth regions.

A progressive production ramp-up is slated to begin next summer (Northern Hemisphere) in Rayong, Thailand, for the Asia Pacific region. Ford is transforming plants in Argentina and South Africa for additional capacity to eventually serve other key regions as the launch cadence progresses. The new manufacturing strategy for the single global compact truck platform will drive new levels of product commonality for the 2011 Ford Ranger all around the globe.

Although not planned for introduction in the United States or Canada, the 2011 Ford Ranger will eventually be marketed in 180 countries, making it one of Ford’s farthest reaching products. This reflects the importance of compact pickup trucks to consumers in many parts of the world and the significance of the Ranger in Ford’s global product portfolio.

Ranger also symbolises how Ford is leveraging its global product resources more efficiently. Its product development team was headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. The full-range product development facilities at Ford’s Melbourne-based Broadmeadows Complex and nearby proving ground facilities in Geelong became an ideal base for the global Ranger team.

“One Ford brought all of our strengths together to create the 2011 Ford Ranger,” Kuzak said. “When you look at how important compact trucks are around the world, it was the ideal candidate to be our next global product.”

Ford will progressively reveal more members of the Ranger family in coming months.

[JPFS1]

[Scott]

Looks great. I hope it looks as tough in real life.

My wife and I have been toying with the idea of selling her RX and buying an SR5, will def go and look at one of these when they hit the dealers.

JEM, do you know if it was made suitable for baby seats and capsules?

[grandpa_spec_F6]

I hate driving utes with a passion, although I've only driven 'Holden' utes for work so I might have just had bad experiences.

That being said, even I would buy one of those. Very sporty, great styling, excellent list of running gear, should be interesting to see how they handle off road.

[SteveJH]

Drum brakes on the back? Is that usual on that sort of vehicle?

[JPFS1]

mini site up...

http://www.newfordrangermedia.com/

[HLC]

i didnt read any of that.

But i did make it look like its from western sydney. well kinda, probably a bit too refined for that. needs some primer.

[chevypower]

Love it! I would get the I-5 diesel, 6 speed manual. What it is missing though is the A-pillar grab handle on the driver's side (and both B-pillars), and the US diesel pickups now have exhaust brakes (jake brakes), I would have liked to see this on the I-5 Ranger. It makes a huge difference. Other than that, anything that helps kill Toyota is a good thing.

[JPFS1]

[GS608]

anyone else notice the falcon styling cue in the doors? the crease

[XR Martin]

Looks very Hiluxish, I would have preferred it to look more F150ish