New Ford Ranger TDCi Launched – More Powerful Engine and 5-Speed Auto
The new Ford Ranger TDCi, unveiled two days ago by Ford Malaysia to the Malaysian media appears to be the best Ford Ranger ever! With a totally new body that is marginally bigger, it gives more space and carrying capacity, at a price that is very acceptable to the Malaysian buyer. The XLT manual is priced at RM83, 739.00 while the XLT Automatic is priced at RM88, 639.00, representing a very small adjustment, considering the new features that come with it.
The body and chassis is all new, although at first glance, the fact might totally slip by you, especially if you haven’t been looking at Ford Rangers too closely. Actually it is marginally bigger, but what is important is the additional work done in the development of the chassis to make it stronger, and thus the payload has been increased to take advantage of the large rear deck. Mike Pease, Managing Director of Ford Malaysia stated at the unveiling that, “A truck should look like a truck.” Without a doubt, the new Ranger fits the bill, as Ford has actually designed it to be used both as a practical and tough utility vehicle by giving it all the attributes of a truck, and catering for those who want it to as a daily run-about by putting creature comforts into the cabin.
The new Ranger TDCi also comes with a 5-speed automatic gearbox, adapted from the Explorer (a much bigger and heavier vehicle, which means the gearbox is very strong). This is an industry first for a vehicle in this class and category, and is a quantum leap forward for Ford. The consumer benefit is better driving dynamics, and most importantly, better fuel efficiency. The 5-speed auto feature alone should swing buyers over, not to mention the many current owners who should be beating a path to the doors of Ford dealers all over the country from 9th May when the new Rangers will appear in showrooms.
The new common rail turbo diesel engine moves the new Ford Ranger TDCi to the top of the class with 142 horsepower on tap. This represents a 22 percent increase in power, and the new technology in the engine also brings with it 22 percent better fuel efficiency.
A whole range of new colours are available, of which the Tango (metallic Red) and metallic Blue are quite outstanding.
Keep your eyes on this site, as we shall be testing the new Ranger TDCi real soon.
