New Ford Ranger revealed

Ford’s Ranger pick-up is an Australian success story, and next year’s new model promises to be better than ever thanks to clever additions.

Ford has revealed its new Ranger ute ahead of the machine reaching showrooms next year.

Developed by an Australian-led team for sale in more than 180 countries, the Ranger represents one of Ford’s most important models – and an Aussie success story.

The new Ford Ranger ute brings high-tech features, convenient touches and a powerful new engine that could help it topple the Toyota HiLux to become Australia’s best-selling car.

The new Ford Ranger ute has full-time all-wheel-drive.

Built on a wider and longer version of the existing model’s chassis, the Ranger has a fresh interior loaded up with a wide-screen digital dashboard and Tesla-like tablet touchscreen that should give it an advantage over the competition.

Fresh exterior styling includes headlights inspired by America’s Ford F-150, along with a wider tray capable of accepting a full-size pallet.

Cabin tweaks include a digital dash and tablet-style touchscreen.

The big news under the bonnet is that Ford’s 3.2-litre five-cylinder engine has been phased out in favour of a 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel.

Ford hasn’t announced power outputs for the unit, which makes about 190kW and 600Nm in American pick-ups.

The new V6 will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive.

There are no hybrid or electric models for now, but Ford promises that the new machine is future-proof, and ready for green power in coming years.

A wider tray with improved tie points makes the Ranger easier to work with.

Customers who want a more efficient – or less expensive – ute can choose 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines with single or twin turbochargers.

The latter is currently found in Ford’s Ranger Raptor, where it serves up 157kW and 500Nm peaks.

Ford hasn’t confirmed the return of the Raptor, but we would be shocked if it isn’t back in showrooms within months of the new model’s debut.

Expect a new Ranger Raptor to debut in 2023.

The range-topping model from launch looks set to be a Ranger Wildtrak shown here with eye-catching orange paint.

While prices and specific details are not available yet, the Wildtrak should come with a wide range of driver assistance tech along with a 12-inch tablet-style touchscreen loaded up with smartphone morning, wireless phone charging, voice activated features and Ford’s latest apps.

Cheaper versions make do with a 10.1-inch display.

The Ranger promises to serve up best-in-class connectivity.

The Wildtrak is likely to have a 360-degree camera, plus clever surround vehicle lighting that makes it easier to set up camp or make running repairs after dark.

Multi-terrain drive modes also feature alongside a smart full-time all-wheel-drive system that adapts to prevailing conditions.

The new Ranger drives the rear wheels most of the time, but can switch to four-wheel-drive electronically without the driver having to stop the car.

Ford promises the new model will be refined on the road and capable on dirt.

Ford consulted more than 5000 prospective owners to see how the previous model could be improved upon. Simple tweaks include side steps moulded behind the rear wheels, plus a ruler and cupholders moulded into the tailgate.

Owners will be able to lock and unlock their car using a FordPass smartphone app capable of booking services and providing tips for getting the most out of the model.

The Ranger caters to a wider variety of customers than most utes.

The Blue Oval also plans to put on four-wheel-drive experiences and concierge services for owners new to off-roading.

The new Ford Ranger will go on sale in the middle of next year.