The Ford Ranger will finally return to the United States early next year but the company has just unveiled a facelifted version of the truck for Australia.
Looking instantly recognizable, the updated model has been equipped with a revised grille that looks virtually identical to one used on the North American variant. The familiar styling cues are visible elsewhere as the Australian Ranger adopts a new front bumper with a “broader intake for a more balanced look.”
The Ranger XLT and Wildtrak receive new HID headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, while the Wildtrak will also be offered with a new Sabre orange paint job. Last but not least, all Rangers will now be equipped with an “easy-lift tailgate” which requires 70% less force to raise.
Ford declined to release interior photos but the company says the truck “now sports a black theme” in the cabin. That’s pretty vague but drivers will also find silver contrast stitching and shadow chrome accents.
On the technology front, a passive entry and start system is now standard on the Ranger XLT and Wildtrak. The truck can also be equipped with a new traffic sign recognition system as well as an autonomous emergency braking system which can detect pedestrians and vehicles.
Under the hood, three different diesel engines will be available. The entry-level unit is a 2.2-liter that produces 158 hp (118 kW / 160 PS) and 283 lb-ft (385 Nm) of torque. Customers can also order a 3.2-liter diesel engine which develops 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS) and 346 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque.
The big news for 2019 is a new 2.0-liter BiTurbo diesel engine which produces 210 hp (157 kW / 213 PS) and 368 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque. The engine is connected to a ten-speed automatic transmission and it will be offered on the XLT and Wildtrak. If the engine sounds familiar, it should as it debuted on the Ranger Raptor earlier this year.
Lastly, engineers upgraded the suspension to improve ride quality and steering precision while also decreasing body roll. Ford didn’t elaborate but the company said the changes don’t have any impact on the truck’s class-leading towing and payload capabilities.
