Europe’s Ford Ranger Pickup Shows Off Its Practical Features

Ford introduced the new generation of the Ranger mid-size pickup last November, and although the US still gets the old model, European buyers will be able to order the new one starting from late 2022. The automaker claims that this is “the most versatile Ranger ever” and published a video highlighting the practical features of their latest workhorse.

Ford says that pickup use in Europe is no longer limited to farms or building sites, with more and more customers using them as passenger vehicles for leisure activities. Thus, the company made the new generation even better in terms of accomodating families, and carrying stuff like sports equipment, taking input from over 5,000 interviews with existing pickup owners.

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Starting with the cargo capacity which is usually the focal point on pickups, it is 1,200 lt (42.4 cubic feet) and can accommodate a standard European pallet between the wheel arches. Depending on the variant, the bed is 1,638-2,305 mm (64.5-90.7 inches) long, and 50 mm (2 inches) wider than in the previous generation. The side steps integrated on the rear bumper provide easier access, combined with an easy-lift tailgate that doubles as a workbench, and an optional powered roller shutter.

The drop-in bedliner with divider locators allows owners to create their own compartments using custom-made timber dividers. Ford says that the molded profile of the bedliner is more comfortable on your knees, less slippery, and easier to clean. Additionally, an internal rail with spring-loaded adjustable cleats on both sides of the bed makes it configurable for any kind of load. There are also external tie-down rails, and roof channel mounts for racks, with the roof being able to hold loads of up to 350 kg / 772 pounds static or 85 kg / 187 pounds dynamic.

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Finally, the optional power to the box includes 12V sockets and a 400W inverter meaning that owners can power devices like a small oven, an electric cool box, or charge their smartphone and laptop from the bed-mounted outlets. For those who intend to use their Ranger for camping or other outdoor activities that require more power, Ford added space for a second battery under the bonnet and a pre-wired overhead auxiliary switch panel for light bars, winches, tipper bodies, and towing equipment. Using the Zone lighting function that can be controlled from the infotainment touchscreen or from a smartphone, the vehicle illuminates a 360-degree area or specific zones, while there is also load box lighting which comes in handy when you’re looking for gear in the dark.

Besides the aforementioned features, Ford will be offering a list of over 150 factory-backed accessories right from the pickup’s launch. Orders for the new Ranger in Europe will start in late 2022, with the first deliveries scheduled for early 2023.