New Ford Ranger
The latest Ranger pick-up with improved engines, a host of safety advances and new models has been launched. The latest version of the Duratorq diesel now sports 150 bhp or 125 bhp depending on choice of model, with a 3.2 litre monster also available. The 2.2 litre though, is a strong engine, at 320 Nm torque, great to towing a heavy trailer but also easy to drive
Ford Ranger interior
The build quality is typical Ford, switch gear and equipment is bang up to spec. The dashboard and controls are not only car like, but so is the drive. Ford have made enormous safety advances in their commercial range and the pick-up is no exception. The four-wheel drive can be selected on the go as can low range, add that to ESP, Hill Start control, Hill Descent control and even trailer sway control and you get the picture. It’s also possible to include air conditioning, cruise control and Sat-Nav. Obviously , Ford have gone all out to win customers by offering specification. Add a three year, 60,000 mile warranty and you have a ready-made business pick up
Ford service
To look after you once you have your new pick-up, Ford have opened the first of their new Transit Centers. In a market driven by the service standards of Mercedes-Benz commercials and VW Commercials, Ford are aiming to have 100 of the centers by the end of next year. They will operate 24 hours a day and offer late servicing and overnight servicing, services that Mercedes have had for some years to cater for the larger parcel companies whose vans need to be on the road. Ford have invested over £2 bn in their light commercial range, with a target of all new vehicles being in place by early 2014 and the new servicing outlets being open in 2014 also. With the new Transit left to launch next month, they appear to be on target
