The EFTM Garage – Ford Ranger Wildtrak

If you’re after a big ute or pickup, you really are spoilt for choice. This week, we move between siblings. Mechanically the Bt-50 and Ranger are almost identical, but on the outside its a very different story. We’ve driven and loved the Ranger before, this week we’re experiencing the Wildtrak.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak

Make: Ford

Model: Ranger

Variant: Wildtrak

Engine / Transmission: 3.2-litre in-line 5 cylinder 20 valve DOHC intercooled turbo diesel, 6-speed auto

Drivetrain: 4×4

Vital Stats: 147Kw @ 3000rpm 470Nm @ 1500 – 2,750rpm

Ford Claimed Fuel Economy: 9.6L/100km diesel

EFTM Claimed Fuel Economy: 10.1/100km (Unladen, light off road work, combined urban and motorway driving)

RRP Price: From $57,390

Standard Features: 80 litre fuel tank capacity, 18 inch alloy wheels, Power windows and mirrors (black), Dual zone air-conditioning, 5-inch colour screen with satellite navigation, Voice recognition for some features, Bluetooth® (hands-free compatible), Bluetooth® audio (MP3 player compatible), USB input (iPod® compatible), Cruise control, Trip computer, Reversing camera integrated into auto dimming rear-view mirror, dusk sensing headlamps, Wildtrak carpet floor mats, Power driver’s seat, Heated front seats, Leather / cloth seats with orange pinstripes, Privacy glass, Roof rails, Tray roller shutter, Black Aero bar, Audio system with AM/FM tuner, single-disc CD player and 6 speakers, Locking Rear Differential (4×4 only), Towing capacity (braked) 3,500kg with tow bar included.

Safety highlights: Airbags: front (driver and passenger), side (front) and curtain (front and rear), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Child restraint anchor points, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Hill Descent Control (HDC) – 4×4 only and Hill Launch Assist (HLA)

Wow Factor: Best looking dual cab on the market, handling on the cusp of SUV standard.

Most Impressive: Upmarket interior, tough looking. Comfortable accommodation upfront.

Not so impressive: Rear seat passengers sit bolt upright. Sheer size may intimidate some. Not cheap, $4000 premium over still excellent XLT Ranger.

Early verdict: VW Amarok may be technically superior, but this is a man’s man dual cab.

Chris Bowen

Chris was EFTM's Motoring Editor for many years, driving everything from your entry level hatch to the latest Luxury cars through to the Rolls Royce. He has been in the media for 20 years, produced three Olympic games broadcasts, attending Beijing 2008 & London 2012. Strangely he owns a Toyota Camry Hybrid, he defiantly rejects the knockers. Chris is married to Gillian and resides in Sydney's North West. They have Sam the English Springer Spaniel and Felix the Burmese cat to keep them company, and recently welcomed baby Henry to the family. He has now left EFTM, and writes freelance and runs his own Facebook Page "Bowen's Garage"