Why Ford Ranger XL single cab is a top workhorse choice
Believe it or not, this is probably among the more important Auto tests of the year. See, single cab Ranger bakkies not only make up a large portion of Ford’s local and export revenue, but they also play a formidable role in the continued development of our country. Same goes for any workhorse bakkie, but this farmer and tradesman special is, well, a little more special.
For starters, it looks the part. Even if we’re not sure if we can we still call it ‘next generation’, but Ranger’s handsome American design certainly makes for a strong, boxy stance. That macho grille and F150-inspired C-headlamps even make for an imposing face on this less shiny, utilitarian and minimalist halogen-lit base spec XL workhorse.
Smart sparkle silver 16-inch alloys have locking wheel nuts to complement those muscular haunches. Body-colour front and black rear bumpers and power wing mirrors are standard, while a towbar is optional. Talkng options, ours was a base model with a comprehensive tonneau cover on the back. But Ford offers five cosmetic and functional XL upgrade packs to match every owner need.
Ranger XL is bigger and better in every way
Sitting on a 50 mm longer wheelbase and riding a 50mm wider track versus the previous Ranger, XL single cab will now accommodate a standard European palette between the wheel arches in its 2.3 metre long load box. Six tie-down points and external tie-down rails lie ready for ratchet straps and ropes..
Durable protective plastic box top and tailgate capping protects the busy areas. The naked load bed is also designed to easily accommodate DIY organisation and storage solutions and the lift assistance tailgate really is cool. It doubles as a handy off-site workbench with a nifty ruler, integrated clamp pockets and even cupholders. Fun and functional, it’s more than useful in any work or leisure environment.
Step aboard and you’re greeted by a surprising and impressive fully carpeted cabin protected by all-weather rubber mats. Extra steering reach and rake enhance comfy cloth seats and a pleasant driving position. Vast Goodie storage includes a useful shelf between upper and lower cubbies. An open bin also sits below the centre screen ahead of a large covered central console complete with a 12-volt socket.
Sophisticated cabin is up to the task
Integrated door storage sits below one-handed pinch handles and soft padded rests. The seats do not however fold far enough forward and there’s limited space behind, but Ranger XL is light years ahead in fit. It matches the top end Wildtrak, even if too many plastic types make the finish too fussy. But Ranger XL stars on technology.
Centred around Ford’s 10.1-inch SYNC 4A CarPlay, Auto and Bluetooth infotainment, the multifunction steering, voice and touch-active system crucially retains buttons and knobs for major functions. Always-on and upgradable, it has USB-A and C ports and the FordPass App. And there are cool customisable eight-inch digital dials too.
Powered by Ford’s trusty 125 kW 405 Nm two-litre four-cylinder single turbodiesel, Ranger XL impresses on the road. So much so that it’s difficult to tell the difference to the beefier biturbo without a stopwatch. That much is clear by the Ranger XT Auto Test result. Zero to hundred is as good as, if not better than most top end bakkies.
Ranger XL single turbo more than up to it
Power delivery is smooth, low-down torque staunch. Which makes it so easy to drive. OK, lighter weight helps, but overtaking is easy. And you can happily cruise well beyond highway speed limits. Even if you regularly load your Ranger XL to capacity, or tow heavy trailers, there’s really no need for the biturbo. Especially when you consider the saving.
The 6-speed manual is sturdy and easy to operate with a nicely weighted clutch. A true one-tonner; braked towing capacity is a meaty 3,500 kilos. But fuel efficiency really surprised. We saw less than 6 litres per 100 km on the readout on our rounds and it averaged 6.5. If you’re serious about your fuel economy, this Ranger XL is a must.
The premier double-cab feel spreads to ride quality. Driving longer distances in the single cab proved effortless versus some rival bakkies. Road and wind noise is minimal inside and you no longer need load half a ton in the bak to encourage ride to approach comfortable. Now it starts that way.
Best of all? Ranger XL is Made in South Africa
Surprisingly playful it, it remains composed and does not throw you around, however tough the going gets. Ride is smooth, silent and well composed on dirt roads. Ranger XL really comes into its own on rough and rutted dirt surfaces, while on the fly 4x4 and the standard locking rear differential will aid traction when the going gets even tougher.
To top it all, Ford makes a most compelling argument on how it’s positioned the Ranger XL against its market rivals, Even better, this single cab is tax deductible for business use, saving you a further 15% in South Africa.
If anything, this basement Ford Ranger XL single cab is a most convincing workhorse bakkie. It is stripped down enough for you to keep it basic or customise through Ford’s many options and beyond. Yet it delivers a splendid specification for the buck, is powerful, quick and frugal. Packs a ton, pulls three and a half and looks pretty damned well the part.
And best of all? It’s Made in South Africa. Beat that! – Michele Lupini
Data & Images: Giordano Lupini
ROAD TESTED: Ford Ranger 2.0 XL 4x4 SC
Engine: 125 kW 405 Nm 2-litre turbodiesel I4
Drive: 6-speed manual 4x4
Load Capacity: 1,056 kg
Braked Trailer: 3,500 kg
TESTED:
0-60 km/h: 3.89 sec
0-100 km/h: 9.25 sec
0-120 km/h: 13..18 sec
400m: 16.6 sec @ 131 km/h
80-120 km/h: 7.04 sec
CLAIMED:
VMax: 175 km/h
Fuel: 7.1 l/100 km
CO2: 187 g/km
Range: 1,125 km
Warranty/Service: 4y 120K/up to 8y 200K km
LIST PRICE: R627K
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