While the overall silhouette remains the same, the 2026 Ranger adopts a more aggressive visual identity. Ford is moving away from bright chrome accents, replacing them with a mix of gloss-black and matte-black finishes across the exterior and interior.

The most notable change is found at the front end, where the signature “C-Clamp” LED headlamps now flank a revised grille treatment. Depending on the trim, buyers will see more blacked-out detailing on the wing mirror housings and door handles. Fresh wheel designs have also been added to the catalog to complement the new look, along with an updated palette of exterior paint colors—including the exclusive “Chill Grey” for select limited editions.

The most significant technical addition to the 2026 portfolio is the introduction of the 2.3l EcoBoost petrol engine. While this power plant is a staple of Ford’s global performance catalog, its specific tuning for the Ranger delivers 222kW of power and 452Nm of torque.

This move signals a strategic play for buyers who prioritise athletic on-road refinement over traditional diesel characteristics. The EcoBoost engine has been designated as the primary heart for the Wildtrak 4×2 and the newly introduced Ranger Sport 4×2, offering a high-output alternative for those who use their bakkies primarily in urban or highway environments.

Ford is also responding to high demand for its 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel by expanding its availability. Previously reserved for the highest-tier flagships, the V6 which produces 184kW and 600Nm will now power a wider selection of the range.

Most notably, the Wildtrak Super Cab 4×4 and the off-road-focused Ranger Tremor are being upgraded to the V6 as standard, replacing the previous 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo unit. This change specifically targets the towing and overlanding community, ensuring that the 3500kg maximum towing capacity is backed by the effortless torque delivery of the six-cylinder engine.

Slotting into the increasingly crowded space between the leisure-focused XLT and the premium Wildtrak is the new Ranger Sport. Available in both Super Cab and Double Cab configurations, the Sport derivative is designed to be the “sweet spot” for dual-purpose users.

Buyers of the Sport can choose between two distinct personalities: a 4×2 model equipped with the new 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine or a high-capability 4×4 version powered by the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel. Both options are paired exclusively with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, which has now been standardised across every automatic model in the 2026 range.

While the high-performance engines grab the headlines, the high-volume 2.0-litre Single-Turbo diesel engine has received a critical mechanical update. Ford has introduced a new timing chain system designed to enhance long-term durability and simplify maintenance schedules.

This engine remains the backbone of the XL and XLT series, producing 125kW and 405Nm. By pairing this upgraded engine with the 10-speed automatic across more models, Ford is aiming to improve fuel efficiency and torque delivery for fleet and business owners who rely on the Ranger as a primary work tool.

The 2026 lineup now comprises 23 derivatives, representing one of the most comprehensive bakkie portfolios in the country. This includes the entry-level XL models, which have been streamlined to focus on low operating costs for business customers, and the ultra-luxurious Platinum variant which continues to lead the range in comfort and technology.

At the top of the pyramid, the Ranger Raptor remains unchanged mechanically, continuing to utilise its race-developed suspension and 292kW twin-turbo V6 petrol engine. Meanwhile, the Wildtrak X has transitioned from a standalone model to an optional performance package, allowing Wildtrak owners to customise the level of off-road intensity they require without sacrificing the premium features of the standard V6 platform.

The programme enables Ford-approved conversion specialists to modify the company’s Ranger, Everest, and Transit product lines for specialised commercial and industrial applications while maintaining the integrity of factory warranties and dealer support networks.

“The Ford Pro Convertor launch demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, customised commercial vehicle solutions that empower businesses and organisations across South Africa,” says Tracey Delate, General Manager of Direct Sales Operations at Ford South Africa. “Our comprehensive approval and support framework ensures that each conversion is done to exacting standards without compromising vehicle functionality, safety, or warranty. Whether it’s a mobile clinic, an emergency vehicle, or a specialised mining support truck, Ford Pro Convertor conversions provides peace of mind and reliable operation tailored to the customers’ unique requirements.”

Comprehensive Conversion Portfolio

The FPC programme supports a wide range of vehicle modifications to meet diverse commercial needs across multiple industries. Common conversions include:

• Dropside bakkies with fold-down sides for enhanced loading flexibility
• Emergency response vehicles and ambulances
• Armoured protection vehicles
• Mining and construction support vehicles
• Mobile clinics and medical response units
• Specialised security vehicles

Each conversion undergoes Ford’s rigorous approval and auditing processes to ensure they meet the company’s stringent quality standards, maintain functional integrity, and preserve the original factory warranty on all unmodified components.

Streamlined Customer Experience

The conversion process has been designed with customer convenience in mind. The journey begins at any Ford dealership, where customers are directed to approved conversion partners capable of meeting their specific requirements.

After detailed consultations and quotation processes, and once payment or financing is arranged, the dealer coordinates directly with the approved convertor to execute the modifications. While most conversions are completed within 4-6 weeks, timelines can vary based on the complexity of individual projects.

Warranty Protection and Legal Compliance

A key advantage of the Ford Pro Convertor programme is its comprehensive warranty coverage. The original factory warranty remains valid for all non-modified components, while the conversion itself is covered by the approved convertor’s warranty – matched to Ford’s standard four-year or 120,000-kilometer factory coverage.

Upon completion, customers receive a Homologation Certificate confirming the vehicle’s legal status in its converted form. This documentation ensures the vehicle can be legally registered and operated in its modified state, and can be resold without the need to revert to its original specifications.

Customised Pricing Structure

Given the diverse nature of commercial vehicle modifications, Ford has implemented a tailored pricing approach. Rather than fixed conversion packages, quotes are developed based on each customer’s specific requirements and modification scope. This ensures businesses receive exactly what they need without paying for unnecessary features.

The FPC programme provides South African businesses with access to customised vehicle solutions backed by Ford’s comprehensive dealer network, spares availability, and service infrastructure – crucial factors for operations that depend on vehicle reliability and minimal downtime.

For more information about Ford Pro Convertor services or to discuss specific conversion requirements, interested parties can contact their nearest Ford dealer.

The new generation Ford Ranger is a mid-size bakkie that is designed to meet the needs of both urban and rural drivers. With its brand new rugged and durable construction, advanced technology, and powerful performance, the Ranger is a versatile vehicle that can handle a wide range of tasks and activities.

One of the first things that you will notice about the new Ranger is its striking and aggressive design. The front of the truck has been completely redesigned and now features a bold grille and sleek headlights that give it a bold and imposing look. Those C-shaped daytime LED lights are a looker, even from your reverse mirror. The body of the truck is also designed to be aerodynamic, which helps to reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. I couldn’t help but notice how much bigger the shoulders of the vehicle have grown, compared to the outgoing model.

Under the bonnet, the Ranger is powered by a choice of either a 2.0-litre Single Turbo and Bi-Turbo in-line four-cylinder diesel engines as well as Ford’s proven 3.0L V6 turbodiesel. The latter, only found in the Wildtrak derivative, is a powerful engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps to provide smooth and responsive acceleration. Its certainly a favourite. But if we’re being honest, you’d be perfectly fine off with the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine. Trust me.

The Ranger also comes with a variety of advanced driver assistance features, such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera.

There’s also a variety of advanced technology features that make it one of the most connected and convenient bakkies on the market. It comes with Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system, which allows you to easily control your audio, navigation, ventilation and other features using voice commands. All mated to a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display. It’s super clear and responds quickly to the touch. A needed improvement compared to the outgoing model. As with all Ford models of late, there’s support for FordPass too. FordPass enhances the ownership experience with features like remote start, vehicle status check and health alerts, digital owner’s manual and remote lock and unlock functions via your mobile device.

If we’re being honest, you’d be perfectly fine with the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine.

When it comes to cargo and towing capacity, the Ranger is one of the most capable bakkies in its class. The Ranger can tow up to 3500 kg when properly equipped. The Ranger also comes with a variety of bed and cargo management features, such as a bed liner and a built-in cargo management system. Circling back to towing, the Ranger has a Tow Haul drive mode for use whilst towing or carrying heavy loads. It optimises gear shift timing to maintain best power delivery and engine braking and reduced shift busyness. 

As is the norm, the Ranger also comes with a variety of off-road features that make it well-suited for those off-road adventures. The bakkie comes with a 4×4 drivetrain and a variety of off-road modes, such as mud, sand, and rock. The Ranger also comes with a variety of suspension and tyre options, which allow you to customize your bakkie to meet your specific off-road needs.

With a growing list of over 200 factory-backed adventure, urban and commercial accessories, you will be able to personalise the Rangers to suit your unique lifestyle.

Overall, the new generation Ford Ranger is a versatile and capable bakkie that is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. With its rugged and durable construction, advanced technology, and powerful performance, the Ranger is a bakkie that can handle a wide range of tasks and activities. Whether you are looking for a truck for work or for play, the Ranger is a great choice.

Pricing for the new Ford Ranger starts at R486 600. But if you’re eyeing the Double Cab Wildtrak with the V6 engine, that will set you back R953 500.

Following the new Ranger’s debut, there’s a few things we’ve been more curious about than anything else, and that is all the tech found in the new bakkie.

One of the biggest changes inside the bakkie is the addition of a large portrait-mode touchscreen. Two varied sizes are available depending on the trim level, including a 10.1-inch and a 12-inch screen. The big screens go along with the fully digital instrument cluster. In addition, Ranger will also have an embedded FordPass modem providing connectivity to devices in the car and features such as remote starting, remote vehicle status reports, and the ability to lock and unlock the doors from a smartphone.

The large screen also gives drivers access to the 360-degree camera view in some models making parking easier and allowing drivers to see what’s going on around the vehicle when off-roading.

Other interesting touches for the new Ranger include zone lighting, which can be controlled using the Sync screen or the FordPass app. Zone lighting is a 360-degree lighting system around the truck designed to improve visibility. Lighting is also provided inside the cargo box underneath the left and right handrails to provide light for loading or unloading cargo.

Along with the development of the truck, Ford is also developing its own accessories and working with third parties like ARB. A full range of 150 factory-backed accessories for work and play will be available for the new Ranger.

Details such as availability and pricing should be offered closer to launch.

There is, for better or worse, a design language we expect from bakkies. While practicality is king, they also have to look burly and tough; we expect road presence and a sense of invulnerability, too. The original Ranger was odd-looking enough that the conversation instantly shifted to that love-it-or-hate-it appearance, but Ford’s third attempt – and with the XLT Double Cab deriv – was just close enough to a family SUV to be an outlier in its segment. Much like the Everest, or is it the other way around?

Ironically, of course, a family-minded bakkie is just what the Ranger always has been, and what it excels at. Driving one is a reminder that bakkies don’t need to be lumpy and coarse; they don’t need to wallow and flex across pockmarked asphalt. The Ranger’s issue was that it looked a little too much like the SUV it drove like, and so that’s what Ford has changed.

The 2021 Ranger FX4 gets a sporty black mesh grille up front. The grille is beefier and more dominant, with wider, scalloped mesh. It even looks like its more upright, too, between a set of LED daytime running headlamps, while the bonnet bulges to emphasize the standard 2.0l engine.

Other improvements include a set of 18-inch multi-spoke black alloy wheels, plus black mirrors and door handles, and – edging on a little too much for my tastes – various FX4 decals and emblems. Alternatively there are more practically-minded options packs, like the Ranger XL, XLS and XLT.

Pricing starts at R618 900 (4×2) and climbs to R687 900 for the 4×4 version.

The new garb hasn’t diluted the Ranger FX4’s core usability, though, and that’s what stands out most. Bakkies are a playground for automakers looking to throw in some cunning cubbies and tie-downs, but the Ford arguably got that first with its imaginatively usable extras. Like the drop-in bedliner which protects the bin from damage during everyday use, with six cargo tie-down points provided.

In addition there’s a practical 12-volt power socket is provided in the bedliner, which is ideal for powering a portable fridge or other accessories. Two further 12-volt sockets are located in the front of the cabin. It’s one of my favourite bakkie features.

Compared to the AWD systems on rival bakkies, the FX4 is positively space-age. On the road, it contributes significantly to how SUV-like the FX4 feels: planted and steady, with the suspension level and predictable, and none of that unexpected squirming some bakkies can suffer when they’re underloaded and you suddenly turn things up. The 10-speed automatic transmission is dependable and shifts with greater urgency if you tap the shifter into Sport mode.

I’m of a mind that, for the target audience – and, quite frankly, most bakkie drivers were they to buy with their head not their heart – this is more than enough. If your motivation to get a bakkie is for those occasional times you need to haul something, the FX4 will probably be up to the task. The rest of the time you can drive it as comfortably as you would around Hyde Park.

Step inside and you’ll notice, the changes are a little less dramatic. There’s new leather seats on this trim, and new red stitching accents on the dashboard, centre console, and steering wheel. Cubbies and bins aplenty ape the bed practicality, including a huge lidded central box and big door pockets. The second row gets plenty of legroom. Everything feels sturdy and reliable, though that’s not to say it’s uncomfortable or spartan.

The 8-inch SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard now. The FX4 has a high level of standard specification, including dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless Passive Entry and Passive Start, a rear-view parking camera, and front and rear sensors to aid manoeuvrability in tight parking spaces.

Like in the best makeover shows, you’re rooting from the FX4 from the start. Ford’s bakkies always had most of the practicality required to satisfy everyday drivers. What it lacked wasn’t ability but aesthetic, and don’t let anybody tell you bakkies buyers are any less swayed by that than those shopping for a sports car.

What stands out in the 2021 Ford Ranger FX4 is how comprehensively Ford has addressed that while avoiding diluting any of the bakkie’s underlying charm. It’s eminently drivable, leaves you no more tired when you slip from behind the wheel after a long journey than a Ranger might, and its on-road dynamics are a level above what most rivals bring to the table. Potential bakkie buyers who don’t genuinely consider it are doing themselves a disservice, and now they don’t have looks to excuse that oversight.

The tyre size (LT 285/70 R17 116/113 S) remains unchanged for the Ranger Raptor, with the LT (light truck) specification incorporating additional reinforcement for heavy-duty applications. According to Continental, this additional size was added to the local Grabber AT3 range during the development process with Ford, which bodes well for the replacement market as this identical tyre is also readily available off the shelf.

Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and Continental’s General Grabber AT3 are produced in Mzansi.

Technologies that make the Grabber AT3 stand out

• TracGen incorporates an open shoulder design, traction ridges for improved grip on all surfaces, and sipes arranged at different angles to enhance water dispersion properties for optimal wet grip and braking performance.
• DuraGen is a robust rubber compound that provides excellent cut and chip resistance and increases mileage in rough terrain, while reinforced tread blocks reduce deformation. This improves tread life in rugged terrain and maximises stability under load.
• ComfortBalance successfully overcomes the conflicting interests of on-road ride comfort and good off-road grip. T

Meet the Ford Ranger Thunder.

Announced this week, the performance bakkie borrows its brother’s (the Wildtrak) style and off-road ambition, but with high specification, optimised load hauling and tough four-wheel drive capability. Ford has made a few unusual decisions along the way with the Ranger Thunder, however: here are five facts you need to know (and most probably love).

There’s no huge petrol engine under the bonnet

For a sports bakkie, the Ranger Thunder sure does have a small engine. Ford has eschewed V6 or V8s, and opted instead for a mere 2.0-litre engine. Still, as you might have predicted, this is no ordinary engine.

It’s a bi-turbo, good for 157kW of power and 500Nm of torque. Ford has paired it with the same, 10-speed automatic transmission as in the Range and Raptor, with paddle-shifters and a manual override mode.

Those twin-turbos are mighty interesting

The usual formula with turbocharging is pretty straightforward: pump more air into the engine using a compressor, and increase efficiency and power output along the way. What Ford is doing in the Ranger Thunder, though, deserves some extra attention. It could well have some interesting implications for future EcoBoost models, after all.

Ford fits not one, but two to its 2.0-litre engine. The first is a smaller, high-pressure unit; it’s connected in sequence to a larger, low-pressure version. In-between there are bypass valves, and by opening and closing those, Ford can control which turbo is active at any point.

When the engine speed is low, both turbochargers can be active to boost torque and help avoid turbo-lag. It should make the Ranger Thunder more responsive, Ford says. When engine speeds are higher, however, the bakkie can bypass the smaller turbo, getting more power as a result.

The Ranger Wildtrak is its closest cousin

The 2020 Ranger Wildtrak is one of several trims that the bakkie is offered in, and it comes close to the Ranger Thunder in a number of ways.

Starting with a revised honeycomb-style front grille incorporating red accents for the side “nostrils”, which gives this new derivative a distinctly performance-oriented demeanour inspired by Ford’s sportiest models.

This is complemented by black detailing for the side mirror housings, and bold three-dimensional “Thunder” nomenclature at the base of the front doors and on the rear tailgate. The new 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are finished in black which adds to the Ranger Thunder’s assertive and sporty character. Additionally, the integrated sports hoop fitted as standard on Wildtrak models now gains a striking red insert that adds further stylistic flair.

It’s going to have some strong competition

If there’s one thing South Africans know, its how to appreciate a bakkie. They are big business, and performance bakkies make for a lucrative segment. So, the Ranger Thunder has some natural competition.

Probably the most obvious foe is the Toyota Hilux followed by the Mercedes X-Class, Volkswagen Amarok, Nissan Navara and Fiat Fullback.

Its priced competitively

The Ranger Thunder is priced at R711 600 for the 3.2l 4×2 while the 2.0l BiT 4×4 will set you back R787 000. Only in the double cab version.

There’s no doubt the Ford Ranger has been a huge success. In July this year over 6400 were sold between here in Mzansi , Europe, Middle East, the rest of Africa and plenty more around the world.

Part of the Ranger’s success is based on its tough looks as well as its real and perceived strength and ability as a load hauler, tow tug and off-roader. And along with this bakkie’s success comes a burgeoning aftermarket, as owners personalise their Rangers for that unique look. The marketers at Ford haven’t missed this and have started launching limited-edition variants with that customised look, enter the Ford Ranger FX4.

First Impressions Count

The FX4 special edition builds on the XLT with a black optics pack, some 18-inch ‘Stark Grey’ alloys, black roof rails and leather accented seats, monogrammed with the FX4 badge.

It’s hard to argue with the aesthetic. The FX4 looks squat and purposeful; the Magnetic Grey paint of our test car even delivering a degree of subtlety for a car that looks to have had most of Ford’s options list plastered to it. Given that the smallest price difference between mechanically-identical trims of the Ford Everest is about R20 000.

THAT the Ford Ranger is a better bakkie than the Toyota Hilux is a fact that takes some time to get used to. How do you go about beating the unbreakable legend? It turns out that doing the basics right like offering decent ride quality, a gutsy engine, strong value and keen utility are enough. It’s like Buster Douglas beating Mike Tyson by the simple expedient of stepping to the side to negate his bull-like power. Sometimes the most obvious solutions are hidden in plain sight.

The FX4 gets all the goodies from the XLT plus a whole bunch of black stuff including black bonnet and tailgate decal wraps, black roof rails, black roll bar, black rear bumper, side steps and door handles. There’s also a blacked-out grille, black exterior mirrors as well as 18-inch grey alloy wheels with a unique design and side decals with ‘FX4’ branding.

The black theme continues on the interior with black leather-trimmed seats, front and rear floor mats and black highlights on the dash. We love the Ford Ranger. Sure it’s expensive, but it offers buyers a real, hard-working vehicle with a grunty diesel that puts out 470Nm of torque and has a 3500kg towing ceiling.

It’s a comfortable cruiser on the highway whether loaded or empty, which is a lot to say for a one-tonne bakkie (the XLT’s payload is 995kg). It’s also pretty frugal, and although we couldn’t get near the claimed fuel economy of 8.7L/100km, we did achieve a figure under 10.1L/100km which is pretty good for a big bakkie with big outputs.

And the Ranger is loaded with technology. Gone are the days when a ute was just another tool of the tradie. The Ranger offers Ford’s SYNC 3 with voice-controlled sat-nav, which includes DAB radio, 8-inch colour touch screen, iPod and smartphone integration, reversing camera and front sensors. There are also rain-sensing wipers and a tyre pressure monitoring system, while an optional Tech Pack features forward collision alert, lane keeping assist, automatic high beam control and adaptive cruise control.

All up, it’s a modern and sophisticated vehicle that just happens to be in the guise of a bakkie.

If you’re after a 4WD dual-cab ute, the Ranger is hard to go past. The 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine combined with the six-speed auto gearbox is a real winner, and one of the best combinations on the market, arguably only bettered by the Volkswagen Amarok V6.

No matter what spec, the Ranger will haul loads, tow your boat or caravan, get you through the roughest tracks and yet do it all in comfort and with a bit of style. And if you want to stand out from the increasingly crowded Ranger car park, this could be the right jigger for you.

It’s available in four exterior colours: Frozen White, Ingot Silver, Magnetic and, of course, black.

Would I buy one? You bet. The FX4 will set you back R593 900 for the 3.2 TDCi Double Cab 6MT 4×4

It all started with the Model TT, which took a Model T cab, and stuck it on a heavy duty frame rated to carry one ton. It was sold in a chassis-cab configuration so that buyers could put on whatever type of bed or box was necessary. It was followed up by the Model AA, which increased the load capacity to 1.5 tons, and then the Model BB in 1933. In 1935, the Model 50 was introduced and was the first Ford truck with a V8.

The first of the F-Series trucks arrived for 1948. And while the F designation has remained, the first models had a more basic numbering system. The trucks started with the F-1, a contemporary F-150 equivalent, and went up to the ultra-heavy duty commercial trucks like the F-7. Tack a “50” onto the end of most of those names and you’ll have modern day F-Series trucks.

The naming scheme was tweaked in 1953 with the introduction of the F-100, and the Falcon-based Ranchero joined the line-up in 1957. Ford notes that it was at this time that trucks started getting basic amenities such as automatic transmissions, arm rests, and sun visors. Most of the rest of the F-truck story you know. 

In 1976, a copywriter for a Ford truck magazine advertisement wrote three simple words: Built Ford Tough, the phrase that would come to epitomise Ford’s commitment to creating strong, capable, safe and powerful bakkies. It now defines what customers across the world have come to expect from the Blue Oval brand.

One of the first mass-produced Built Ford Tough vehicles was the Ford Ranger, the company’s first compact bakkie introduced in North America in 1982.

Originally designed and built in the US, Ranger’s reputation as a tough, smart and capable vehicle quickly caught on, leading it to thrive in a number of diverse markets around the world. It is now the most bought midsize bakkie in Europe, South Africa, New Zealand, and a number of other key markets.

In South Africa, Ford first manufactured Ranger in 2001 at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria. The Ford Ranger is now South Africa’s favourite new vehicle, topping sales in both the light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment and the overall industry.

First Impressions

The setting is George, alongside the Garden Route we often read and hear about. The beach and sea views are majestic, as is the ride.  Unmistakably, the Ranger, doesn’t stray too far from Ford’s current design language from the outside at least. Heck, it is the exact model introduced to us earlier yesteryear. The headlamps are more interestingly shaped and the grille less slabbishly-rectangular, while the detailing on things like door handles and bumpers feels more considered.

Inside, the layout has not changed much; the dashboard has been left untouched versus yesteryear’s model, and it’s all the better for it. Broad window sills and armrests, a chunky steering wheel, and dedicated physical controls for the key features – all with sizable buttons and knobs – are welcome, particularly if you’re wearing gloves. Ford has tried to skirt a line between tech and usability in the center stack, and for the most part succeeds. There’s that 8-inch touchscreen from which all of the usual infotainment can be accessed, like multimedia, and it responds well, using a resistive touchscreen – again, for those wearing gloves – that’s still quick to react. However, it’s also a button-fest of a cabin, with something to press across most of the surfaces.

Still, there are some omissions in the mix. There’s no CarPlay or Android Auto, for instance, with Ford unable to tell us when they might be added. You can only have one Bluetooth device paired and active at any one time. Nonetheless, the cabin is a quiet, comfortable place to spend a road trip in. 

Depending on the cab you choose, there seems to be much more hip and shoulder space. You sit up high, of course, and visibility is great; Ford has kept the steering and seat adjustment to best suit you. The  seats are supportive and comfortable, although they’re not covered in leather. In the back, meanwhile, the rear seats fold up with surprising ease and leave a huge, flat-bottomed swathe of space for luggage.

The Innards and In Use

We spent our time with the 2.2 TDCi Double Cab XLT 4×2 (Auto) which retails from R396 900. And, In fact, Ford is preemptively crediting the 2.2 as keeping drivers (and the commercial word) in full-sized bakkies, no longer looking to step down in size in order to achieve better fuel-economy. With such weight resting on its metaphorical shoulders, then, it’s good that the 2.2 Auto is such a success on the road. Pulling away with the urgency you’d expect from a significantly larger engine, the combination of the Ranger’s lower center of gravity and easy steering quickly lull you into thinking you’re in something other than a double cab. 

In fact, the 2.2 4×2  handled both straights and corners with ease. On the former, it surges forward – admittedly with en empty bed – without hesitation, the low-end torque showing its worth. When we tackled some curvy stuff, however, there’s little of the body roll or sway you’d expect from a van. Understeer arrives eventually, but far later than you might predict it to, and when faced with sudden dips in the gravel road there was minor flex and twist.

In Closing

If you’ve got some serious load to haul along the way, though, there’s no denying that the new 2.2 auto’s capabilities are significant. The truck retains its poise even under heavy load. 

With final fuel economy figures coming in at 7.7l/100km, it’s still too early to crown this new range of autos the king of bakkies quite yet – in our books, that is. Nonetheless, it makes one of the strongest arguments as a load carrier for the everyman we’ve seen in the segment, with a combination of quality construction and thoughtful configuration that was only missing this 2.2 auto variation  to truly round out the range.

We South Africans also love family vehicles, which is why the double cab bakkie is such a popular choice on our roads. But if the double cab bakkie is a favourite South African vehicle, which model is the favourite favourite? With the sound knowledge from the guys at Imperial Auto, we had a look around at what is on offer, and came back with the Toyota Hilux, the Isuzu KB Double Cab and the Ford Ranger Double Cab at the top of the list.

Here’s why…

Toyota Hilux 2.7 VVT-I Raised Body DC Legend 45

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The Toyota Hilux 2.7 VVT-I Raised Body DC Legend 45 lives up to the long-established Hilux reputation for being as tough as nails, solid as a rock, hard-working and adventure-loving – and it does all of this while looking super-slick and sexy.
The vehicle is fitted standard with a stainless steel nudge bar with Legend 45 branding, and other cosmetic features include grey alloy wheels, a rear step-bumper with a towbar, combination leather seats with a matching steering wheel and colour-coded door handles.

4×4 models in the range deliver high capacity part-time four wheel drive, with Artificial Intelligence SHIFT Control on 4.0 litre AT models automatically adapting the shifting pattern according to road condition and driver intent.
Fitted with all the safety and security features that you would expect from a high-performance service vehicle, the Hilux Legend 45 comes with a three year/100,000km warranty and a five year/90,000km service plan.

Engine specs: 2.5l engine
Power: 118 kW @ 5,200 RPM
Torque: 241 NM @ 3,800 RPM
Fuel economy: 10.8 l/100km
CO2 emissions: 257 g/km
RRP: From R385,000

Isuzu KB Double Cab

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Isuzu has built a decades-long heritage of innovation, toughness, reliability, functionality and overall appeal, and its current double cab model, the Isuzu KB Double Cab, is the culmination of over four million kilometres of driving tests around the world, in conditions varying from Kalahari heat to North Pole snow.

The Isuzu KB Double Cab is a great choice whether you’re a city slicker or a bundu basher – or both – and offers towing capability of up to 3,500kg and a payload of up to 1142kg. This is in addition to its spacious, low-noise luxurious interior, and its bold-styled appealing exterior.

Five-speed automatic transmission engines are available in the LX models, and have a driver-select sequential shift for driving pleasure and operational flexibility. This contributes to its outstanding fuel economy too.
Rear park assist, ABS that supports electronic brakeforce distribution and up to six airbags show that safety is a priority in this vehicle, while its fuel-sipping engine offers best in class consumption at 7.7 litres per 100km.

Engine specs: 3.0l automatic
Power: 85kW @ 3,600 RPM
Torque: 280 NM @ 1,800 to 2,200
Fuel economy: 7.7 l/100km
CO2 emissions: from 203g/km
RRP: From R395,000

Ford Ranger Double Cab

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Available in nine models, the Ford Ranger Double Cab is tough and robust, allowing you to go where other vehicles can’t take you. Designed around the driver, the Ford Ranger comes with the latest entertainment and connectivity technology, while offering the workhorse power of 3,500 towing capability and the ability to ford water as deep as 800mm.

Designed to exceed expectations, the Ford Ranger meets your urban expectations, with a glove box large enough to hold your laptop computer, a cooled centre console, and under-seat stowage on selected models.

Safety features include ESP with seven different control systems, including traction control, trailer-sway assist, hill-launch assist and rollover mitigation, while all models have DIN-compliant load boxes, making your cargo just as safe as the passengers inside.

Optional extras that add to the vehicle’s appeal include running boards, heavy duty canvas seat covers, a second battery and tough steel bull bar, which incorporates mountings designed specifically for driving lights, antennas and flags.

Engine specs: 2.2 TDCi Manual, 2.5i Manual, 3.2 TDCi Manual or Auto
Power: 122kW @ 5,500 RPM (2.5i Manual)
Torque: 226 NM @ 4,500 RPM(2.5i Manual)
Fuel economy: 11.3 l/100km
CO2 emissions: 269g/km
RRP: From R454,900