Bundu-bashing in the all new Ford Ranger XL Sport

Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

We drove up and down some treacherous mountain passes, including the famed Orrie Baragwanath Pass, which is some 1,370m above sea level. And yes, we drove to the top, sometimes across huge puddles of water, over boulders and punishing gravel roads.

Driving up and then down the Orrie Baragwanath Pass was daunting indeed. Both man and machine had to be in sync with one another as one slip could have been very dangerous. This double-cab derivative was versatile indeed. Glad to report that the Ford Ranger XL Sport delivered exactly what it was asked to do.

Looking good

Aesthetically, the Ford Ranger XL Sport is pleasing to the eye with 17" black alloy wheels, black gloss grille and tubular sports bar. The side step-on sills also added to the good looks of this double-cab derivative.

Ford has significantly boosted the appeal of the Ranger XL line-up with the launch of an enticing range of new options comprising an attractive Sport Pack, useful side steps and an eight-inch touchscreen display for the infotainment system that can be easily paired to your Apple or Android cellular phone. Everything on your phone gets mirrored to the screen. The system features a large eight-inch full-colour touchscreen display.

Although it makes do without embedded voice recognition and navigation, it remains a feature-packed offering. It also supports phone calls from a Bluetooth-connected device, text-to-speech for messages and Wi-Fi hotspot compatibility. Two USB slots provide additional multimedia connection options.

Value and versatility

The addition of the Sport Pack option gives the Ford Ranger XL more upmarket flair while enhancing its day-to-day practicality. Visually, Ranger XL models equipped with the Sport Pack are distinguished by an eye-catching gloss black grille that replaces the plain black version used on the standard models.

Image credit: Naresh Maharaj

The same exclusive theme continues to the wheel and tyre choice, as the normal 16" silver alloy wheels are upgraded to 17" Panther gloss black cast alloy rims with larger diameter 265/65 R17 tyres. In keeping with its more dynamic appearance, customers can also opt for the dealer-fitted black side steps that greatly improve access to the cabin – whether using the vehicle on a work site or loading up the family for a weekend of adventure.

Safety, safety, safety

In addition to the expanded options, the Ranger XL is equipped with an impressive list of standard features. The safety package comprises ABS brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist (HLA), Roll-over Mitigation, Adaptive Load Control and Trailer Sway Control.

The four-wheel-drive models gain Hill Descent Control (HDC), with a rear diff-lock fitted as standard on all 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives. All Ranger XL models are fitted with a tow bar as standard equipment. Dual front airbags are fitted across the board.

It's a 2.2 litre

The Ranger XL is powered by Ford’s proven, economical 2.2l four-cylinder Duratorq TDCi engine which produces 118kW of power, along with 385Nm of torque from 1,500 to 2,500r/min.

The Single Cab and SuperCab models are available in two and four-wheel drive specification mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed automatic in the 4x2 derivative. The Ranger XL Double Cab can be specified in 4x2 or 4x4 versions, with both available in manual or automatic.

Recommended retail price

• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XL 6MT 4x2 - R462,900
• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XL 6MT 4x4 - R520,900
• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XL 6AT 4x2 - R485,900
• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XL 6AT 4x4 - R543,000
• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XLS 6MT 4x2 - R517,000
• Ranger 2.2 TDCI Double Cab XLS 6AT 4x4 - R589,500

All Ford Rangers that are new come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120,000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included which covers six services. The recommended service interval is 15,000km or annually, whichever occurs first.