While unlikely to go on sale in SA, the Ford Ranger MS-RT is one of the best-looking iterations of the new bakkie and we hope it inspires a local creation.
Created by Ford Pro in Europe, the Ranger MS-RT (M-Sport Road Technology), features a sporty re-design both inside and out, improved workhorse capabilities and sportier drive.
Visually, we think this is one of the best-looking Ford Rangers and while everyone loves the outrageous Raptor, this runs it very close in the design stakes. At the front, there’s a splitter and honeycomb grille which Ford Pro says is inspired by the Ranger racing series in Asia. The Ford Ranger MS-RT sits lower to the ground and there’s a neat integrated diffuser and spoiler at the rear. These aren’t just for show and there are aerodynamic benefits like additional stability.
The Ford Ranger MS-RT is also 82 mm wider and has its track width increased by 40 mm. The 21-inch diamond-cut wheels are wrapped in 275/45 R21 rubber. While it shares the same 4×4 system as the standard Rangers, the suspension has been enhances for a more dynamic drive.
Climb inside and there are new sports seats and extensive stitching in that lovely shade of Ford blue. Standard equipment like the dual-zone climate control, iPad-style infotainment system, digital instrument cluster have been carried over.
Interestingly, the Ranger MS-RT is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel engine making 176 kW and 600 Nm, but instead of the 10-speed automatic that does duty in the standard Ranger, there’s an 8-speed automatic ‘box.
Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Pro Europe, said: “If Ranger Raptor is the ultimate off-road truck, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate street truck.
As mentioned, the Ranger MS-RT will be sold in European markets, but that’s not going to stop us admiring it! C’mon Ford Motor Company South Africa, make us a sweet body kit for our Rangers?
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