Ford’s canvassing of its customer base didn’t stop at the styling. This truck is very much a piece of equipment so knowing is half the battle. “We know our customers are looking for a smart and functional interior space that feels comfortable,” Tran follows.
“So, we set about designing it with a high level of well-integrated technology, clever functional storage and visual cues so the environment feels comfortable and spacious. You’ll find the interior plush but with the dual purpose of work and play in mind.”
Sat as standard in the centre stack is a new 10.1-inch touchscreen, upgradable to 12 inches as an option, alongside a fully digital instrument cluster. Both are complete with Ford’s SYNC infotainment and are FordPass capable, allowing you to lock, unlock and even start your Ranger via the app on your phone. The drive mode selection has also moved from a physical dial into a menu in the screen which is, Ford says, easily accessible. There’s also a new 360-degree camera system for easier parking.
Needless to say, there are more storage bins in this cabin than a Lamborghini has cylinders. If there’s something you can’t stow away safely or charge in here, it probably belongs in the bed, which incidentally has its own new bedliner, extra tie-down points and a new cargo management system.
“Ranger continues to go from strength to strength in Europe with record-breaking sales,” adds Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe.
“The smartest, most capable, most versatile Ranger yet will deliver even more of the strength and style that we know customers value.”
Sounds promising. When can you have one? Well, probably not quite as soon as you’d hope. Order books open in Europe in late 2022, for an early 2023 delivery. Oh well, at least we have time to dream of the Lightning and a Baja-bashing Raptor version...