Ford Ranger Wildtrak X: Aimed at the off-road adventurer
The new Ford Ranger has been around for a little while now, which means we've reached the stage where Ford starts to introduce special edition versions. One such example is this, the Wildtrak X. It's a more off-road-oriented Ranger with some practical changes to suit, priced in between the Wildtrak and the Raptor. So if you're a 4×4 enthusiast who spends more time on rough roads than not, but aren't keen on the more expensive (and less fuel efficient) Raptor, then this might just be for you.
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By Miles Downard
Off-Road Capabilities: Ready for Adventure
On the outside, the Ranger Wildtrak X features a distinctive new grille, steel bash plate and aluminium side steps. But its underneath the surface that features further changes that set this apart from a standard Wildtrak. It has a 30mm wider stance, while ground clearance has risen by 26mm. A set of unique Bilstein Position-Sensitive dampers keeps the body control in check and the General Grabber all terrain tyres in contact with the road surface.
With Ford's on-demand four-wheel drive system, the Wildtrak X can be driven in 4A (automatic) on high-traction surfaces, with the system continuously distributing power between the front and rear axles. One can also select 2H for on-road driving, as well as four-wheel drive high-range (4H) and low-range (4L) for more challenging off-road terrain. In these last two modes, the Wildtrak X pioneers Ford's Trail Turn Assist, which reduces the vehicle's turning radius by up to 25 percent. This complements Trail Control system, first seen on the Ranger Raptor, which automatically manages the vehicle's acceleration and braking in challenging terrain.
Beneath the bonnet of the Wildtrak X lies a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine, generating 154kW and 500Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 10 speed automatic transmission, the powertrain provides okay fuel consumption (I averaged just under 10l/100km) and adequate amounts of grunt.
Cargo Flexibility: Tailored for Your Needs
One of the standout features of the Ranger Wildtrak X is a sliding load rack. It can be locked into five positions along the length of the load bed and folding roof racks that store inside the roof rails when not in use. Whether you're hauling camping equipment for a weekend adventure or transporting materials for a job site, this system offers adaptability to accommodate various cargo shapes and sizes above the load bin.
During our test drive, we put the flexible rack load bay system through its paces, loading it up with everything from camping gear, to bicycles and ladders. The ease of adjustment allowed us to tailor the setup to suit each load, ensuring that everything stayed in place even over rough terrain.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside the Ranger Wildtrak X you're met with a unique Cyber Orange accented colour scheme that sets it apart from rest of the Ranger range. The familiar 12 inch touchscreen from the Wildtrak remains as the infotainment provider, with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. This extends into the 8 inch digital dashboard that is configurable to your liking. With ample legroom and storage options, passengers ride in comfort in the Ranger Wildtrak X.
Conclusion: A Compelling Option for Adventure Seekers
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak X delivers a great combination of versatility, style, and off-road performance. Priced at R1,040,600 I think the raft of upgrades over the standard Wildtrak make it a compelling option for what is perhaps quite a niche buyer. But it's compelling nonetheless.
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