The newly facelifted
Ford Ranger includes enhancements that go more than skin deep. A
new engine and suspension tweaks make this more than your run-of-the-mill
mid-lifecycle freshening.
First up in
the improved Ranger lineup is the Ranger Edge - a limited production
version of
the Ranger aimed at the GenX / Xtreme sport set. Ford Presiden Jim
O' Connor states that with this addition to the Ranger lineup Ford
is responding to the demand of, "customers with active lifestyles
(who) seek a vehicle that features driving and performance versatility.
We are responding...by offering a Ranger that is tough, athletic
and on the edge."
The Ranger
Edge sports a new mesh grille, reminiscent of a cross between the
current full size F-Series and Explorer Sport Trac, blending nicely
into the prominent chin and integrated foglights in the front bumper.
Revised headlights, mono-chromatic paint and a 'Power Dome' hood
all combine to provide aggressive visual styling elements that cue
the Edge is different. From the A-pillar back the rest of the truck
is almost an exact duplicate of the 2000 Ford Ranger. Pickup box
rail protectors and 16-inch five spoke wheels also set this truck
apart. A bed extender and two piece front lockable tonneau cover
is also optional.
The Edge offers
a brand new optional 4.0L V6 SOHC engine that pumps out 205 horsepower
and 235 ft-lb. of torque providing the power to reinforce the muscular
looks it wears. With the new V6 the Edge will be able to tow up
to 5,640 pounds. The 4.0 only comes with an automatic transmission
but buyers can choose a 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain. Of special note is
that 4x2 version of the Edge has the same ride height as the 4x4.
Standard engine
on the Edge is Ford's tried and true 3.0L V6, which arrives with
either a manual or automatic transmission, producing 150 horsepower
and 185 ft.-lbs of torque.
Looking at
the rest of the Ranger lineup, a new 2.5L inline four cylinder engine
will be offered as an option on regular cab 4x2 trucks starting
in November. The smaller engine is rated at 119 horsepower and 146
ft.-lbs. of torque.
The chassis
on all the Rangers has been revised including a new suspension up
front. Every truck now comes with standard ABS.
In the interior
new fabric is used in the seats and side door body molding has been
revised. The Edge shares the same washable floor as found in the
Explorer Sport Trac.
