Ford Ranger Sport Review: The New Feature-Packed Bakkie Slots in Between the XLT & Wildtrak
With its combination of capability, modern technology, muscular styling and everyday versatility, the Ford Ranger continues to be one of South Africa’s most popular bakkies. The popularity of the Ranger badge has a lot to do with the wide range of choice in the lineup. There’s a Ranger for everyone; starting with the workhorse XLT model up to the performance-based Raptor model.
Now, Ford is giving South Africans even more choice with the new Ford Ranger Sport. Delivering new dynamics to the Ranger badge, the Ranger Sport is one of the most notable additions to the updated line-up. The new derivative slots in strategically between the popular XLT and the rugged-premium Wildtrak models.
Designed for customers seeking a dual-purpose and feature-packed Ranger, the Ranger Sport is available in Super Cab and Double Cab configurations, offering customers a choice of powertrains depending on their preferences and needs. The versatile Super Cab derivative offers drivers a great balance between load capability with additional practicality you’ll love.
The 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine is offered in 4×2 specification, while the 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine is paired with a 4×4 drivetrain for maximum capability and performance. Both variants are equipped with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive performance.
Starting from R735, 000 for the Sport 2.3L 10AT 4X2 Super Cab, the Sport’s pricing is a far cry from the XLT 2.0L SiT 10AT 4X2 Super Cab that clocks in at R655, 000. The higher spec XLT 2.0L SiT 10AT 4X4 sits just below the Sport at R731, 000 while the next jump up in price sees the Sport 3.0L V6 10AT 4WD at R825, 000 followed by the Wildtrak 3.0L V6 4WD at R865, 000.
Given its features and capabilities, this makes the new Ranger Sport a compelling prospect for drivers wanting a little more Ranger without having to splash out for the flashier Wildtrak model.
Behind the wheel of the Ford Ranger Sport
I had the Ford Ranger sport on test for a week and was impressed with this new addition to the line-up. The 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in our test vehicle delivered an athletic on-road performance. The drive feels smooth and refined and stays true to the performance you’d expect from the Ford Ranger. I took the vehicle on a few long drives along the coast and it’s the long road where it truly shines.
The bakkie offers a commanding presence on the road, along with a long list of safety features, giving you the confidence to ensure you get to your destination safely. Overtaking, tackling steep inclines, and changing road conditions feel like a breeze in the Ranger, making it a pleasure to drive whether you’re just popping down the road to do some light admin or are hitting the highway for a weekend getaway.
In terms of safety and driving features, the Ranger Sport offers 7 airbags (dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee), Thatcham alarm system, front and rear parking sensors with a 360° camera for easy parking and maneuvering. You also get Ford’s Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) incorporating ABS, Load Adaptive Control, Roll Over Mitigation, Traction Control, and Trailor Sway Control. Driver assist features include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop/Go and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Inside, the cabin is comfortable and spacious with all the creature comforts you need. The 12-inch infotainment screen acts as the center of operations for the vehicle while Ford has opted to keep tactile buttons for quick access to control the aircon and media volume. The AC system offers Dual Electronic Air Temperature Control (DEATC) and rear aircon vents to ensure all passengers are comfortable throughout every journey.
Plus, with a full-sized load bin paired with a manual roller shutter you have all the space you need to transport a family of four and all their belongings safely and securely no matter where you’re heading. Having the option of the roller shutter and easy-lift tailgate makes such a big difference to the day-to-day and travel use of the Ranger Sport. It’s such a versatile car for families who love the bakkie lifestyle but who still need and want the comforts an SUV provides.
Ford owners also get access to what Ford calls the “Ford Family Promise” when it comes to scheduled maintenance. The service gives vehicle owners perks at Ford’s national dealer network across South Africa to help optimise customer convenience. This includes online service bookings, 60-minute Express Service, free vehicle pick-up and delivery as well as mobile servicing in selected areas.
Prices for the Ford Ranger Sport derivatives are as follows:
Super Cab
Sport 2.3L 10AT 4X2 – R735 000
Sport 3.0L V6 10AT 4WD – R825 000
Double Cab
Sport 2.3L 10AT 4X2 – R839 600
Sport 3.0L V6 10AT 4WD – R995 000
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