More autos for Ranger

From July, fans of the Ford Ranger can expect even more choice when they step into Ford showrooms, as the brand’s six-speed automatic transmission will feature on the 2,2-litre Duratorq TDCi models for the first time.

“The success of the automatic transmission option on the Ford Ranger is unprecedented, with almost 70 percent of buyers opting for the auto instead of the manual in the powerful 3,2-litre models,” says Tracey Delate, general marketing manager, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

Growing customer interest for an automatic transmission with the smaller four-cylinder engine has prompted the company to oblige. A total of nine 2.2 TDCi Auto variants will be offered, boosting the revised Ranger line-up to a total of 36 models.

“This will give the Ranger even greater appeal, as it’s one of the first pick-ups in the light commercial vehicle segment to offer an automatic transmission on the smaller-capacity intermediate derivatives,” Delate continues.

Customers will be able to select from all three trim and specification levels in the case of the Ranger Double Cab 2.2 Auto, comprising the entry-level XL, the mid-range XLS and the top-end XLT. The Single Cab and Super Cab can be specified in XL and XLS guises for the 2.2 Auto.