2018 Ford Ranger Review

Detailed Review

The first generation Mazda-based Ranger was manufactured from 1998 to 2006, and the second model was manufactured from 2006 to 2011. The T6 model was introduced in 2011 and has been in production since then. Ford Australia created it, and it is based on the Mazda BT-50 platform.

The 2018 Ford Ranger comes with two engine options; a 2.2 L (Diesel) and a 3.2 L (Diesel) which are coupled to a 6-speed manual and 10-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2018 Ford Ranger Buyer’s Guide. 

2018 Ford Ranger Body Configurations

1. Ford Ranger Regular Cab
2. Ford Ranger Super Cab
3. Ford Ranger Double Cab

2018 Ford Ranger Grades

1. XL 2.2 HI- RIDER (4×2)- This entry grade comes with an engine immobilizer, cruise control, power steering, rear window demister, and AUX/USB input socket.
2. XL 2.2 LOW RIDER (4×2)- This grade boasts Bluetooth connectivity, carpet floor covering, limited slip differential, and parking distance control front.
3. XL 2.2 (4×4)- This grade is fitted with anti-lock braking, brake assist, daytime running lights, and a traction control system.
4. XLS 2.2 HI- RIDER (4×2)- This grade is equipped with heated front seats, power windows, power mirrors, and dynamic stability control.
5. XL 2.2 (4×4)- This grade has a 12-volt power outlet, an MP3-compatible audio player, a central locking remote, and a forward collision warning.
6. XLS 2.2 (4×2)- This grade comes with a multi-function control screen, alarm system, a leather steering wheel, and a parking distance control rear.
7. XLS 2.2 (4×4)- This grade is fitted with cruise control, rearview mirror auto-dimming, and dusk-sensing headlights.
8. XLT 3.2  HI- RIDER (4×2)- This grade boasts a rollover mitigation system, child seat anchor points, emergency assist, and a tow bar.
9. XL 3.2 PLUS (4×4)- This grade is equipped with a memory card reader, climate control, an adjustable speed limiter, rear privacy glass, and a Radio CD with six speakers.
10. XL 3.2 (4×4)- This grade has a lane-changing warning, lane-keeping assist, Apple car play, emergency stop signal, side steps, and front & rear mud flaps.
11. XLT 3.2 HI-RIDER (4×2)- This grade comes with a trailer stability control, rain-sensing wipers, ambient temperature display, 18-inch alloy wheels, and Android Auto.
12. XL 3.2 PLUS (4×4)- This grade is fitted with chrome exterior door handles, active high beam control, an alloy sports bar, satellite navigation, and a reverse camera.
13. XLS 3.2 (4×4)- This grade has driver fatigue detection, body-colored front bumper, ambient interior lighting, roof racks, cruise control, and Bluetooth connectivity.
14. XLT 2.0 HI- RIDER (4×2)- This grade boasts a dynamic stability control, a 12-volt power outlet, a central locking remote control, and a forward collision warning.
15. FX4 SPECIAL EDITION- This grade has a multi-function control screen, power windows, heated front seats, and Bluetooth connectivity.
16. WILDTRAK 3.2 (4×4)- This grade is fitted with a tow bar, parking distance control, memory card reader, emergency assist, and climate control.
17. WILDTRAK 2.0 (4×4)- This grade comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, ambient temperature lighting, Android Auto, an Alloys sports bar, satellite navigation, and a reversing camera.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The interior of the 2018 Ford Ranger is smart, functional, and comfortable, with an elevated driver’s seat and low windows and dashboard.

The double cabin’s first row has plenty of headroom and legroom, as well as reclining seats for a comfortable posture. There is plenty of knee and foot room in the second row of the double cabin.

Although the seats do not recline, the front row of the single cabin has plenty of head and legroom.

The super cab’s front row is quite roomy, featuring reclining seats. There is also a small second row with limited legroom, knee room, and headroom. It is not intended to carry people, especially over long distances.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Ford Ranger has multiple-compartment storages that can be utilized to store or keep goods belonging to passengers in the cabin.

The single cabin’s front row includes a glovebox, door pockets, and two cupholders. The super cab’s front row includes a center console, two cupholders, a glovebox, and door pockets. The relatively small second row has door pockets, and there is an additional deep compartment beneath the seats.

The double cabin’s front row includes a center console, a glovebox compartment, two cupholders, and door pockets. Jacket pockets, two cupholders mounted on the armrest, and door pockets are available in the second row.

Boot Space

The 2018 Ford Ranger’s load bed is measured at 1,549mm long by 1,560mm wide, and loads are kept more secure by the 511mm high side walls.

Exterior

The 2018 Ford Ranger has a new aggressive and muscular design that suits its large stature.

The front end has a large grille with the Ford logo on it, giving it an assertive appearance. The headlights are perfectly placed and add to the dynamic appearance. Depending on the owner’s preference, a bull bar can be added to enhance its ruggedness and a the same time protect its body components as it traverses off-road terrians.

The side steps on the double and super cabs make boarding and exiting the vehicle easier. In the back, taillights and turn signals can be spotted. There’s also a large tailgate and a tow bar. A roof spoiler can also be placed on the Ranger to improve aerodynamics and also lend it some sporty looks.

2018 Ford Ranger Safety Features

The 2018 Ford Ranger SRS Airbags(driver, front passenger, side thorax, side curtain, driver’s knee) Electronic Stability Control(ESC), Emergency Brake Lights, Emergency Brake Assist(EBA), Load Adaptive Control(LAC), Hill Descent Control(4×4 only), Hill Start Assist(4×4 only), Trailer Sway Control, and a Roll Over Mitigation (ROM).

2018 Ford Ranger Fuel Consumption

2018 Ford Ranger 2.2 L diesel engine consumption- 15.0 km/l on average

2018 Ford Ranger 3.2 L diesel engine consumption- 11.8 km/l on average

2018 Ford Ranger Acceleration

2018 Ford Ranger 2.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 14.6 secs

2018 Ford Ranger 3.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.4 secs

2018 Ford Ranger Fuel Tank Capacity: 80 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Ford Ranger has a ground clearance of 9.1 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Body components are a little pricey and sometimes difficult to find for they are not available in major towns.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Ford Ranger offers a pleasurable driving experience.

The steering wheel responds well to road curvature and is especially useful when approaching tight corners at high speeds. Passengers in the interior are properly shielded from road noise and unpredictable vibrations.

Off-road, the Ranger performs similarly well. Despite its heavy chassis, the Ford feels agile off-road because of an outstanding 4WD system (2Hi, 4Hi, and 4Low) that works in tandem with electronic stability control and traction control.

There is also hill descent control, but because the first gear ratio is so low, it can still descend hills at a manageable speed. Its approach angle is fairly low, but the departure angle is among the best in the pick-up categories.

This truck also has rollover protection and trailer sway control.

Reliability

The 2018 Ford Ranger is regarded as a dependable pickup truck. Fuel injector troubles are among the most commonly reported problems associated with this vehicle, so regular repair and maintenance are strongly advised to avoid such issues. Click here to purchase the 2018 Ford Ranger Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Fair

Ford Ranger Competitors: Mitsubishi L200, Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, Mazda BT-50, Volkswagen Amarok, Nissan Hardbody, and Isuzu D-MAX.

What we like about the 2018 Ford Ranger

Cabin layout and infotainment system

Ride, handling, and engine refinement

What we don’t

Spare components are difficult to come by

Conclusion

The 2018 Ford Ranger offers good off-road capability, respectable driving manners, and a decent load area with excellent towing capacity. However, its body components are pricey and difficult to find. People residing in the metropolis can also use it to commute to work as its exterior design is also fancy and inspires confidence. Individuals on a tight budget may not be able to buy the Ranger owing to its high purchasing price.