Ford 2018 Ranger XLT undergoes assessment in extensive Wheels Ute Megatest, securing the second spot.
==================================================================
In the competitive Australian market, the 2018 Ford Ranger stands out as a top choice for both work and recreational users. This is due to its combination of locally tailored design and engineering, impressive capability, reliability, and user-friendly technology that directly suits Australian terrain and use cases.
Australian Design and Engineering
The 2018 Ranger was developed with Australian conditions in mind, evident in its strong performance off-road and on tough local roads. Its suspension is tuned to handle rough and ungraded gravel roads with ease, providing both softness and control that is well-suited for the varied Australian terrain.
Durability and Capability
The Ranger offers a solid, rugged build capable of heavy towing (2500kg caravan tested), making it reliable for demanding work applications. It has excellent off-road hardware and adaptive driving modes that simplify four-wheel driving for users unfamiliar with complex setups.
Performance
The diesel turbocharged engine delivers strong torque, and the vehicle outperforms rivals in acceleration and drivability. It combines this with a comfortable ride, even without a load in the tray.
Advanced Yet Practical Technology
Features like the front-view camera and preset off-road modes enhance safety and ease of use for both experienced and nervous off-road drivers. While early model years had some driveline vibration and transmission issues, these were addressed through service updates, showing Ford’s commitment to refinement.
Market Success
Its consistent top sales performance in Australia highlights its popularity and trust among buyers, reflecting a blend of toughness, versatility, and relevance to local needs.
Additional Features
The Ranger's interior is praised for its functionality, appealing layout, and big, brawny design. The second row offers most of the amenities tradies or teenagers could wish for. Ford's NVH engineers have ensured that the in-line five-cylinder engine has little noise or vibration at idle. The Ranger's acceleration and transmission action are praised for their responsiveness.
In addition, Ford has shown warranty innovation by boosting coverage to five years/unlimited kilometres. The Ranger's voice-control system in SYNC3 is excellent, and its seats, driving position, and controls are intuitive and well-weighted.
In summary, the 2018 Ford Ranger's local design, robust capability, user-friendly off-road tech, and strong performance tailored to Australian conditions explain why it is a standout performer and Australia’s favourite dual-cab ute.
- The resilient and versatile 2018 Ford Ranger, popular in Australia, is also a notable vehicle in the transportation industry, with its impressive performance in off-road conditions and heavy-duty towing capacity (2500kg) making it suitable for both work and sports environments.
- In the realm of finance, the Ranger's five-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty, coupled with its Advanced Technology features like SYNC3 voice-control system, provide a sense of security andmodern convenience that aligns with the evolving lifestyle demands of car owners.
- The combination of the 2018 Ford Ranger's diesel engine performance, acceleration, and drivability, along with its practical and appealing interior design, has made it a leading choice in the automotive sector, appealing to a wide array of users, from tradespeople to sports enthusiasts.