BIMS 2023: Ford Ranger Stormtrak is a Wildtrak on steroids

The Everest Wildtrak wasn’t the only vehicle that made its presence felt at the 2023 Bangkok International Motor Show. The brand with the Blue Oval also revealed the 2023 Ford Ranger Stormtrak.

Serving as a bridge between the already capable Ranger Wildtrak and the fast and furious Ranger Raptor, the Ranger Stormtrak is essentially a sportier version of the former but gets more features, unique decals/badges, as well as a customized interior.

Beginning with the exterior changes, Ford gave the Stormtrak its own unique black grille along with auxiliary lights housed within the grille itself (near the C-Clamp LED headlights). It also comes with body decals that are different from the Wildtrak and Raptor variants. These can be seen on the lower section of the doors and rear quarter panels.

Helping the Stormtrak stand out more are the 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in bigger 255/55/R20 tires. Aside from having a special design, it also comes with a red accent that gives it a sportier appearance. Last but not least is the Flexible Rack System (FRS) which comes as standard on the Stormtrak. First revealed late last year, the FRS makes it easier to load long items.

Inside, the leather seats are embroidered with the “Stormtrak” logo to remind everyone they are in something special. There’s also a revised color scheme throughout the cabin that emphasizes the eye-catching red accents. Like the rest of the Ranger lineup, the Stormtrak gets a digital instrument cluster and the tablet-inspired 12-inch touchscreen infotainment. It runs on the latest SYNC 4A software and supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, and navigation.

Other notable features inside the 2023 Ranger Stormtrak are the e-shifter and the full-time AWD system (with Terrain Management System) which the Wildtrak lacks. It even gets the intelligent Active Park Assist which can automatically park the pickup.

At the heart of the 2023 Ranger Stormtrak is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine. Like the Wildtrak, the motor puts out a healthy 210 PS along with a meaty 500 Nm of torque. Power goes to a 10-speed automatic transmission which serves as its sole gearbox option.

With Ford Philippines yet to bring the all-new Ranger Raptor to the market, perhaps the Blue Oval can offer the Stormtrak for those who want something more capable (and high-tech) than the Wildtrak. And since it also comes with the Flexible Rack System, those who like to carry long loads will find that feature invaluable.