Yes, 2023 Ford Ranger is also available as a work truck
Ford Thailand reveals entry-level Ranger XL variant
When Ford revealed the all-new Ranger late last year, almost everyone was surprised by how good it looked. From its F-150-like face, wider track, longer bed, and a wide array of 4WD technologies, the all-new Ranger has been significantly upgraded from the T6 generation.
Since it now looks more like a chiseled SUV rather than a pick-up truck, some of you might be wondering if the 2023 Ranger has moved away from its utilitarian roots. Fortunately, the Blue Oval has not forgotten the pickup truck's original purpose, to haul and serve as a work truck.
After seeing the all-new pickup in Raptor, Wildtrak, and XLT variants, Ford has also revealed the XL variant of the Ranger. Recently revealed in Thailand, the pickup truck is available in single cab and extended cab body styles. The result is a longer bed that can carry more cargo compared to the double cab variants.
Size-wise, the standard XL measures 5350mm long, 1910mm wide, and 1778mm tall. Meanwhile, the extended (AKA Open Cab) is 5370mm long, 1918mm wide, and 1769mm tall. Both trucks have 180mm of ground clearance although there are also lifted versions of the two. The result is a taller pick-up truck that stands 1880mm and 1874mm, respectively. Standard ground clearance for the non-lifted variant is 180mm while the raised versions have 235mm of ground clearance.
In true work truck fashion, the XL has 16-inch steel wheels, unpainted front and rear bumpers (painted units are optional), unpainted side mirrors and wheel arches, halogen headlights, bulb-type taillights, and a standard grille.
Under the hood, the Ranger XL comes with a 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbo-diesel inline-four. It has a maximum output of 150 PS at 3500 rpm along with 350 Nm of torque at 1500 – 2750 rpm. Power is then sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.
Despite the XL variant serving as the entry-level version of the Ranger, the work truck is equipped with several niceties. These include a 10.1-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, 8-inch digital instrument panel, 2 USB ports, remote key, power windows, audio controls on the steering wheel, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. In terms of safety, the Ranger XL comes with anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and dual front airbags.
With the Ranger XL already in Thailand, could Ford Philippines also offer the all-new pickup as a regular work truck? Perhaps, but that will depend on how the automaker will package and market the T6.2 Ranger. After all, the pickup truck is now more popular as a lifestyle vehicle in the country.
