Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.0 launched: What is new?

The Wildtrak name is reserved for the top of the range flagship model of the Ford Ranger. While the larger 3.2L Wildtrak has already been in Malaysia since 2015, its smaller (or shall we say less large) sibling has landed on our shores just a few weeks back.

There was another limited version of the Wildtrak launched in 2017 called the Jet Black which sold for RM 1,41,588 compared to the normal Wildtrak which goes for an asking price of RM 1,39,838. The 2.2, on the other hand, sells for RM 1,28,000.

Not surprisingly, this is one of the better selling models of the Range in its existing markets. It brings a touch of much-needed exclusivity in one of the most mass-produced vehicles in the world. So, what do you get for this price? On top of the Ranger T6 XLT 4×4 High Rider variant, it gets everything that the 3.2L Wildtrak gets. This means a lot of safety equipment that does not feature on the normal 2.2. This includes active safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping assist, adjustable speed limiter, rear view camera and surprisingly forward collision alert system.

The Wildtrak name brings with itself Wildtrak themed interior furnishings including premium upholstery with leather inserts and contrasting orange stitching. Read many embroidered badges saying Wildtrak. This stitching also finds its way on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter, and dashboard. Together this gives it a luxurious feel. Although this is not something that you can clean with a hose anymore.

Wildtrak graphics package also include truck’s color scheme with metallic grey elements. This means that everything from the brawny grille and bumper extension to the wing mirrors, side air vents, door handles, bed rails and tail light internals are finished in the same dark grey color scheme. There are also some special 18-inch alloy wheels thrown in for good measure. There are three color schemes too - Pride Orange, Cool White or Shadow Black.

While the standard equipment for the 2.2 XLT is still present, automatic dual-zone air-conditioning, eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, cooled console box, 240-volt inverter power socket, and Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system are also included. This too was first featured on the 3.2 Wildtrak and includes an 8-inch touchscreen hooked up to six speakers and integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Combine that with the already extremely practical interior of the Ranger and you have a very practical and comfortable interior.

The safety features from the XLT also appear here, giving it ABS, EBD with brake assist, ESC, hill descent control and hill launch assist. Thankfully the standard two airbags in the front are now complemented by two on the side and two on the curtains bringing the count to six. This level of safety is very welcome and should be made more easily approachable across the model range.
The engine is the same as before on the XLT. It is a 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi turbodiesel producing the same 158 hp at 3,200 rpm and 385 Nm in the 1600 to 2600 rpm rev range. The transmission is the same too - a 6R80 six-speed automatic.

As already said above the Ranger 2.2L WildTrak 4×4 High Rider is priced at RM127,888 (on-the-road without insurance). It also comes with a three-year or 100000 km warranty. At this price, it might seem expensive. But then so is any other comparable pickup truck from other car makers. And for the price you pay, you get the best of rugged and reliable utility and the best of luxury and convenience.