A U T O B U Z Z     S P E C I A L

Ford Motor Company is the most recognizable name in the tough truck business…their F-150 for example has been the undisputed leader in US vehicle sales for the past 21 years!  However, the American company has always played catch-up against its Japanese competitors in the highly contested compact pick-up market.  Well, not anymore. 

In a glitzy event held at the Dusit Grand Ball Room in Makati City, Ford Group Philippines (FGP) has launched the all-new 2003 Ford Ranger to go against the likes of the Nissan Frontier, Isuzu Fuego, Mitsubishi L200 Strada and Endeavor and the Toyota HiLux.   

At the heart is the most powerful engine in its class: the venerable 2.5-liter 12-valve inline-4 turbo diesel that generates 117 horsepower at 3,500 rpm and 280 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm.  This results in the highest payload and towing capacity in its class.  The 4x2 XL workhorse shoulders on with the 2.9-liter normally aspirated diesel engine that’s good for 94 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm.  Both engines are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. 

To prove a point, FGP had the entire stage complete with dancers, band and all pulled by a single Ranger 4x4 XLT to the center of the venue—proving that this pick-up isn’t just about the looks.   

Speaking about the looks, the Ranger now comes standard with stylish multi-reflector headlamps, body colored bumper with chromed insert; chrome door handles, grille and rear bumper with trailer hitch.  Mouldings on the wheel arch and side plus inner tie-down looks provide some degree of toughness.  The range topping 4x4 XLT also gets chrome side mirrors and a lower two-tone paint accent as standard.  The 4x2 XL and the Trekker get the biggest tires in its class: 235 / 75 R 15s on the previous 4x4’s alloys.  Meanwhile, the 4x4 XLT throws its ‘bicycle tires’ out the window with its 265 / 70 R 15 (!) mated onto new alloys with a chromed center cap.

Inside, a newly designed metallic silver accentuated center console dominates.  The Ranger now comes with ala Volkswagen Golf GTi sporty blue dials that compliments its stellar performance.  The full fabric seats have been redesigned and refitted with higher quality trim.  All models now feature a foldable rear bench to increase luggage capacity.  While the 4x2 XL gets power steering, the Trekker and XLT have all power amenities, a rear defogger and panel light control as standard.  All models now come with keyless entry with alarm and immobilizer.

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