In the heart of Upington, South Africa, where the sun-drenched landscape created a stage as captivating as the story it was about to unveil, an event of historic proportions began. The setting was reminiscent of a cinematic adventure, where the golden sands of time met the cutting-edge of the future. The unveiling of the Ranger Wildtrak X was not just any event, but a celebration of Ford’s remarkable journey through a hundred years of automotive innovation and mastery, vividly exemplified by the launch of Ford’s newest Ranger Wildtrak X.
The rugged and trail-ready Ford Wildtrak X, designed to redefine the art of off-road escapades, not only stands as a testament to a century of Ford’s unwavering excellence but also showcases how much this brand has evolved over the past 100 years. As we celebrate Ford’s centenary, join me on a journey through the grandeur of Ford’s past and the excitement of its future, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Upington’s golden horizons.
UNVEILING THE RANGER WILDTRAK X
With anticipation building in the crowd, the stage was set for the latest addition to the Ranger family, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X. Over the past decade. The Ranger Wildtrak has earned its place as a cherished and popular choice in South Africa, known for its style, innovation, and performance.
The Wildtrak X was introduced as a more off-road-oriented version of the Ranger Wildtrak. This model promises to push the boundaries of an active, outdoor lifestyle and offers an impressive array of features to enhance the off-road experience.
PIONEERING INNOVATION
One of the most notable innovations showcased during the event was Ford’s Trail Turn Assist. This groundbreaking feature, available in 4H and 4L modes, reduces the turning radius by up to 25%. It’s a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts, allowing them to navigate tight turns easily. Complementing this, the Wildtrak X also boasts the ingenious Trail Control, which adeptly manages acceleration and braking in challenging terrains, giving drivers the confidence to conquer difficult paths.
EXPANDING OFF-ROAD HORIZONS
The Wildtrak X was unveiled as a bridge to more extreme adventures without compromising luxury and safety. With a 30 mm wider stance, 26 mm increased ground clearance, and specially tuned Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers. It’s ready to tackle challenging terrains. This model takes care of off-road needs right out of the factory, ensuring that off-roaders no longer need to modify their vehicles to meet their needs.
INNOVATIVE FLEXIBLE RACK SYSTEM
The Wildtrak X also introduces Ford’s segment-first Flexible Rack System, a versatile solution for carrying equipment like ladders, planks, or kayaks. This system enhances the vehicle’s functionality and frees up load bed space for cargo. One person can efficiently operate it, eliminating the need for tools and simplifying adding or removing equipment.
FOCUS ON SAFETY
Inside, the Wildtrak X offers a luxurious yet high-tech cabin, with features like leather seats, a fully digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch touchscreen controlling Ford’s powerful SYNC 4A infotainment system. Safety and convenience are paramount, with various driver assistance systems, including Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Information System, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
The vehicle also comes equipped with Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control, which are invaluable for navigating tricky terrain and tight turns, demonstrating Ford’s commitment to safety and innovation.
The Wildtrak X boasts a rugged yet stylish exterior, with a distinctive grille, steel bash plate, cast aluminium side steps, and unique Wildtrak X badges. Inside, the seats are accented with Miko suede trim, while the cabin features a range of Cyber Orange accents.
2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel Engine and 4×4 Capability
Under the hood, the Wildtrak X is powered by Ford’s powerful and efficient 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine, generating 154kW of power and 500Nm of torque. It’s paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. This model is the first Ranger 2.0L Bi-Turbo to feature Ford’s on-demand four-wheel-drive system, providing four modes to suit various driving conditions.
The Ranger Wildtrak X is priced at R1,013,000 and comes with Ford Protect, which includes a four-year/120,000 km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance, and a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.
Customers can also opt for service or maintenance plans, and the warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200,000 km. This comprehensive coverage ensures peace of mind for Ford Ranger Wildtrak X owners.
LAST WORD
The launch of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X is a testament to Ford’s commitment to innovation and excellence. It offers a rugged, capable vehicle designed with the modern adventurer in mind. As Ford celebrates a century of automotive excellence in South Africa, the Wildtrak X is a fitting addition to their storied legacy, promising countless off-road adventures for years to come. In the spirit of adventure and the legacy of Ford, the Wildtrak X invites us all to embark on extraordinary journeys and discover the unknown with the confidence that comes from driving a vehicle crafted by a company that has stood the test of time.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © FORD SOUTH AFRICA
