Ford is getting ready to slot a new sub-Raptor special edition into the Ranger line-up.
A special edition that appears to be based on the Ranger Tremor released in the USA has been teased on Twitter, with unique side steps, what appear to be off-road tyres, and blacked-out trim pieces similar to those on the FX4 special edition.
The dash is also home to a bank of switches not featured on the regular Ranger in Australia.
The side steps are very similar to those of the Tremor, prompting speculation the car teased will slot in below the Ranger Raptor as a tougher, more off-road focused option at a more affordable price.
The Tremor gets 17-inch alloy wheels and Fox shock absorbers, but misses out on the Raptor’s wider track and full off-road suspension.
“Ranger Tremor can be your daily driver during the week then transform into your off-road adventure vehicle come Saturday morning,” said Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager in the USA.
“With its added off-road capability combined with the six-switch auxiliary bank and more than 200 Ranger-specific dealer-installed available accessories, Ranger Tremor is a very capable overlanding rig.”
The Ford Ranger isn’t due for replacement until 2022 or 2023, but is facing a tough crop of new rivals. There’s a new Isuzu D-Max and Mazda BT-50, an updated Toyota HiLux, and the spectre of a new Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton.
Ford has kept the Ranger fresh with a number of facelifts and technical updates, along with a steady stream of special editions.