Ford adds XL Plus to Ranger line-up

FORD is targeting the mining industry and government fleet buyers with its latest addition to the Ranger utility range, the 4x4 XL Plus in dealerships from May this year.

The new variant is based on the specification of the XL, but adds running boards (in Double Cab only), a second battery, all-terrain tyres, expanded wiring harness and an optional steel bull-bar.

Pricing kicks off from $46,280 excluding on-road costs for the single-cab chassis, $51,760 for the double-cab chassis and $52,760 for the double-cab pick-up The Blue Oval says the new variant that carries the maximum five-star ANCAP crash safety rating is purpose-built for the mining and government sectors, but that sales are open to the general public as well.

Power comes from Ford's 147kW/470Nm 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission and the 4x4 XL Plus features a locking rear differential as well as a tow bar rated to 3500kg.

Standard equipment includes daytime running lights, canvas seat covers for heavy duty work, 4x4 shields, mud flaps and moulded black bumpers. As with the entire Ranger range the 4x4 XL Plus features Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a USB port, voice control and cruise control.

Ford Australia vice president of marketing, sales and service Graeme Whickman said there is strong demand for a dedicated utility vehicle in the mining and government sectors.

“These industries have very specific demands on their vehicles so that’s why we created the Ranger 4x4 XL Plus,” he said.

“It will be a popular addition to mining industry and business sector fleets but we also expect there to be strong support from private customers who have a particular need for this type of vehicle.”The Australian designed and engineered Ranger is one of a number of utilities that carry a five-star ANCAP crash safety rating. A number of mining companies and larger private organisations that have recently changed their policy to ensure that only five-star-rated light-commercial vehicles are included in their fleet.

The Ranger enjoyed strong local sales last year, with a combined haul of 21,752 units of 4x2 and 4x4 variants, to be the fourth best-selling light-commercial in its segment behind the all-conquering Toyota HiLux on 39,931, the aging Mitsubishi Triton on 24,512 units and the Nissan Navara on 24,108.

2014 Ford Ranger 4x4 XL Plus pricing*

Single-cab chassis (a)	$46,280
Double-cab chassis (a)	$51,760
Double-cab Pick-up (a)	$52,760

*Excludes on-road costs