By Malusi Msomi

We recently travelled to the Northern Cape (Upington in particular) for the launch of the new Ford Ranger Wildtrak X, a robust contender in the pickup segment.

Exterior Enhancements

The Wildtrak X boasts a broader stance, adding 30mm to its width, and a heightened ground clearance of 26mm compared to the standard Wildtrak. Beyond these dimensional enhancements, its visual appeal is immediately evident with Cyber Orange/black accents, a durable steel bash plate, Matrix LED headlights, and cast aluminum side steps. The exterior is further distinguished by new 17-inch alloy wheels paired with 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires.

A notable addition to the Ranger Wildtrak X is Ford’s innovative Flexible Rack System, featuring a versatile sliding load rack with five lockable positions and foldable roof racks stored within the roof rails. These upgrades cater to the needs of adventure seekers, providing practical solutions for transporting equipment and enhancing the pickup’s overall versatility.

Cabin Comfort and Features

Stepping inside the cabin, the Wildtrak X mirrors the standard Wildtrak’s modern interior, featuring leather seats adorned with vibrant orange accents. Equipped with power front seats, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a digital instrument cluster, and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

Performance and Off-Road Prowess

Under the hood, the Wildtrak X is powered by a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, delivering 154kW/500Nm. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain ensures an enjoyable driving experience. Off-road capabilities are further bolstered by the introduction of Ford’s Trail Turn Assist, a feature designed for four-wheel drive off-road conditions (4H and 4L), reducing the turning radius by up to 25%.

During our initial on-road impressions, the Wildtrak X exhibited composed handling, but the introduction of all-terrain tires did contribute to noticeable tire noise. While we didn’t engage in intense off-road driving, the bakkie demonstrated exceptional gravel handling, a testament to its well-tuned suspension setup.

Verdict

Geared towards 4×4 enthusiasts, the Wildtrak X successfully marries the best of Wildtrak and Raptor elements. It’s exclusively available with Ford’s 2.0 BiTurbo engine, ensuring ample power for a diverse range of driving scenarios. While our initial on-road experience was promising, further exploration is needed to unveil the full extent of the Wildtrak X’s capabilities, especially in challenging off-road conditions. Pricing for the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X starts from R1,013,000.