Raptor Lite? New Ford Ranger Wildtrak X Breaks Cover!
Ford has revealed the new Ranger Wildtrak X, which boasts a wider track, special Bilstein dampers, bespoke exterior styling and more. Raptor Lite, anyone?
Meet the new Ford Ranger Wildtrak X. Yes, Ford has squeezed a fresh variant into the gap between the Wildtrak and the full-fat Raptor, handing the newcomer a wider track, special Bilstein dampers and a couple of extra off-road goodies.
The reveal in Australia comes shortly after the Blue Oval brand whipped the wraps off the new Stormtrak derivative in Thailand. Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa – which produces the SA-spec Ranger at its Silverton facility – says that model is “not confirmed for South Africa” (though we have a theory it will indeed be offered locally, perhaps sooner rather than later).
We’ve asked about the Wildtrak X as well and will update this story once we hear back. Of course, it’s worth noting the previous-generation Stormtrak was indeed offered in South Africa, while the old Wildtrak X didn’t ever make it to local roads.
What’s the difference between Wildtrak and Wildtrak X?
So, what makes a Ranger Wildtrak X? Well, as you might have guessed from its nameplate, the newcomer is based on the Wildtrak, but gains a 30 mm wider stance (providing what Ford describes as “an even more stable footprint off-road”) and an extra 26 mm of ground clearance.
The track-width increase and loftier ground clearance are integrated with new 17-inch alloys (wrapped in 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres) and special Bilstein position-sensitive dampers. The Dearborn-based firm says “keen off-roaders” thus have no need to upgrade tyres and suspension since they will receive “what they need right out of the factory”. Interestingly, despite the suspension upgrade, this version of the bakkie retains its 3 500 kg braked towing capacity, unlike the Raptor.
A new Trail Turn Assist feature is also standard, helping the driver to negotiate tight bends on narrow tracks by applying the brake on the inside rear wheel, which Ford promises reduces the turning radius “by up to 25%”. The system can be used at speeds under 19 kph with the bakkie in either 4H or 4L (and with the rear differential unlocked). The Trail Control system from the Ranger Raptor is likewise part of the deal, aiding the driver to maintain constant low speed while off-road.
The Aussie-spec Ranger Wildtrak X furthermore comes with a new Flexible Rack System, which comprises a sliding load rack that can be locked into 5 positions along the length of the load bay, and folding roof racks that store neatly inside the roof rails when not in use. There’s also the prewired overhead auxiliary switch pack, ready to cater for aftermarket accessories.
Ford has revealed the new Ranger Wildtrak X, which slots in below the full-fat Raptor, boasting a wider track and special Bilstein dampers...
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