The Ford Ranger, a top-selling vehicle in South Africa is now available in a limited edition spec. The Ranger Thunder has a sportier exterior and interior, including LED headlamps and daytime LED running lights as standard.

The Thunder will also have an upgraded eight-inch touchscreen instead of the smaller four-inch SYNC 1 system, but will be optional on the XL derivative.

The car was launched via a livestream event today and typically my write-ups entail more info about the car after I drive it, but due to the Covid19 pandemic I am just updating you on the basics from the press release sent to me.

According to Ford, a unique feature to the Thunder – derived from the Wildtrack – is a revised honeycomb-style front grille incorporating red accents for the side “nostrils”, which gives this new derivative a performance-oriented demeanour inspired by the company’s sportiest models.

The release also says there is complemented by black detailing for the side mirror housings, and bold three-dimensional “Thunder” nomenclature at the base of the front doors and on the rear tailgate. The new 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are finished in black.

Inside the Thunder, it has black leather seats, dashboard, steering wheel and gear lever. There are also new front leather seats, featuring “Thunder” decals embroidered in red.

Apart from visuals, the Thunder benefits from practical additions in the load compartment, including a lockable “Mountain Top” black roller shutter to secure goods being carried. There’s also a cargo area management system with a bed divider that allows the owner to easily compartmentalise the available space for securely holding different-sized items.

The Ranger Thunder models are exclusively available in Sea Grey, Frozen White, Absolute Black and Moondust Silver. It is powered by the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine which produces 157kW and 500Nm, and is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

This combination, says Ford, benefits from the transmission’s Progressive Range Select (PRS) function by giving the driver the ability to lock out gears from the automatic shifting range, making it ideal for towing or when driving in slippery conditions or climbing steep gradients. The towing capacity remains at 3 500kg like the regular Ranger, with an 800mm water wading depth and 230mm ground clearance.

The Ford Ranger Thunder has a 6 year/90 000km service plan and 4 year/120 000km warranty.

Pricing:
2.0L Bi-Turbo 10AT (4×2) – R736 000
2.0L Bi-Turbo 10AT (4×4) – R787 000
3.2L TDCI 6AT (4×2) – R711 600