Pick-ups have been a familiar sight in North America for decades. On this side of the Atlantic, however, pick-ups tuned to be genuinely enjoyable on tarmac are still relatively rare. The new Ford Ranger MS-RT is designed to change that.
A pick-up - an open-bed vehicle - is most often seen as a tool for getting work done. Even so, over the past few years, more distinctive and adventure-led versions have helped this body style become a credible alternative to pricier off-road models.
At the far end of that trend sits the Ford Ranger Raptor, which we have already had the chance to test. Now, Ford is exploring a different, equally promising angle - one aimed squarely at the road.
Ford Ranger MS-RT: a road-led take on the pick-up
The slightly unusual MS-RT name is short for M-Sport Road Technology. On this version, the Ranger gains firmer dampers on the front axle and a bespoke calibration for the rear axle. Compared with the “standard” Ford Ranger, the MS-RT sits 40 mm lower.
Chassis changes for sharper handling on tarmac
Ford has also widened both the front and rear tracks by 40 mm on each side, a change intended to improve steering accuracy and deliver greater stability through corners. In total, the Ranger’s overall width increases by around 82 mm.
Power comes from the same engine used in the range-topping versions: a 3.0-litre V6 diesel producing 240 hp and 600 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a ten-speed automatic gearbox and a permanent all-wheel-drive system, e4WD.
What changes visually?
To ensure it looks clearly different from the Raptor, for example, the Ford Ranger MS-RT comes with 21-inch alloy wheels and 275/45 tyres. Up front, the grille adopts a honeycomb pattern, and the bumpers are styled with a sportier look.
Along the sides, the skirts are shaped to make the body appear even lower. At the rear of the Ford Ranger MS-RT, both the top of the cab and the tailgate feature a spoiler which, according to Ford, improves aerodynamics and stability at higher speeds. The rear bumper also incorporates an air diffuser.
Inside, the more performance-focused theme continues thanks to seats with more pronounced side bolstering and blue stitching. The steering wheel takes on a sportier design and, like the instrument panel and the seats, carries MS-RT branding.
As a point of interest, if you have not come across M-Sport Road Technology before, it is the company responsible for developing Ford’s competition cars. That includes the current Ford Puma Rally, as well as vehicles for Rallycross and for circuit racing in the GT3 category.
When does it arrive?
The sportiest Ford Ranger - Raptor aside, of course - is due to reach the market in the middle of this year. Pricing has not yet been announced.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Leave a Comment