Ford Ranger 2021: Heavy Duty variant added, expands engine selection and features

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Ford has announced two new options will be added to the entry-level Ranger XL lineup and has added a smattering of new equipment to the existing lineup to increase the value proposition.

The first model added to the lineup is the 2021 Ranger 4×4 XL Heavy Duty Special Edition, which offers a dual cab and steel tray combination for a price of $52,790 (before on-road costs).

Ford has fitted its faithful 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel that sends 147kW of power and 470Nm of torque through a six-speed torque converter automatic to the four-wheel-drive system.

As a work-focused vehicle, the Ranger 4×4 Heavy Duty Special Edition is available exclusively in Arctic White and adds a slew of accessories including a steel bullbar that still works with AEB with pedestrian detection and is fitted, with an LED light bar preinstalled.

Enhancing off-road capability is a fixed-head snorkel, heavy-duty suspension designed for carrying heavier loads and 17-inch steel wheels wrapped in Continental All-Terrain tyres.

Additionally, Ford has added a slightly cheaper grade known as the Ranger 4×2 Sport, which builds on the base Ranger 4×2 XL double cab which is priced at $40,790 (before on-roads), and adds $4,500 worth of extra features.

As a result of the extra bits, Ford is charging slightly more at $43,790 (before on-roads) with black-finished upgrades including 16-inch alloy wheels, sports bar, bedliner, rear bumper, side steps and grille.

Under the bonnet sits Ford’s long-standing 2.2-litre turbodiesel four-cylinder engine making 118kW/385Nm and is fitted exclusively with the six-speed torque converter automatic.

Other changes to the ranger more broadly include the flexibility to add Ford’s twin-turbodiesel 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine to all XL 4×4 models, the engine is the most powerful in the range and puts out 157kW/500Nm.

Those stepping up to the XLT will be happy to learn Ford has now made adaptive cruise control standard across that grade, which should make dealing with traffic a lot easier.

Both the Ford Ranger XL 4×4 Heavy Duty Special Edition and XL Heavy Duty are expected to arrive in dealerships this July.