SOUTH AFRICANS love their bakkies as much as Americans love their trucks, and it’s no wonder the Ford Ranger has done so well.
Following the success of the limited-edition Ford Ranger Thunder in 2020, Ford SA has introduced another unique and appealing bakkie based on the upmarket Wildtrak, the Ranger Stormtrak.
Said Ford SA general manager for marketing Doreen Mashinini: “The Thunder was exceptionally well-received when we launched it a year ago, proving there is strong demand for range-topping models that offer something different from the norm
“The new Stormtrak follows the same recipe as the limited-edition Thunder by elevating the style, sophistication and exclusivity of our most luxuriously appointed model in the Ranger line-up,” Mashinini said.
In Stormtrak form, the Ranger gains several attention-grabbing design elements, including a striking black mesh grille with red inserts, black insert in the lower section of the front bumper, black decals for the bonnet and doors, black roof rails and 18-inch alloy wheels finished in gloss black.
Further identifying this limited-edition Ranger’s special status are three-dimensional Stormtrak logos on the lower sections of the front doors and rear tailgate.
The upcoming introduction also sees the addition of a vibrant new paint colour, lucid red. It can also be specified in sea grey, frozen white and blue lightning.
Everyday practicality has been elevated too, thanks to the standard fitment of Ford’s new Power Roller Shutter for the rear load compartment. This ensures goods can be safely secured in the load bed with ease, complemented by the tailgate locking mechanism being integrated into the central locking system.
As with the Wildtrak, the premium level of standard features is exceptional. It includes the sync-3 infotainment system with embedded navigation, Apple Car Play and Android auto as well as FordPass functionality that allows remote access to numerous features from their phone, such as remote and scheduled starts to either cool or heat the cabin.
In line with its range-topping status, the Ranger Stormtrak is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine that produces 157kW and 500Nm.
It is paired with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission that delivers seamless shifts matched to responsive performance and impressive fuel economy.