IF YOU ask me to describe the new Ranger Stormtrak in two words, I would say capable and comfortable.
Built on the foundation of the successful Ranger Thunder that sold over 2 000 units a month, the Stormtrak is definitely going to cook up a storm in the segment with its visual enhancements, convenient features and top performance.
Design touch-ups include the black mesh grille with red inserts, a 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 with gloss black finishes.
How the power roller shutter for the rear load base keeps everything away from the dust the Stormtrak stirs up during amazing rides simply completes the beauty of this double cab!
You have three points to open or close the shutter: your key, the button above your right knee and a button at the rear.
To demonstrate its confidence in its product, Ford South Africa took us to the really challenging Baviaanskloof Mountain Pass flanked by Willowmore and Uniondale.
In advanced 4x4 training, you are told to walk the obstacle if you are not sure the car will pull through.
Well, some obstacles are not walkable in this pass and I salute the Stormtrak for the way it cruised through those seriously hectic bends, with not so conventional bridges. It handled the corrugated roads beautifully.
The Stormtrak is a beauty with a magic touch under the bonnet. It is beauty with brains.
What awaits you inside the car will blow you away – a breeze of serenity and relaxation packaged in a luxurious way.
I loved the illuminated front scuff plates, which are married well with premium leather seats beautifully repleted in red stitching found throughout the leather covered cabin.
The Stormtrak boasts all-modern features.
This bakkie is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo engine with a whopping 157kW power output and 500Nm, mated with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission that will leave you as gobsmacked as I was when it comes to performance.
Pricing:
The Stormtrak costs R790 300 for the 4x2 model while the off-road 4x4 model costs R846 500. All sold with a four-year/120 000km warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited corrosion warranty.
This review was made possible by Ford.
