SOMEONE asked: just how many Ford Rangers do we need?
My answer is stop counting and pick yours from the wide variety on offer, and Ford is making sure everyone is taken care of.
The latest Ranger FX4, launched last week in Mzansi, comes with a feature called FordPass Connect, coming standard to the new XL, XLS, XLT, Wildtrak and Ranger Raptor models from February 2021 production.
We never understood the fuss about downloading the FordPass Connect app until we had to use it at the launch.
The app brings the car to your cellphone, making life easier as you not only get to start it with the app, but also get to lock and unlock it.
Neale Hill, MD of Ford South Africa, said connectivity was important, as the core of their goal was to make smart cars for a smart world.
“FordPass Connect and the app allows us to bring smart, simple-to-use real-world technologies into the hands of Ranger owners and their families, significantly enhancing the ownership experience,” he said.
Just what can you do with this app?
• Vehicle status and remote vehicle monitoring: Owners can check the car key variables including fuel level and oil status, tyre pressures and mileage.
• Remote start and stop (automatic models): start the engine via smartphone, enabling the car’s cabin to start heating or cooling to the last used setting. This ensures a cool, comfortable interior in summer or warm and inviting one in winter. The car is automatically locked when remote starting. It can only be driven once the driver inserts the ignition key or presses the “Start” button with the proximity key in the car. A scheduled start can also be programmed.
• Remote lock and unlock: Drivers can lock and unlock their Ford remotely.
• Vehicle locator: Drivers can find their way back to the car in a busy parking area without the need to remember where they parked it.
• Vehicle health alerts: the alerts can be sent directly to a smart device pre-empting service needs and maintenance like a low washer fluid.
• Map and search: access to an extensive range of search options, including Ford dealers, fuel stations, available parking and entertainment, among others.
• Maintenance schedule: all key vehicle information is available in the app, including the VIN number, new vehicle warranty (including start date for the four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty), ) and Ford protect plan. Also, check upcoming service intervals and schedule a service.
• Roadside assistance: instant access to call Ford’s 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, valid for three years/unlimited distance.
• Vehicle support: extensive additional resources, including how-to videos and digital owner’s manual.
• FordPass guide: this offers one-on-one assistance via phone or email.
FX4 is not just beautiful. More power lies in its four-cylinder 2,0-litre, turbo-diesel engine giving out 132 kW and 420 Nm.
The Ford Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT FX4 10AT 4x2 costs R618 900 and Ford Ranger 2.0 SiT Double Cab XLT FX4 10AT 4x4 is R687 900.
Review was made possible by Ford.
