Considering the success of the Ford Thunder introduced in in August 2021 and boasting close to 2 000 units sold, it comes as no surprise that the blue oval will soon introduce yet another special edition based on its popular Wildtrak derivative.
Taking the weather-inspired theme further, the new Ranger Stormtrak will follow the same recipe as the Thunder by elevating the already stylish looks of the Wildtrak and adding some exclusive extras. The Stormtrak gains several attention-grabbing design elements, including a striking 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 gloss black alloys. Further highlighting the limited edition’s status are three-dimensional Stormtrak logos on the lower sections of the front doors, as well as on the rear tailgate. Buyers will also be able to choose from some cool colours, which include a new Lucid Red. It can also be specified in Sea Grey, Frozen White and Blue Lightning.
Like the Thunder, the Stormtrak gets Ford’s power roller shutter for the loadbin, complemented by a tailgate locking mechanism which is integrated into the vehicle’s central locking system. Adding versatility is an adjustable bed divider kit that makes it easy for the owner to compartmentalise the cargo area. A drop-in bedliner and 12-volt power socket are included in the package.
Moving inside, the limited-edition’s luxurious finishes include illuminated front scuff plates, premium leather seats with red stitching and the Stormtrak logo taking pride of place on the front seat backrests. As is standard in the Wildtrak range, the safety and driver aid specifications are at a high level. A new feature is FordPass, which enables the owner to remotely access numerous vehicle functions from their phone – such as remote and scheduled starts to either cool or heat the cabin.
The Stormtrak will be powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine which produces 157 kW and 500 Nm peak torque, paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Ranger’s towing capacity of 3 500 kg remains unchanged, along with ground clearance of 230 mm and a wading depth of 800 mm.
Pricing for the special model will be announced closer to launch which is expected around late September/early October. *Of course, the clock has officially begun ticking for the reveal of a new generation Ford Ranger, likely in 2022, with international and local motoring sites speculating about looks and features. From what we can gather so far, all power questions will be put to bed when the new model is introduced. Reports point to the introduction of a trio of engines with the new model. The familiar 2.0-litre diesel will be carried over, complemented by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, set to produce around 185 kW and 600 Nm. The range-topping Raptor will potentially have a twin-turbo 3.0-litre petrol V6, with outputs in the region of 300 kW and 560 Nm. We can only hope this is destined for South Africa too! Spy pics allude to a more aggressive and squared-off frontal styling. A mini version of the world’s top-selling truck, the Ford F-150, then? Yes, please!
