For one glorious week, I was queen of the road, reigning from the throne of the Ford Ranger Platinum. Forget castles and tiaras; this was all about Windsor leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and the commanding roar of a V6 engine. If Cinderella’s carriage had looked this good, she’d have skipped the ball and taken it straight to the open road.
The elegance that stops traffic
From the moment the Platinum arrived, it was clear this wasn’t your average bakkie. With its satin-chrome grille bearing the bold “PLATINUM” badging, it practically announced its royal lineage. The C-clamp matrix LED headlights don’t just illuminate the road; they make a statement – modern, bold, and impossible to ignore.
Adding a touch of swagger are the 20-inch machined alloy wheels. These wheels aren’t just functional; they’re eye candy for any motoring enthusiast. The powered roller shutter for the load bin? Pure convenience wrapped in sophistication. Whether you’re hauling camping gear or your weekly shopping, the Platinum ensures it’s all done with style.
In the lap of luxury
Sliding into the Ranger Platinum’s cabin is like entering a first-class lounge at the airport. The Windsor leather seats, complete with quilted stitching, are as indulgent as they sound. Heated and ventilated, they’re ready for anything – from Pretoria’s scorching afternoons to chilly early mornings in the bush.
The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, turning every journey into a scenic experience. And when the sun sets, the ambient lighting creates a cosy atmosphere that feels more like a luxury lounge than a bakkie interior.
Taking centre stage on the dashboard is a 12-inch portrait-style touchscreen equipped with Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system. It’s intuitive, responsive, and seamlessly integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Complementing it is a 12.4-inch digital driver display that puts all vital information at your fingertips. And let’s not forget the Bang & Olufsen sound system… an audiophile’s dream that turns your road trip playlist into a concert experience.
The attention to detail is apparent in every corner of the cabin. Soft-touch materials, elegant stitching, and clever storage solutions make the Platinum as practical as it is luxurious. It’s a place where every drive feels like an occasion, whether you’re heading to the shops or setting off on a weekend adventure.
Power meets poise
Under the bonnet lies the heart of the beast: a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine delivering 184kW and 600Nm of torque. Translation? This bakkie has the muscle to match its refined looks. Acceleration is smooth, overtaking is effortless, and cruising feels like gliding on air. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Platinum responds with a refined authority that puts many luxury SUVs to shame.
Ford has fine-tuned the suspension to perfection for this premium offering. It soaks up bumps and uneven terrain with grace, maintaining a level of comfort that’s rare in the bakkie world. Even Pretoria’s pothole-ridden streets couldn’t ruffle its composure. And thanks to advanced soundproofing, the cabin remains a sanctuary of tranquillity.
The four-wheel drive system ensures the Platinum is no slouch when venturing off the beaten path. Whether tackling gravel roads or sandy trails, this bakkie handles it all with confidence, proving that luxury doesn’t mean compromising on capability.
Tech that makes life easier
Being queen of the road comes with perks, and the Ranger Platinum’s tech arsenal ensures every journey is a breeze. Adaptive cruise control with lane centering takes the stress out of long drives, while a 360-degree camera makes parking as easy as waving a royal sceptre. Blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and automated emergency braking add an extra layer of security, whether you’re in the city or exploring uncharted paths.
The clever keyless entry and push-button start add to the convenience, while the wireless charging pad keeps your devices ready for action. There’s even a built-in navigation system that ensures you’ll never lose your way, no matter how far the adventure takes you.
Lifestyle over load bin
While the Platinum retains the Ranger’s rugged DNA, let’s be honest: this bakkie isn’t meant for muck and grime. Sure, it’s capable of handling off-road adventures and carrying heavy loads, but it shines brightest as a lifestyle statement. It’s the kind of vehicle you’d take to a game lodge or a weekend getaway, turning heads every step of the way.
The powered roller shutter adds a layer of practicality, keeping your cargo safe and secure, while the integrated step in the rear bumper makes accessing the load bin effortless. But really, this bakkie’s true calling is transporting its occupants in unmatched luxury.
The verdict
The Ford Ranger Platinum is not just a bakkie; it’s an experience. For a week, it transformed my commutes and errands into something extraordinary. From its striking design to its plush interior and powerful performance, it’s a masterclass in how to combine rugged utility with top-tier luxury.
Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a road trip, or simply enjoying the drive, the Platinum (with a starting price of R1 120 100) ensures you do it with a sense of occasion. It’s proof that a bakkie can be so much more than a workhorse – it can be a lifestyle statement, a mobile throne, and, for one unforgettable week, the perfect carriage for this queen of the road.
