In the world of pickup trucks, there's a longstanding debate about whether a 4x2 model is adequate for most people or if a 4x4 is the way to go. While 4x4 trucks are essential for off-road adventures and extreme conditions, a 4x2 can often meet the needs of urban dwellers and those with less demanding requirements. The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 is one such truck that caters to this audience, offering a compelling blend of style, features, and pricing. In this review, we'll take a closer look at this versatile pickup and evaluate whether it's the right fit for your needs.
4.3 / 5
Performance
Engine Output (HP), Acceleration, Transmission, Handling 4.0/5
Engine Output (HP), Acceleration, Transmission, Handling 4.0/5
Design
Exterior & Interior Design, Quality, Fit and Finish, Ergonomics 4.5/5
Exterior & Interior Design, Quality, Fit and Finish, Ergonomics 4.5/5
Ride Comfort
Cabin Comfort, Suspension, NVH Insulation 4.0/5
Cabin Comfort, Suspension, NVH Insulation 4.0/5
Safety and Technology
Convenience Technologies, Active and Passive Safety Features 4.5/5
Convenience Technologies, Active and Passive Safety Features 4.5/5
Value for Money
Amount of the vehicle you get for the price, Fuel Efficiency 4.5/5
Amount of the vehicle you get for the price, Fuel Efficiency 4.5/5
What You Will Like
- Handsome styling
- Smooth ride
- Feature-packed
- Torquey motor
What You Won't Like
- Rear seats could be improved
- No 360-degree camera
Price
First and foremost, let's talk about the price. The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 comes in at P1,604,000, which is notably more affordable than its 4x4 counterpart by P300,000. This price point places it within reach of a broader range of buyers, making it a compelling choice for those who want a well-equipped pickup without breaking the bank, especially for those not looking for the added capability of a 4x4.
Exterior
Distinctively American freedom
The Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 has a striking exterior, especially in the Luxe Yellow shade, which not only looks stylish but also conceals dirt and grime effectively. The front fascia draws inspiration from the F150 with its distinctive headlights and DRL design, giving it a bold and modern appearance. One unique feature of this truck is the Turbo badges on the side, differentiating it from the 4x4 variant that sports Bi-Turbo badges.
Bed space
Practicality is not overlooked, with an easy tailgate assist and side tailgate steps that make loading and unloading cargo a breeze.
The truck bed comes with a bed liner, a 12-volt socket, and a 230-volt outlet, which adds convenience to your adventures. The 230-volt outlet allows you to use the Ranger Wildtrak as a mobile power station, perfect for charging laptops, operating barbecue grills, or powering other electrical devices. Something we experienced in Lake Caliraya with some of our media friends using it to power their laptops and camera equipment for work. The bed's dimensions are 1,500 mm in length, 1,500 mm in width, and 540 mm in height, with a maximum load capacity of 1,000 kg.
Additional amenities at the back
One notable difference from the 4x4 Wildtrak is the absence of sensors on the taillights' sides for measuring the length of the cargo. These sensors are exclusive to the 4x4 variant, which might be a consideration if you frequently carry oversized loads.
Interior, Tech, and Safety
A gorgeous portrait
Stepping into the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, you'll find a generously sized 12-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Ford Sync 4A. This system comes equipped with Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity with your mobile devices. The six-speaker audio system provides good sound quality, enhancing your driving experience.
Driver conveniences
The driver benefits from power seats, including lumbar support, which is a feature carried over from the top-of-the-range Wildtrak 4x4. However, the passenger's seat is limited to manual adjustments. The seats are adorned with orange stitching and Wildtrak embroidery, matching the overall interior theme, including the door panels and dashboard. They are comfortable and offer good support during long drives.
Ergonomically sound, high tech, but still rugged
The steering wheel feels great to hold and is equipped with audio and cruise control switches for added convenience. However, it's worth noting that the Wildtrak 4x2 lacks the full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) found in the 4x4 Wildtrak. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, reverse brake assist, and autonomous emergency braking are reserved for the Wildtrak 4x4 model. As a result, you'll find blank switches for these features on the center console.
Another notable absence is the rotary dial that controls the 4x4 system, which is replaced by a blank storage area. This space can be used for stowing small items, like coins or other personal belongings. The interior also includes your standard amenities like cupholders, bottle holders, a wireless charger, and USB-A and USB-C ports to keep your devices charged.
A rear like others, but with welcome tech
The rear of the Ranger Wildtrak is equipped with bench seats, a center armrest with cupholders, air vents to keep rear passengers comfortable, and charging points to ensure their devices stay powered. An additional storage area is cleverly tucked underneath the rear seats, providing a discreet space for valuable or personal items. While the rear seats are comfortable, it's noted that the Nissan Navara offers slightly better rear seat comfort.
Performance and Comfort
Same heart, one less turbo
Under the hood, the Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 is powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine that produces 168 hp and 405 Nm of torque. While this is about 100 Nm less than the Bi-Turbo engine found in the 4x4 Wildtrak, it still delivers ample power for daily driving needs. The engine provides plenty of low-end torque, making it suitable for city and highway driving.
Less one turbo, less two driven wheels, and less four gears
The six-speed automatic transmission pairs well with the engine, delivering smooth shifts and maintaining the right gear for the driving conditions. It's a refined transmission, although not as seamless as the ten-speed automatic found in the Wildtrak 4x4. The availability of a manual mode allows for manual gear selection, although it utilizes buttons on the side of the gear lever rather than traditional paddle shifters, which might be less intuitive for some drivers.
Still one of the most plush pickups out there
In terms of ride quality, the Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 provides a comfortable experience for a vehicle in its class. While noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels are decent, the ride quality is consistent with what's expected from a pickup truck designed primarily for hauling. It's worth noting that the Ranger Raptor, a sportier, off-road-oriented sibling, offers a smoother and more comfortable ride, but it's designed for different driving conditions.
Thanks to light steering, the Ranger Wildtrak is relatively easy to drive in urban settings. However, individuals unaccustomed to longer vehicles may find it challenging due to its length and the absence of a 360-degree camera system.
Fuel Economy
In city driving with relatively light traffic, the Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 can achieve up to 8.5 km/l, which aligns with other pickups in its category. On the highway, with a light foot, it's possible to achieve an impressive 19.5 km/l, making it an economical choice for long-distance travel.
Verdict
All in all, the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 offers a compelling package for most consumers. Its attractive styling, well-appointed interior, and reasonable pricing make it an excellent choice for city dwellers and those with typical pickup truck needs. While it lacks some advanced driver assistance systems and the 4x4 capability of its higher-end sibling, the 4x2 variant covers the essentials without breaking the bank.
Ford's decision to offer both 4x2 and 4x4 options for the Ranger acknowledges the diverse needs and preferences of pickup truck buyers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific requirements and intended usage. For urban warriors and those who value affordability, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak 4x2 is more than enough to get the job done. To answer the question more directly, the 4x2 presents a package that most people will still be able to use. The lightest of trails pose no threat to the Wildtrak with its high ground clearance. Not everyone needs a four-by-four, but not everyone can afford it either. For that job and for those who want most of the bells and whistles that can be afforded on the Ranger, this seems like the perfect choice. If you know what you want, this is for you. If you want it all, there’s the 4x4.
Specifications
Engine
2.0 LFuel Type
DieselPerformance
168 hp @ 3,500 rpmTransmission
Automatic-
Summary
-
Name Ford Ranger 2.0 Turbo Wildtrak 4x2 AT Body Type Pickup Truck Price ₱1,614,000 Transmission Category Automatic -
Engine
-
Engine Size 2.0 L Displacement 1,996 cc Number of Cylinders 4 Number of Valves 16 Transmission Type 6-Speed automatic -
Performance
-
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive Max Output (hp) 168 hp @ 3,500 rpm Max Torque (nm) 405 Nm @ 1,750 rpm *estimated -
Economy & Environment
-
Fuel Type Diesel Emissions Standard Euro 4 Fuel Capacity 80.0 L Combined Fuel Consumption 13.2 km/L *estimated -
Dimensions
-
Length 5,370 mm Width 1,918 mm Height 1,884 mm Wheelbase 3,270 mm Deck Length 1,564 mm Deck Width 1,584 mm Deck Height 540 mm Payload Capacity 985 kg Turning Circle 13 m Ground Clearance 235 mm Trunk Capacity n/a Number of Doors 4 Number of Seats 5 -
Safety & Security
-
Driver's Airbag Front Passenger's Airbag Side Airbags Curtain Airbags Knee Airbag Auto Brake System Electronic Brake Distribution Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) With Electronic Brake Force Distribution
Immobilizer Security Alarm Stability Control Electronic Door Locks Speed Sensing Door Locks ISOFIX Lane Departure Warning System Blind-Spot Detection System -
Features
-
Cruise Control Front Parking Sensors Rear Parking Sensors Leather Upholstery Push Start Button Wheel Size 18 in Wheels Metal Type Alloy Airconditioning System Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control Entertainment System 12" Colored Portrait Touchscreen Connectivity Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, AUX-IN Navigation Ready Warranty 5 Years (150,000 km) Keyless Entry Roof Rack Sunroof Electric Adjustable Seats Power Steering Power Windows Power Outlet Steering Wheel Audio Control -
Technology
-
Active Park Assist Hill Start Assist AWD Modes n/a Tire Pressure Monitoring Heads-up Display Power Liftgate Start-stop System
Colors
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