The new Ford Ranger Thunder combines SUV-like style and comfort with generous load carrying and towing capability - on or off the beaten track, writes Trish Whelan. It arrives here late summer 2020 priced from €47,591.
Limited to just 4,500 examples across Europe, Ranger Thunder adds exclusive and exterior design to the 2020 International Pick-up Award-winner as well as many practical options as standard to deliver SUV-like style and comfort along with generous load carrying and towing capability. A Double Cab body style is standard.
The vehicle is powered by Ford’s efficient and powerful Bi-Turbo EcoBlue diesel engine offering 213hp and 500 Nm of torque - which provides great pulling power - and the company’s 10-speed automatic gearbox as standard for smooth shifting and effortless performance on- and off-road. This proven transmission is used in applications as diverse as the Ford F-150 pick-up and Ford Mustang.
Based on the Ranger Wildtrak series, the limited-edition Ranger Thunder combines high specification with optimised load hauling and tough four-wheel drive capability. This four-wheel drive system delivers fuel efficiency from 9.1 L/100kms (WLTP rating) and C02 emissions from 239g/km (WLTP).
Just one specification is offered. Finished in Sea Grey, the model adds 18-inch black alloy wheels and Ebony Black features for the front grille, rear bumper, skid plates, fog light surrounds load bay sports hoop and door handles. Red accents on the grille and sports hoop highlight the key details and are complemented by ‘Thunder’ badges for the driver and front passenger doors and tailgate, with the ‘Ranger’ logo finished in matte black. LED headlights with darkened bezels are also standard.
Ranger Thunder includes a load bay bedliner and Black Mountain Top powder-coated roller shutter - both are popular options with Ranger customers. A practical new load bay divider is also featured for the first time.
The interior gets full Ebony leather seats with ‘Thunder’ red embroidery and matching stitching across the steering wheel, seats, instrument panel etc.
Last year, Ranger had its best-ever year in Europe with 52,500 vehicles sold.
