Ranger or the Everest? Different but the same.
Stepping from one model to the other is like exchanging seats at a dining table.
Common to both models is the 2.2 diesel motor whichdrives the Everest through all four wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Ranger on the other hand features a 6-speed auto box driving rear wheels. Both of which, however, provide smooth changes and a pleasing drive.
The Everest, equipped with seating for 7 is very much the family vehicle. In monetary terms, it makes a lot of sense when compared with the bigger engine, five cylinder version. True, it doesn’t have the power and torque, and no doubt the performance, which the engine has become famous for, but it does offer comfortable driving on highways and more than adequate capability when used off road.
The Ranger is a 4×2 HI Rider and is able to offer a modicum of off road performance for the driver. This is given to use the vehicle on a farm or similar type environment. With an auto box providing comfortable and seamless travel across a variety of terrains, the Ranger does on occasion seem to ‘falter’ when pulling off soon after starting from cold.
Seated behind the wheel, the ride seems identical other than for the empty Ranger giving a somewhat bumpier ride. This is due to the different suspension and lack of load. That aside, the dash and controls are apparently identical and offer loads of feedback – even when reversing, as the centre screen records / reflects that which is important to the driver.
Some items are a bit ‘out of sync’ which forced a second look for some accessories. Such is the case with the speed control which is somewhat obscured in a tiny panel to the right of the dash. It is also the case for the diminutive rev counter sitting to the right of the gauges.
Auto or manual? Normally the auto gets my vote but in this case the 6-speed manual is the pick of the bunch and provides a far smoother ride both on and off road.
Both of these Ford models feature the 2.2 Duratorq TDCi engine producing 88 kW and 285 Nm. Each driven on their own are more than capable of overcoming any obstacle but whether or not it would be suited to towing – that is open for debate.
Specifications:
Model: Ford Ranger / Everest
Engine: 2.2 diesel
Power: 88 kW / 285 nM
Gears: 6 speed
Prices R 497.000 / R 537,000
Service intervals of 20 000km with a five-year/100 000km service plan
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