Were you wondering whether buyers would take to the 2.0-litre bi-turbo engine offered in the new Ford Ranger? Wonder no longer, because it appears they're happily hopping aboard the downsizing train.
Martin Gunsberg, Ford Australia communications head, today told media 50 per cent of Ranger XLT and Wildtrak buyers are opting for the new 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel and 10-speed automatic transmission over the cheaper (and older) 3.2-litre five-cylinder oiler.
"We've seen very strong uptake on the bi-turbo engine, which is promising to see," Gunsberg said, speaking at Motorclassica in Melbourne.
"We're seeing roughly 50 per cent take-up on the bi-turbo, which is more than we had anticipated, knowing we're a market that loves to tow and loves big engines," he elaborated.
The 2.0-litre engine makes 157kW and 500Nm, and costs $1200 over the regular 3.2-litre. The engine debuted in the Ranger Raptor, which has accrued a four-month waiting list since its launch.
Although it's down on displacement, the engine offers the same 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity as the larger five-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic.
It's worth noting, the XLT and Wildtrak offer the same powertrain as the aforementioned Raptor, but also support autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist through an optional tech pack not offered in the heavy-duty off-road version.
The 2.0-litre is standard on the Everest Titanium, too, with Gunsberg arguing it offers the "NVH improvement" and fuel economy favoured by seven-seat family SUV buyers.
