The
Ford Ranger has been the best-selling compact
pickup truck in America for the past
nine years. In fact, it's sixth overall on the list of top-selling vehicles in the
U.S. for 1995.
So, what's in store for '96? The good news is that you'll find the same features and
attributes that have made Ranger the truck of choice for a broad range of light pickup
owners, a range that includes increasing numbers of women buyers. And the even better
news is that you'll find a few additions and upgrades well conceived to keep this
vehicle in its current position on the sales charts.
The Ranger may have just one name, but it isn't one truck. It's actually 19 when you
count up all the choices. There are Regular Cab and SuperCab versions; shortbed (6
ft.) and longbed (7 ft.) models; the choice of 2-wheel drive or 4wd; base and uplevel
trim packages (XL, XLT and STX); and the sporty Flareside Splash, with its stepside
bed fabricated from composites rather than sheet steel.
New this year is a Flareside pickup box option for both the Ranger XL and XLT Regular
and SuperCab models, available only with 2wd 4-cyl. models.
Depending on the model, Ranger pickups can accommodate anywhere from two to five
passengers. It can also handle loads ranging from 1450 to 1650 lbs., and tow trailers
weighing from 2000 to 6000 lbs., depending on the powertrain you choose.
But in addition to this wide array of style and capability choices, this small pickup
has evolved from its early history as a rough and ready mini-hauler to a more
versatile and comfortable all-purpose truck with many modern safety features. For
instance, the Ranger is the first compact pickup truck to offer an optional passenger
airbag to complement its standard driver's airbag. And, like its F-150 big brother, it
has an added safety feature. To accommodate a rear-facing child seat, the passenger
airbag can be deactivated with a key-operated dashboard switch.
Civilization is steadily overtaking the compact pickup class, a trend that's reflected
in the Ranger's list of standard and optional features. Standard equipment includes
amenities like illuminated entry, tinted glass and a floor console with dual
cupholders, while options can add fog lamps, power windows/doors/locks, keyless remote
keyless entry and, of course, a variety of sound systems.
Obviously, Ford and other truck manufacturers are responding to all the folks who
drive pickups primarily because they like the style. Driven primarily as image
vehicles, they have to satisfy owners who expect passenger car features and comfort. next page