Ford Ranger 2012 GCC launch in the UAE
The 2012 Ford Ranger pickup was officially introduced in the GCC at a “Ford Built Tough” event held in the UAE while showcasing the carmaker’s entire range of trucks. Displayed alongside the larger American-built F-150, the South Africa-sourced Ranger will the be the entry-level work-pickup model for the GCC market.
Competing against the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D-Max, both of which are built in South-East Asia, the 2012 Ford Ranger can be had in various trim levels, single or dual cab styles and a choice of two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive with low-range gearing. Mechanically, drivetrain choices include a 2.5-litre “Duratec” petrol engine mated with 5-speed manual transmission, a 2.2-litre “Duratorq TDCi” diesel engine with three different power ratings and a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, and a 3.2-litre “Duratorq TDCi” diesel engine with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Features are basic, but pay enough and it can be loaded up with features such as alloy wheels, Bluetooth, front and side-curtain airbags, dual-zone auto a/c, rear camera with sensors, CD/MP3 stereo with USB port, cooler box, cruise control, ABS with EBD, navigation, stability control, hill-descent control and more, although not all features are expected to be offered in the GCC. Most GCC countries don’t even allow private buyers to purchase such pickup trucks except as part of a company fleet.
The 4×4 model boasts a class-leading water-wading depth of 800 mm, while models fitted with all airbags scored a full 5-star rating in EuroNCAP crash tests. It will be offered in 180 countries, including the Middle East.
Photos by Jorge Ferrari and Salma Sultana.
Keep track of updates soon in the Ford Ranger buyer guide.
Comments
Rahul Jones
Was it bumpy like a typical mid-size pickup? This looks a bit heavier than its competitors.
Mashfique Hussain Chowdhury
Didn’t get the chance to drive it.
Ironman
“Most GCC countries don’t even allow private buyers to purchase such pickup trucks except as part of a company fleet.” … why is that Mash?
Mashfique Hussain Chowdhury
I dunno, but you need a trade licence to buy a Hilux-type pickup here. But anyone can buy an F-150. I hear even that’s not possible in Oman.
Sue N
Hi Mashfique the new Ford Ranger is built in South Africa — previous models were built in Thailand. Can you please clarify this in the story? thanks!
Mashfique Hussain Chowdhury
Interesting. Thanks for the clarification.
Stone
The RANGER is built in
A) South Africa ( for Eurpean + African Market )
B) Thailand ( for Asian Market )
C) Argentina ( for South Central American Market )
with capacity of about 350.000 vehicles a year