Some existing model grades of the MY21 Ford Ranger have received some minor yet practical updates, and new variants have also been added to the line-up.
Ford has updated existing Ranger model grades for MY21.25 and one of the more notable changes is the replacement of the previous dual-screen instrument binnacle with a 4.2-inch single screen on some models.
The previous dual 4.2-inch screens on various MY20 Ranger models has been flicked on MY21 Ranger XLS (with premium pack), Sport and XLT model grades in favour of a new single 4.2-inch screen (pictured below) that sits between analogue speedometer and tachometer gauges, and the new arrangement also uses analogue gauges for coolant temperature and fuel level.
According to a Ford Australia spokesperson, the change to the instrument binnacle setup was implemented due to customer feedback (and some media) who thought the “dual screens weren’t particularly practical to use”. With the dual-screen setup, the driver would have to scroll through the menu to bring up a digital tacho, which would disappear if other menu items were accessed.
While the MY21 Ranger Raptor will also run a single screen (albeit with unique graphics), it’s interesting to note that the Ranger Wildtrak model grade will retain the dual-screen setup, most likely as a differentiating feature.
Having already tested an MY21.25 Ranger Sport XLS, we can confirm that the new single screen setup is better than the dual screens (keep an eye out for our upcoming review). Plenty of information can be accessed by scrolling through the menu using the steering wheel controls including time, two tripmeters, distance to empty, average fuel economy, digital speedometer and trip timer. Always on display, or displayed automatically, is the odometer, seatbelt status, compass, ambient temperature, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Keeping Aid status.
The Ranger retains its 8-inch colour touchscreen across the range and all models come with FordPass Connect, which allows for vehicle locking/unlocking, as well as engine start, via a smartphone. This system also allows you to see where your vehicle is parked, check the fuel level, the distance to empty and the odometer… all on your phone.
Another change to Ranger XLS (with premium pack) and Ranger XLS Sport model grades is the deletion of the 230V inverter in the rear console, although this feature is still standard on XLT and above.
The optional XLS Premium Pack (standard on XLS Sport) still includes satellite navigation, CD player, Embedded Voice Control, DAB+ Digital Radio, dual-zone climate control and keyless entry and start.
New models in the MY21 Ford Ranger line-up include the return of the Ranger Wildtrak X and the introduction of the Ranger XLT Cab Chassis and the Ranger FX4 Max. We’ll tell you more about these models as soon as we can get our hands on them.
