We’re not sure what the team at Ford Europe is putting in their coffee every morning, but we certainly want what they’re having after laying eyes on the new Ranger MS-RT – the blue oval’s “ultimate street truck”.
Take just one look at the new variant and it’s clear to see where the nickname comes from, with the Ranger’s new looks taking direct inspiration from Asian racing trucks.
Up front, there’s a new honeycomb grill that seamlessly blends into a redesigned lower fascia and splitter, helping the ute appear lower to the ground in conjunction with new side skirts. Both the front and rear arches have been pumped too, increasing the vehicle’s width by 82mm. Track width has also increased by 40mm on each side.
The MS-RT also features the biggest wheels ever fitted to a Ranger, those being new diamond-cut 21-inch wheels wrapped in low-profile 275/45 R21 tyres.
At the back, you can find an exclusive ducktail spoiler on the tailgate, sitting above a distinct rear bumper and an integrated diffuser.
Firmer dampers up front and tweaks to the rear suspension see the vehicle drop by 40mm, which not only helps the ute look the part but also offers up improved handling stability when cornering.
Inside, there’s a new set of front seats with more supportive bolsters clad in eco-leather and suede, finished off with unique MS-RT stitching, while the driver gets a sportier heated steering wheel with a blue 12 o’clock marker and MS-RT inlay.
Under the bonnet sits an untouched 3.0-litre V6 diesel that can be found in other Ranger variants – producing 184kW and 600Nm of torque – mated to a ten-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive system.
For those of you who still want to use the ute as it was originally intended, you’ll be pleased to know that the MS-RT can still tow 3500kg braked and haul a one-tonne load in the rear bed.
Ford Europe says it is currently taking orders for the Ranger MS-RT, with the first deliveries expected by mid-2024. However, it’s unclear whether the variant will be sold in New Zealand at this time.
