What To Know
- With its rugged design, impressive towing and payload capacities, and a choice of powerful engines, the Ranger is the perfect companion for those who demand both practicality and performance.
- The Wildtrak, with its more powerful engine and four-wheel-drive system, takes these capabilities to the next level, offering a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,980 pounds.
- The Wildtrak, however, takes interior luxury and technology to the next level with its premium leather seats, a larger touchscreen display, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features.
The Ford Ranger is a versatile and capable pickup truck that has gained immense popularity among adventure enthusiasts and off-road aficionados. With its rugged design, impressive towing and payload capacities, and a choice of powerful engines, the Ranger is the perfect companion for those who demand both practicality and performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we put the spotlight on two of the most sought-after Ranger variants: the 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak. We delve into their key features, performance capabilities, and off-road prowess to help you make an informed decision about which one is the ideal choice for your adventurous lifestyle.
Heading 1: Power and Performance: Unveiling the Engines
At the heart of the Ford Ranger 3.2 XLT lies a robust 3.2-liter inline-five turbodiesel engine that generates a healthy 197 horsepower and 347 pound-feet of torque. This potent powertrain delivers ample grunt for hauling heavy loads and tackling challenging terrains. The Wildtrak, on the other hand, boasts a more powerful version of the same 3.2-liter turbodiesel engine, producing an impressive 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This extra muscle translates into even greater towing and payload capabilities, making the Wildtrak the ultimate choice for those who demand the utmost in performance.
Heading 2: Transmission and Drivetrain: Exploring the Options
Both the Ford Ranger 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak offer a choice of two transmissions: a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience for those who prefer to be in complete control of their vehicle’s performance. The automatic transmission, however, offers seamless gear shifts and effortless driving, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize comfort and convenience. When it comes to drivetrain, the 3.2 XLT comes standard with a rear-wheel-drive system, while the Wildtrak features a more capable four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing. This advanced drivetrain configuration enhances the Wildtrak’s off-road capabilities, allowing it to conquer even the most rugged terrains with confidence.
Heading 3: Towing and Payload Capacities: Hauling Heavy Loads
The Ford Ranger is renowned for its impressive towing and payload capacities, making it a dependable workhorse for those who need to haul heavy loads. The 3.2 XLT boasts a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,860 pounds. The Wildtrak, with its more powerful engine and four-wheel-drive system, takes these capabilities to the next level, offering a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,980 pounds. These exceptional figures make both the 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak ideal for hauling heavy equipment, trailers, and other large loads.
Heading 4: Off-Road Prowess: Conquering Challenging Terrains
The Ford Ranger is built to conquer challenging terrains and provide unparalleled off-road adventures. The 3.2 XLT comes equipped with a robust suspension system, skid plates, and an electronic locking rear differential, enabling it to tackle rough roads and mild off-road trails with ease. The Wildtrak, however, takes off-road performance to new heights with its advanced Terrain Management System, which features six selectable drive modes that optimize the truck’s performance for various terrains, including mud, sand, and rock crawling. Additionally, the Wildtrak’s upgraded suspension and all-terrain tires provide exceptional traction and stability on even the most challenging off-road trails.
Heading 5: Interior Comfort and Features: Enhancing Your Driving Experience
Inside the Ford Ranger, both the 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins. The 3.2 XLT features a spacious interior with supportive seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a range of convenience features. The Wildtrak, however, takes interior luxury and technology to the next level with its premium leather seats, a larger touchscreen display, and a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing your driving experience and ensuring your safety on the road.
Heading 6: Pricing and Value: Assessing the Cost-Benefit Ratio
The Ford Ranger 3.2 XLT has a starting price of $34,970, while the Wildtrak starts at $42,810. While the Wildtrak commands a higher price tag, it offers a compelling value proposition with its more powerful engine, four-wheel-drive system, and a plethora of premium features. However, the 3.2 XLT provides excellent value for money, offering a capable and well-equipped truck at a more affordable price. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your budget and the level of performance and features you prioritize.
Heading 7: Conclusion: Choosing the Perfect Adventure Companion
The Ford Ranger 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak are both exceptional pickup trucks that offer a thrilling blend of power, performance, and off-road capability. The 3.2 XLT is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable workhorse, while the Wildtrak is the ultimate choice for adventure enthusiasts who demand the utmost in performance and features. Whether you’re navigating urban landscapes or exploring rugged terrains, the Ranger 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak are ready to take you on unforgettable adventures.
Top Questions Asked
Q1: Which Ford Ranger variant has a higher payload capacity, the 3.2 XLT or the Wildtrak?
A1: The Wildtrak has a slightly higher payload capacity of 1,980 pounds compared to the 3.2 XLT’s 1,860 pounds.
Q2: Does the Wildtrak come standard with a four-wheel-drive system?
A2: Yes, the Wildtrak features a four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing as standard, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
Q3: What is the difference in towing capacity between the 3.2 XLT and the Wildtrak?
A3: The Wildtrak has a slightly higher towing capacity of 7,700 pounds compared to the 3.2 XLT’s 7,500 pounds.