Ford Faqs

Ford of Britain’s stand at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC, Birmingham, is a pageant of the exciting new vans and trucks in the Ford commercial vehicle range with seven new models on show. Now you can get s neak preview at the new models that will be available for us to admire.

1. New SportVan line-up seen together for the first time: Transit SportVan, Transit Connect SportVan concept and Fiesta SportVan
2. New 3.0-litre engine and automatic transmission for Ford Ranger announced
3. New ‘chilli orange’ Ranger Wildtrak debut
4. New five-cylinder engine for Transit
5. 4.6 tonne model added to Transit range
6. All-wheel-drive Transit in Britain for the first time
7. Football Association’s ‘Fans Embassy’ Transit on display
8. TalkSport radio broadcasting live from the stand

Ford’s compact pickup truck is given only a mild makeover for 2006. The Ranger offers regular-cab and extended SuperCab models spanning six trim packages. SuperCabs have two rear fold-down jump seats as standard or optional, depending on trim, and are available with back-hinged rear access doors.

Regulars offer 6- and 7-ft cargo beds; SuperCabs use the 6-ft only. Engines comprise a 2.3-liter 4-cyl and 3.0- and 4.0-liter V6s. All use manual or 5-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive. V6s also offer 4WD that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing.

The Ford Ranger has been America’s best-selling predominant compact pickup for 17 years running. While the entry-level pickups from other manufacturers have moved up in size, roominess, features and refinement, the Ranger remains the only real compact pickup.

Upgrades had improved this truck. The suspension was overhauled for 2004 with improved bushings, springs, shocks and tires all designed to improve the ride quality, and the brakes were improved for 2003. Last year saw some interior and exterior revisions as well.

Built Ford tough like all trucks from the manufacturer, the compact Ranger is nice, rugged little pickup. The 2004 Ford Ranger has a new look that reshapes its front end for a more prominent appearance. That, plus improved ride features and new equipment, highlight the changes for this year.

Rangers come in regular-cab and extended SuperCab body styles. SuperCabs are available with back-hinged rear doors. Regular cabs use a 6 or 7-ft straightside cargo bed; SuperCabs get a 6-ft version. Regular cab Ranger models have a front bench seat and can sit up to three. With the extended cab, a rear seat compliments the rear doors, pushing the seating up to five.