Ford just revealed a new Ranger concept in Thailand called the Ranger Max. Assuming FoMoCo survives, and assuming the Ranger survives, might this hint at what the next-generation Ranger could be like?
Full story here and here.
Here's Inside Line's take: 2008 Thai Motor Expo: Ford Ranger Max
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Do not want.
Remove the exaggerated concept stuff and you actually have a nice pickup underneath.
Reminds me of the Toyota Hilux sold in Brazil.
I agree with Ateixeira. The paneling is way too busy, but it would be wonderful to get the newer Ranger here in the states.
It looks like a undersized Avalanche (not in a good way). Too much plastic and body cladding for me. Along with the oversized hood and overgrown toneau cover it definitely has all the looks of a concept.
However, it does have potential to be a very good small truck and I really wish someone would produce a very good "small" truck. The Tacoma and Frontier are not small trucks. They are big enough to be mid-size and almost fullsize. I want a truck along the same dimensions as the current Ranger and the last S-10. Add a good motor - GM's 3.6 would probably do nicely or the motor in the Edge would also work since they both get decent fuel economy while putting out impressive HP and torque numbers.
I hope the next Ranger gets the 2.5l I4 Standard and the 3.5l V6 optional. Even the "old" 3.0 would be fine. Sadly, those engines are for FWD engines... Hopefully they also updates the Trannys! A 5/6AT and 5/6MT Engine option. A hybrid Ranger is also a good idea... Sadly, I still prefer diesel in any truck for the torque!
Ford needs a good RWD v6 engine! 250hp would be perfect! It could see use in the Ranger v6, Explorer, Mustang, and any upcoming REAL RWD Lincoln Ls Replacement. Eco Boost or not, Ford's engines are still behind... The only thing that aren't are the aformentioned 2.5 and 3.5 engines.
BTW, the headlights look like they came straight off of a Toyota Rav4!
-Cj
I'm not convinced that this is a truly new truck. The doors and their relationship with each other, the angle of the windshield, width of the rear door are similar to today's truck. Is Ford pulling a fast one on us?
A new Ranger? not in my lifetime...