Is Ford Ranger Single Cab a good buy for your business?

Does the Ford Ranger Single cab 4×2 (2WD) match up to its counterparts, the Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D’Max? Is it a good pick up for your business?

The Ford Ranger Single cab pick up has been around for a while but has not done very well in terms of sales volumes as compared to its counterparts The Toyota Hilux and the Isuzu D’Max. On this article I will give a candid review of the Ford Ranger 2016-2019  Single cab and rank it against the Hilux and the D’Max.

I will rank it with regards to power, fuel economy, driver comfort and reliability.

Our model of the Ford Ranger for this review:

The 2.2 TDCi Single Cab Base 5MT 4×2 LR

Model: Base

Engine Capacity: 2200cc ( Ford Duratorq)

Transmission: 5 Speed Manual

Drivetrain: 2WD(4×2)

Just like its counterparts, its a variable geometry turbo diesel with a direct mode of fuel injection via a common rail with high pressure injector nozzles.

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Power:

The 2200cc Duratorq  Turbo charged  power plant under the hood of the Single cab Ranger produces about 120 Horsepower at 3700 rpm, putting it behind the Hilux and D’Max. (Here, its last in the pack).

Torque:

The Ranger churns out about 285 Nm of Torque (As per the manufacturer) within a rev band of between 1500-2300 rpm. Its torque figures place it second, behind the Hilux but ahead of the D’Max.

Fuel Economy:

This pickup can achieve an average of 10 KM per litre with all factors held constant. This puts it at per with the D’Max and the Hilux in spite of the fact that it has the smallest engine compared to the other two.

Interior and comfort:

I have driven the 3 pick ups, Hilux, D’Max and the Ranger. In my personal opinion the Ford Ranger is the most comfortable and with the most refined interior. What i love most about the Ranger’s interior is the very clear visibility of the cluster from the driver’s seat. The cluster is also very well lit. Here the Ranger comes first.

Where the Ford Ranger wins:

The Ranger has a very good ground clearance and its suspension makes it a very comfortable ride.

It also boasts of the largest load bed in the category.

Where the Ranger looses:

1. It is too expensive compared to its competitors with prices of the Single Cab Ranger starting from Ksh 3,450,000.
2. The power output is a bit low especially with regard to its fuel consumption and engine size.
3. Information about this pick up is very scanty, I feel that the franchise holder CMC Motors has not given the Ranger single cab as much oomph in marketing as it has to the double cab.

Would you choose the Ford Ranger over the Hilux or D’Max?