The Ford Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate pick-up for off-road use, boasting unmatched looks thanks to its muscular bodywork, lowered suspension and 21-inch alloy wheels
Ford Pro today revealed the first model in a new range of premium commercial vehicles under the MS-RT brand: the new Ford Ranger MS-RT.
The new Ranger MS-RT was designed and built in close collaboration between Ford’s global team and MS-RT specialists – which is an offshoot of M-Sport, Ford’s long-standing rally partner. Boasting a unique combination of striking motorsport-inspired looks, enhanced driving experience and exceptional cargo carrying capacity, the new Ford Ranger MS-RT is set to change the world of pick-up vehicles.
“We are delighted to add the Ranger MS-RT to the Ford Pro portfolio, offering an exciting factory option aimed at customers who need a commercial vehicle that is also a statement for their business,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro Europe. “More customers want a commercial vehicle for workdays, which will also support their weekend lifestyle. This new MS-RT signature vehicle is the perfect answer.”
The MS-RT version is based on the platform of the new generation of the model and combines a bold appearance with significant mechanical upgrades. In particular, the new Ranger MS-RT is equipped with a V6 diesel engine with a capacity of 3.0 liters and uses a unique suspension setup and different wheels in order to enhance its abilities on asphalt and become the “ultimate road pick-up”.
As the top model in the Ranger range, the fully connected commercial vehicle is also integrated with Ford Pro’s software and connected services platform, including integrated charging solutions for electric models, management tools from Ford Pro Telematics and the FordPass Pro app , as well as the FORDLiive system. All of these solutions help small businesses reduce cost of ownership, maximize vehicle uptime and optimize productivity.
Customers in Greece can order the new Ford Ranger MS-RT at Ford Pro Official Dealers in the spring of this year, with deliveries starting in the summer.
New Ford Ranger MS-RT
The Ford Ranger MS-RT is designed to be the ‘ultimate road pick-up’, with a muscular design inspired by motorsport. The Ford Pro luxury pick-up is powered by Ford’s powerful 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, delivering a maximum power of 240 PS and 600 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD permanent four-wheel drive system found on other models of the new Ranger. Also, the all-new MS-RT version retains the same 1-tonne payload and 3,500kg towing capacity of the all-new Ranger.
Visually, the front of the new Ranger MS-RT draws inspiration from the extreme versions of the model that participate in racing events in Asia, exuding intense dynamism thanks to the honeycomb grille and integrated splitter.
The overall silhouette of the vehicle is lowered thanks to the sculpted shape of the side legs, while at the rear the air diffuser is integrated into the distinctive bumper design. The tailgate is adorned with MS-RT graphics and an exclusive ducktail spoiler – this is complemented by another spoiler installed high on the cabin floor. This unique combination of aerodynamic aids on the new Ford Ranger MS-RT has been optimized through computer simulations with the aim of overall aerodynamic balance and enhancing vehicle stability at high speeds.
Exclusive 21-inch diamond-cut light-alloy wheels – the largest ever offered on any model in the Ranger range – are fitted with low-profile 275/45 R21 tyres. These impressive wheels are now housed in widened arches, extending the vehicle’s overall width by 82mm both front and rear. Also, the front and rear track has been increased by 40 mm with the aim of improving grip and stability.
The car’s suspension has been optimized to achieve the ideal balance between ultimate control and comfort. So the new Ranger MS-RT includes different rear setup, stiffer front shock absorbers, while the overall height is now reduced by 40mm. All this ensures the new Ranger MS-RT a sportier look, combined with greater handling precision and cornering stability.
“If the Ranger Raptor is the ultimate off-road pick-up, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate on-road pick-up,” said Hans Schep. “This is something different to what we usually see in this category in Europe. With driving qualities that are more reminiscent of a passenger car and with unchanged towing capabilities and cargo carrying capacity, we believe it will be an attractive new option for customers in the pick-up segment.”
The distinctive interior of the double-cab model features unique new seats with a sporty design that provide improved comfort and better body support for the front passengers. Non-animal eco-leather and suede, combined with the distinctive MS-RT trim pattern and distinctive blue stitching, adorn both the front and rear seats. MS-RT logos are present on the front of the seats as well as an additional badging on the dashboard. The sports steering wheel is heated, has blue markings for the straight line position and an MS-RT logo insert.
From launch the new Ford Ranger MS-RT will be available in a range of colours, including Conquer Grey, with mirror caps and door handles painted in Agate Black. Standard equipment includes, among others, a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, electronically controlled dual-zone automatic climate control, front and rear parking assist, a reversing camera, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
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New generation of MS-RT models
MS-RT, which stands for M-Sport Road Technology, emerged from founder Edward Davies’ collaboration with M-Sport in 2015. M-Sport has a long history of working with Ford on the development and manufacture of its cars in rally racing, such as the new Ford Puma Rally1, while also preparing vehicles that participate in Global Rallycross and GT3 races.
The MS-RT specialist team harnesses the M-Sport DNA, as evidenced through its participation in various racing events, to build modified road vehicles with a unique sporting character. The company has previously developed modified versions of the previous generation Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Ranger models. This new partnership builds on that legacy.
The new Ranger MS-RT will be available from Ford Pro dealers across Europe. Final assembly and finishing of the new models will take place at a dedicated new facility located at the Ford Dagenham Estate in the UK. It is a state-of-the-art facility, close to the base of the Ford Pro engineering team at the Ford Dunton Campus, which includes a design and engineering studio, a semi-automated paint shop and two assembly lines. It also includes a dedicated customer service team.
Source: Skai
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