2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Review

There might be too many choices for a Ranger already, but here comes the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak. Ranger is getting a lot of hype due to having so many choices. All of those fill a certain niche. And this is a good option. Something for everyone as they say. The Wildtrak is centered around off-roading. Most of Ford’s pickups can accommodate to a certain degree go off-road. But having one that is specifically designed to go on an adventure is amazing. This means that it will require a special toolset to tackle the wild track. In translation, this means better suspension, an engine that can rev it up, and protection for the bottom side of the truck. Bumpers with winch and hook capabilities and many more.

On the inside, there are going to be some improvements as well. Mostly comfort concerns that can easily be addressed. The ride can get bumpy so that means an enjoyable ride is of utmost importance. On the outside just minor tweaks so the truck is ready for unpaved roads and all that it entails. The powertrain might be the same, but there are certainly other options that spring to mind. Let’s see what the new Wildtrak will look like.

2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak

Under the Hood of the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak

The new 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak has some interesting options under the hood. No innovations as of now but perhaps that changes before the release. Currently, Wildtrak is poised to continue with the same engine setup as before. We have a 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel engine. This arrives with six-speed automatic or manual transmission. It can rev up the engine with a force of 197 horsepower. This is quite impressive for such a small engine that is powering a mid-size pickup. The other engine is a 2.0-liter bi-turbo four-cylinder engine. It gets 210 horsepower and a bit more torque than the previous engine. The extra torque can come in handy, especially when you spend a lot of time off the paved roads.

Towing and hauling aren’t that impressive, to be honest. It can tow around 6000 pounds and haul 1600 pounds. But after all, this isn’t a simple workhorse pickup. This is an all-wheel driving truck that is ready to climb any obstacle. Of course, there are special air suspensions that improves the quality of the ride. The engine has proven durable and sturdy, even in the harshest conditions. That is the main reason Ford decided to continue using the same engine.

2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak off road

Hybrid and Electric Trucks

But it is a concern of ours that there is a lack of a hybrid version or a fully electric variant. Of course, diesel engines are the best option for unpaved roads, due to their high torque. This gives them the ability to pull heavy vehicles out of difficult terrain. But a hybrid system would reap a lot of benefits as well. The engine wouldn’t be under so much stress.

More torque and horsepower are guaranteed. Not to mention the amount of money you would save on fuel. Which is getting more expensive as you read this. A dual electric motor setup would handle each axle and give power straight to them. They can even run without any fuel, so if you run out you get 40 miles extra. On top of that they have self-regenerating capabilities, so every time you break for example they recharge a bit. An electric variant would give even more power.

Not to mention extra space under the hood since everything would be under the cabin. Perhaps that option is too heavy for the current platform of Wildtrak. So it is too big of a complication to change the whole platform for the sake of electrification. But putting at least 100 kWh battery in the Ranger would do the trick and give it amazing mileage. There is still time for Ford to change things up. Perhaps they surprise us and we get another electric truck made by the Big Blue Oval. We are sure that going green would reap many benefits. Including a bigger share of the market. Everything is steering towards that technology so why not jump early on it.

2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak interior

Interior and Exterior Upgrades

The biggest improvement for this truck is certainly going to be comfortable. New seats are available with better cushioning and lumbar support. Not to mention more material choice in the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak. This can ensure the best enjoyable ride possible while you fly over obstacles. Technology-wise it gets everything other Rangers get. It will arrive with hands-free driving per reports.

On the outside, not much is different from its predecessor. The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak has increased ride height. It still uses 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels to shave off some weight. Of course, off-roading tires are present and they are the 33-inch in diameter. Bumpers are prominent and they have hook and winch capabilities. Under the truck, we have steel skids to protect the underbody. That way you don’t have to worry about getting stranded on something. The cargo bed is classic 5.5 feet with a multifunctional tailgate. There is a special roll-up cover for the cargo bed. The sunroof is probable, and it’s a nice addition so you can enjoy some nice views while driving. The front fascia is large as on every ranger and isn’t any less aggressive.

Fuel Economy

Currently, the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak with the 3.2-liter engine can get between 30mpg and 33 mpg combined driving. It all depends on the terrain you choose. But a hybrid variant would improve the numbers.

2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Price and Release Date

We probably won’t see the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak earlier than the summer of 2023. This is just in time to battle it out with other pickups. Starting price is estimated at around $35000.

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