The Ford Ranger Wildtrak: A Premium Workhorse for the Post-Storm Landscape

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the true value of a capable pickup truck has never been more apparent in Jamaica. While SUVs often dominate the school run, it is the utilitarian nature of the pickup that becomes indispensable when the elements turn against us. Traversing the main roads to Santa Cruz recently, the landscape told a story of resilience. I saw countless pickups, their beds laden with lumber, zinc, and hardware supplies, ferrying the building blocks of recovery to homeowners desperate to rebuild. It is in this context— where water and debris still claim sections of our roadway— that the Ford Ranger Wildtrak makes its most compelling argument.

Ford has long enjoyed dominance in the United States with the F-150, a cultural icon of American motoring. The brand is clearly attempting to mirror this success locally with the Ranger, positioning it not just as a tool but as a lifestyle choice. While the company has found modest success with the halo-model Ford Raptor — affectionately dubbed the ‘uptown Probox’ for its ubiquity in wealthier circles — the Wildtrak offers a more grounded proposition. Interestingly, in a recent conversation with the local dealership, Kingston Industrial Garage (KIG) Ltd, I was informed that they are currently selling more of the 3.0-litre V6 variant than the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo despite the latter being the less expensive option. It seems like the Jamaican appetite for power is insatiable even when the smaller engine is more than capable.

Evolution and Distinctions

To understand where the Wildtrak sits, one must look at the hierarchy. The Ranger line-up typically starts with the XLT, a utilitarian workhorse focused on function. The Wildtrak sits in the middle (though leaning heavily towards premium), offering advanced tech and comfort while retaining the load-lugging leaf springs. The Raptor is the off-road thoroughbred, distinguished by its coil-spring rear suspension and Fox racing shocks, designed for high-speed desert running rather than hauling pallets of cement.

The Ranger has a storied history, originally launching as a compact truck before evolving into the mid-size global platform we know today. We are currently in the ‘Next-Generation’ (T6.2) era, a substantial evolution that debuted globally around 2022. It is a Double Cab body type, balancing the need for passenger space with a functional cargo bed, a configuration that has become the industry standard for this segment.

Outside

The exterior design language of this new generation is a deliberate departure from the softer curves of its predecessor. It is boxier, more upright, and clearly borrows DNA from its big brother, the F-150. The C-clamp LED headlights are the most striking improvement, framing a wider, more aggressive grille that gives the vehicle a commanding presence on the road.

Compared to the previous generation, the wheelbase has been extended by 50mm, and the track widened by the same amount. This pushes the wheels farther out to the corners, improving the visual stance, and, more importantly, the approach and departure angles. Ford has also added a practical side step integrated behind the rear wheels — a simple but brilliant addition that makes accessing the bed significantly easier without having to climb onto the tyre.

Interior

Stepping inside, the Wildtrak feels less like a contractor’s rig and more like a modern SUV. The cabin is dominated by a massive portrait-oriented infotainment screen (12-inch) running Ford’s SYNC 4A system. It is crisp, responsive, and miles ahead of the dated interfaces found in some of its competitors.

The material quality is high, with soft-touch finishes and the signature Wildtrak orange stitching adding a sense of occasion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, seamlessly connecting your digital life to the vehicle. However, it is not just about screens; the ergonomics are sound. The driving position is commanding, and there is ample storage for bottles and phones — crucial for long drives across parishes.

Driving Experience

For this review, I piloted the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel variant. While the market may be clamouring for the V6, this engine is adequate and responsive. It produces 207 horsepower (210 PS) and 500 Nm of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission that shuffles gears imperceptibly to keep the engine in its sweet spot.

However, do not mistake this for the plush ride of the Raptor. The drive was on the firmer side, a direct result of the configuration, especially the leaf spring suspension at the rear. This setup is the industry standard for load-carrying vehicles, designed to support heavy payloads like cement bags and building materials without sagging. When empty, the rear can feel a bit jittery over broken pavement — a common trait in this class — but it settles down nicely once you add some weight to the bed.

Ground clearance is a healthy 235mm, allowing you to straddle debris and floodwaters with confidence. The handling is surprisingly sharp for a high-riding vehicle; the wider track provides better stability in corners though you are always aware of the vehicle’s size and weight.

Specifications and Competition

Vehicle: Ford Ranger Wildtrak (Next-Gen)

Body Type: Double Cab Pickup

Engine Tested: 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel (3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel also available)

Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic

Suspension: Independent double wishbone (Front) / Leaf springs (Rear)

Dimensions: 5370mm (L) x 1918mm (W) x 1884mm (H)

Wading Depth: 800mm

Competition:

Toyota Hilux: The perennial favourite in Jamaica, known for unbreakable reliability but lagging in technology and ride refinement.

Mitsubishi L200: A value-driven proposition that is capable but feels aged compared to the fresh Ranger.

Nissan Frontier: A strong contender with a comfortable ride and cheaper price tag, though it lacks the interior flair of the Ford.

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak successfully bridges the gap between a rugged tool and a comfortable family hauler. While the ride’s firmness reminds you of its utilitarian roots, its tech-heavy interior and modern design make it a compelling choice for those who need a vehicle that works as hard as it plays.

Vehicle was provided courtesy of Kingston Industrial Garage Ltd, 923-6479, sales@kigjamaica.com