The Ford Ranger MS-RT.
The Ford Ranger MS-RT.
While the van might hold the edge over pick-up trucks here in the UK in terms of popularity, Ford’s Ranger remains an excellent choice for those looking for both pulling power and load space. While it’s never been much of a slouch when it comes to style, it’s getting a sporty upgrade thanks to Ford customisation specialists MS-RT.
For years, MS-RT have been the go-to upgrade engineers for Ford Transit vans, adding rally-inspired body kits and premium interiors to Ford’s ever-reliable workhorses. They have 30 years of motor-racing experience behind them and use their engineering skills to fuse Ford vehicles with a sporty edge, all while keeping them affordable. They’ve also been awarded Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) status by Ford, which means they meet set standards when it comes to manufacturing and quality control. As all this conversion work is guaranteed by MS-RT, it doesn’t affect your Ford warranty and the vehicles are approved for sale in Ford dealers like Arnold Clark as well.
MS-RT’s new model is based on the range-topping Ford Ranger Wildtrak, which is a pretty decent starting point. Under the bonnet you’ll find Ford’s 2.0-litre twin-turbo Eco-Blue diesel engine (often found in performance Mustangs) which provides a generous 210bhp and 369lb ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic gearbox to provide plenty of pulling power to all four wheels and traction where you need it. That all adds up to enable a towing weight of 3,500kg or a payload of 1,098kg. But just take a look at it and you’ll see substantial differences to the standard Ranger.
The wheels are probably the first thing you’ll notice; 20-inch OZ racing alloys create an imposing look and, to accommodate these, the wheel arches have been extended and new side skirts added. There’s also a hand-built front fascia with a honeycomb carbon fibre-effect grille with integrated fog lights. MS-RT offer a choice of colours too, with Frozen White, Sea Grey and Agate Black paints available. It’s all topped off with an aerodynamic load-bar, stylish mirror caps and MR-ST badges.
You’ll find premium leather trim throughout the cabin, contrasted with sporty orange stitching. There’s plenty of MS-RT details to be found with branding on the bespoke floormats and scuff plates. The environment is enhanced by ambient lighting and you’ll always remain comfortable with heated seats as standard.
Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with 8-inch touchscreen means that entertainment and navigation systems are always at your fingertips. Parking and hitching a trailer have never been simpler with a rear-view camera system. You’ll also get a heated front windscreen, bi-xenon headlights and, as you’d expect from a pick-up truck, roof rails and underbody protection.
