The Blue Oval is now able to compete with mid-sized trucks like GMC, Chevrolet, and Jeep by having a diesel Ford Ranger.
New spy photos seem to capture the Ford Ranger, possibly with a diesel engine in development in the United States. This theory is supported by some unusual equipment under the truck.
This truck’s exterior looks almost stock except that Ford has covered up some trim and logos. The photos below the pickup are low-angle. A huge concealment panel covers the area where the driveshaft would normally be. A strange canister is located in the area where you’d normally see the exhaust. Additional equipment can be found in the bed.
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This equipment is a sign that Ford may be doing something with the truck’s powertrain. Our spy suggests that engineers may be working on a diesel engine.
Ford has updated the European-market Ranger with a new diesel engine for the 2019 model year. A 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine is available with 130 horsepower (97kilowatts), 170 hp (127 kW), and a single turbo, or a 210 hp (257 kW) tune with twin turbos. These engines can be connected to either a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes all-wheel drive.
Ford could use this test mule to fine-tune the emissions of the 2.0-liter turbodiesel to adapt it for American markets. The Ranger’s resulting version would compete against the 2.8-liter, 181 hp turbodiesel Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon. It could also be a strong competitor to the Jeep Gladiator which produces 260 hp (194kW).