Designed to Conquer: Engineering for Adventure
Frame and Chassis
The foundation of any capable off-road vehicle is its core design and engineering. The new Ranger’s design philosophy prioritizes strength, durability, and the ability to navigate unforgiving landscapes.
The vehicle boasts a robust frame, constructed from high-strength steel. This sturdy framework provides the necessary rigidity to withstand the stresses of off-roading. The engineering team has focused on improving both torsional and bending stiffness, which are critical for handling uneven surfaces and maximizing control. This robust frame isn’t just about strength; it also contributes to enhanced stability when traversing challenging trails.
Suspension
Suspension is an area where engineers worked diligently. While specific details vary depending on the trim level, expect a suspension system optimized for absorbing impacts and maintaining tire contact with the ground. The design allows for enhanced wheel articulation, ensuring the tires stay grounded even when traversing obstacles. This is vital for maintaining traction and preventing the vehicle from becoming stuck. The Ranger’s suspension is tuned to balance off-road prowess with on-road comfort.
Powertrain and Drivetrain
Beyond the frame and suspension, the drivetrain is a core component of off-road capability. The powertrain options offer potent performance. The selection of engines delivers a blend of power and efficiency, ideal for navigating diverse terrains. Power is delivered through a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system. This advanced 4×4 system offers various modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to the specific demands of the trail.
The system typically features selectable 4×4 high and 4×4 low ranges. The low range is specifically engineered for slow-speed, high-torque situations, such as climbing steep inclines or crawling over rocky surfaces. The electronic locking rear differential is a key feature. This system can lock the rear wheels together, forcing them to rotate at the same speed. This is particularly helpful when one rear wheel loses traction, ensuring that power is transferred to the wheel with grip, maximizing forward momentum.
Essential Technologies for the Trail
The new 2019 Ford Ranger is equipped with advanced technologies designed to make off-roading more accessible and enjoyable. These features allow the Ranger to truly shine when you’re *off road ready*.
Terrain Management System
One of the most innovative advancements is the Terrain Management System. This intelligent system lets the driver choose between different pre-programmed modes. These modes optimize the vehicle’s systems – including engine, transmission, and traction control – for specific types of terrain. Modes available often include:
- Normal: For everyday driving on paved roads.
- Grass/Gravel/Snow: Designed for optimal traction on slippery surfaces.
- Mud/Ruts: Tailored to handle deep mud and uneven terrain.
- Sand: Optimized for soft sand conditions.
- Rock/Crawling: Specifically engineered for traversing rocky and challenging terrain.
The Terrain Management System simplifies the complexities of off-roading, allowing drivers of all skill levels to navigate difficult situations with confidence.
Trail Control
Another significant feature is Trail Control (if available). This feature operates like low-speed cruise control for off-roading. The driver sets a speed, and the system manages the throttle and braking, allowing the driver to focus on steering and the trail ahead. This is incredibly helpful when navigating technical sections or steep descents.
Hill Descent Control
Hill Descent Control is a valuable tool, especially for less experienced off-roaders. This system automatically controls the vehicle’s speed when descending steep inclines, preventing the driver from having to repeatedly use the brake pedal. It ensures a controlled and safe descent.
Key Traits: The Backbone of Off-Road Ability
The specifications of an off-road vehicle are as crucial as the technology. The 2019 Ford Ranger delivers on the important numbers that matter for real-world trail driving.
Ground Clearance
Ground clearance is a pivotal factor in preventing the undercarriage from striking obstacles. The new Ranger offers generous ground clearance, allowing it to clear rocks, logs, and other hazards. This helps to protect crucial components and keeps the vehicle moving forward.
Approach and Departure Angles
Approach and departure angles determine how steep of a slope the Ranger can safely tackle without scraping the front or rear bumpers. The Ranger’s approach and departure angles are optimized to allow the vehicle to climb over steep inclines and descend safely. These angles are meticulously designed to minimize the risk of the vehicle bottoming out.
Skid Plates and Protection
Protection beneath the chassis is essential when driving on rugged terrain. The Ranger includes skid plates. These durable metal plates are strategically placed to protect vital components like the engine, transmission, and fuel tank from damage caused by rocks or other obstacles. This robust underbody protection gives drivers peace of mind when traversing rough trails.
Wheels, Tires, and Accessories
The choice of tires is critical to off-road performance. The new Ranger offers a selection of tires designed for a variety of conditions. Many trims feature all-terrain tires that balance on-road comfort with off-road grip. The all-terrain tires offer improved traction on loose surfaces and provide a more aggressive tread pattern for increased grip.
Beyond the tires, there’s a range of available accessories that enhance off-road capabilities. A bed liner protects the truck bed from damage. Winches, which provide extra pulling power, can be installed for recovery situations.
Gauging the Terrain: Reviews and Real-World Performance
While specifications offer a view of the Ranger’s capabilities, the true measure is in how it performs in the real world. If you desire *the new 2019 Ford Ranger to be off road ready*, early reviews provided valuable insights.
Independent testers have put the Ranger through its paces. These reviews often commend the Ranger’s balanced approach to off-road driving. Reports frequently highlight the effectiveness of the Terrain Management System, simplifying the challenges of navigating diverse terrains.
Videos from test drives often showcase the Ranger’s ability to tackle various obstacles. These visuals demonstrate the ground clearance, the articulation of the suspension, and the effectiveness of the four-wheel-drive system. These videos also provide viewers with an immersive experience.
The Road Ahead: What’s to Come
The new Ford Ranger has proven its promise of being off road ready. It is a well-designed vehicle with a focus on providing a balanced on and off-road experience.
The Ranger is designed to provide an experience that balances capability, comfort, and technology. Ford’s engineers have listened to the needs of off-road enthusiasts and have built a vehicle that can handle the rigors of the trail. Ford understands the demands of the modern driver and has combined ruggedness with comfort.
The 2019 Ford Ranger, and its off-road features, offers a compelling package for those seeking adventure. The vehicle’s future looks bright with continued support and evolution of this capable mid-size pickup truck.
