Petaling Jaya, 27 April 2009 - Sime Darby Auto Connexion Sdn Bhd (Auto ConneXion), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Motor Division and the Ford distributor in Malaysia, has launched the stylish new Ford Ranger.

Fully imported from Thailand, the visually exciting new Ranger boasts a host of improvements that are set to reinforce its reputation as the best all-round truck in the market.  

The new Ranger is powered by Ford’s proven 2.5-litre Duratorq turbodiesel engine is best-in-class and is capable of churning out 105 kW/143 PS of power and 330 Nm of torque.  It comes with a choice of automatic or manual transmission. 

The new Ranger TDCi XLT with a 5-speed automatic transmission is priced at RM88,888 (Peninsular Malaysia) and RM92,388 (Sabah and Sarawak) while the Ranger TDCi XLT 5-speed manual transmission is priced at RM82,888 (Peninsular Malaysia) and RM86,388 (Sabah and Sarawak).  All prices quoted exclude registration, road tax and insurance.  

The new Ranger will be available for public viewing, test drives and bookings at Auto ConneXion branches and dealers nationwide from April 29, 2009. As an introductory offer, every new Ranger TDCi XLT purchased will come with a free accessories package worth RM2,000 while stocks last.

Based closely on the widely acclaimed Ranger MAX concept that was first unveiled at the Thailand International Motor Expo last November, the new Ranger exudes a distinct sense of style yet maintains the renowned ‘Built Ford Tough’ heritage.

The new Ranger’s ‘tough yet stylish’ message is clearly evident on the truck’s fascia. The horizontal three-bar grille embossed with “RANGER” lettering, the functional twin black vertical nostrils, the extended opening below the bumper line, and large headlamps that wrap around each front corner effectively establish a new design benchmark as they marry the traditional with the new.

Respected throughout more than 130 markets around the world, the new Ford Ranger effectively combines genuine durability and toughness with a new distinct and muscular exterior design.

“Through the years the Ranger has earned the respect from those who depend on their truck every day,” says Ian Constance, Product Development Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa. “The new Ranger leverages its toughness with Ford's engineering know-how to create a compact truck that is unequalled for its all-around ability and style.”

This blend of strength and style – Ford describes it as Tough Style – defines the new Ranger and brings to the compact truck segment a very high degree of attention to design and detail beyond the competition's offerings.

“Its contemporary design gives the new Ranger instant credibility as an urban vehicle and its versatility makes it a logical lifestyle choice,” says Scott Strong, Design Director, Ford Motor Company, Asia Pacific and Africa. “You’d be proud to be seen driving the new Ranger anywhere, and its strong on-road presence is built upon expert craftsmanship and detailed design.”

All new Ranger models offer AM/FM radio and an MP3-compatible CD player as standard. The audio unit features a digital display that incorporates a clock function. The lower centre console features an integral 12-volt power outlet and AUX input connection for popular MP3 players, such as the Apple iPod.

There is also an array of clever stowage solutions, including a centre stack sunglass storage binnacle, a front-door stowage bin that holds a half-litre water bottle and a handy pull-out tray above the glove compartment.  The sliding tray, extending the width of the passenger side of the dashboard, supports a weight of 10 kilograms and can be used as a work surface.

Those who are serious about off-road driving for either work or recreation will recognise the advantages of the new Ranger's low-range gearing reduction of 2.48:1 (automatic transmission) and 2.02:1 (manual transmission). This exceptionally low gearing combines with the high-torque TDCi engines to make the new Ranger the most capable 4x4 compact pickup to travel beyond where the pavement ends. The underside of is well armoured. Fuel tank, transfer case, engine and transmission are protected by strong steel plating.

The new fully imported Ford Ranger is available at all Ford showrooms nationwide. It also comes standard with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty whichever comes first. For more information, please call Auto ConneXion Voice hotline at 1 800 88 3181.