Next generation Ford Ranger XLT spotted

What you’re viewing here is the 2019 Ford Ranger XLT undergoing cold weather testing. In this sighting, however, the prototype is wearing the production front fascia for the first time. On a lighter note, it was just last week that our spy photographers shot the Ranger FX4 with its higher ground clearance and different styling.

Despite this Ranger XLT looking similar to the earlier spotted FX4, the XLT stands out, thanks to its lower ground clearance and skinnier tyres. These traits, along with the black air deflector beneath the front bumper (replacing the skid plate) strongly demonstrate the road-going character of this Ranger XLT. When it comes to looks, we also noticed that the XLT’s grille has its own characteristic styling that’s different to the FX4. However, it goes without saying that both vehicles borrow heavily from the design cues of their elder sibling, the F-150.

Although Ford hasn’t revealed the engine specs of the upcoming Ranger XLT, sources realise that this vehicle is available with a 3.2-litre diesel motor in some markets. The question is, will this diesel variant make it to the US market after all? Having said this, it will however have access to a range of four-cylinder and six-cylinder EcoBoost engines that will primarily use the new ten-speed automatic gearbox (co-developed with GM).

Reports state that Ford’s new Ranger will debut sometime in the first half of 2018, possibly at the 2018 NAIAS auto show in Detroit. We will have more news for you then.