It seems like Ford there may be some lingering plans for its new generation forest ranger scruffy.
On June 3, we were able to capture exclusive images of what looks like a longer version of the Ford Ranger while parked at IKEA in Melbourne.
Seemingly normal from the cabin forward, this scout Ranger prototype was left-drive and had a longer trunk than the regular double cab with more space between the rear doors and the rear wheels. There is also a side outlet on the right side.
It’s not clear how long this spy prototype actually lasts compared to the existing 2023 Ford Ranger dual-cab, but on the images it looks like a 25-30cm extra long car.
The spy prototype barely fits in a parking lot, and it makes Toyota Yaris parked in front of it looks miniature.
Although Ford Australia has not detailed the exterior dimensions of the old Ranger, Ford Thailand says the regular double hi-rider is 5370mm long, 1918mm wide and 1884mm wide, with a wheelbase of 3270mm.
According to the fabrication label for the longer tub on the spy prototype, it was made in China in December 2021 and is a one-time product.
Inside the tub is a 12V outlet and a 400V inverter with an American plug. Australian imported Ranger models do not currently receive this 400V inverter.
There are also several tie points in the tub, as well as load box access covers for accessories such as canopies and equipment crossbars. Click here to see all the smart tub details of the 2022 Ford Ranger.
One odd omission from the longer vehicle on this scouting prototype are the steps up and down behind the rear wheel. It’s not clear why these aren’t on this prototype but it could be related to the side exhaust.
As detailed previously, Ford Australia once again leads the global development program for the Rangers.
This means that Blue Oval’s local division will not only work on the Ranger that will be sold in Australia, but also the North American, South American and African markets.
Ford previously said that the new generation Ranger will be sold in a total of 180 markets.
It’s unclear what’s underneath the bonnet of this long-wheelbase camouflage prototype as there’s usually a plaque where the side indicator shows what powertrain the vehicle has. This board is blank on the spy prototype.
Ford Australia currently offers the Rangeronnect with a total of four different turbocharged powertrains.
These include a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel producing 125kW and 405Nm of torque, a 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo four-cylinder diesel producing 154kW and 500Nm, and a 3.0 turbo-diesel engine liter six-cylinder produces 184kW and 600Nm and the 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 produces 292kW and 583Nm.
The second of these engines is currently reserved for the baja-ready Ranger Raptor.
An extended wheelbase is not an unfamiliar concept, with automakers such as Ssangyong, LDV and Volkswagen already offering manufacturer-backed options.
Ssangyong is currently providing Musso Dual cab in XLV guise has a longer wheelbase.
This gives it a 300mm longer tub, providing an additional 251L of capacity. The wheelbase is also 110mm longer than the regular Musso.
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Ssangyong Musso XLV -
Volkswgen Amarok XL
Other additions include an extra 20Nm of torque, bringing the total to 420Nm, and extra load capacity.
Volkswagen has been providing Amarok auto in two vehicles with different longer wheelbases as of 2020.
The Volkswagen Amarok XL and XXL are factory-assisted conversions carried out locally by Adaptive Automotive of Adelaide.
The Amarok XL has a longer wheelbase of 310 mm and the Amarok XXL has a longer wheelbase of 650 mm.
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LDV T60 Mega Tub
Besides increasing the wheelbase, Volkswagen also reprogrammed the electronic stability control system to compensate for the longer wheelbase. There are also three focused elevation programs.
LDV previously offered its last generation T60 dual taxis in what it calls the Mega Tub guise. It’s 315mm longer than the standard T60 and has a 275mm longer tub.
The Chinese automaker has now locally sold its updated T60 Max dual-cab, which is not currently available in a longer-wheelbase Mega Tub version.
It is unclear whether this long-wheelbase Ford Ranger prototype will enter production, nor if it will be offered in Australia.
Seeing this prototype is driving on the left, don’t hold your breath immediately.
Like details beforeOld Ford Ranger regular will arrive on Australian shores in July 2022, based on Ranger Everest Moutain Then there’s the SUV and the Ranger Raptor in August.
Click on an image to see the entire gallery.
THAN: Everything Ford Ranger
