2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X price and specs: new off-road variant added

The continual expansion of the Ranger lineup has seen the Wildtrak X join the fray, armed with upgrades usually reserved for the top-spec grades

Unveiling its newest off-road powerhouse, Ford Australia introduces a new special edition for 2023 – the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X, a remarkable blend of the Wildtrak and Raptor models. This exciting addition resurrects a nameplate last witnessed in 2021 and is eagerly anticipated to grace Australian showrooms in the latter half of 2023.

Priced at an introductory cost of $75,990 before accounting for on-road expenses, the Ranger Wildtrak X makes a significant statement. It stands $4800 pricier than its Wildtrak V6 sibling, while undercutting the high-end Ranger Platinum V6 by a mere $1000.

Under the hood, the Wildtrak X houses an exclusive 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel powerhouse, a four-cylinder engine capable of generating an impressive 150kW of power and a hefty 500Nm of torque. This robust engine couples with a smooth, 10-speed automatic transmission.

The unique selling point of this Ranger variant is its full-time four-wheel-drive system incorporating a 4A mode for pavement usage. This sets it apart from other Ranger Bi-Turbo variants featuring a part-time four-wheel-drive system.

Marking a significant achievement in Ford's environmental efforts, the Ranger Wildtrak X emerges as the initial variant complying with Light Duty Truck Euro 6 emissions standards, hence necessitating the use of AdBlue. The combination of the Euro 6-compliant 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine and full-time four-wheel drive is already employed in the Everest model.

One of the distinct selling points of the Ranger Wildtrak X is its bespoke suspension system. This setup, optimized for touring and payload, includes Bilstein position-sensitive dampers with a nitrogen-charged external reservoir and a monotube design.

Complementing its unique suspension system, the Wildtrak X features 17-inch alloy wheels enveloped in 265/70 R17 General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres as standard. The modified suspension system and all-terrain tyres enable the Wildtrak X to achieve 30mm more front and rear track width than the original Wildtrak, along with an additional 26mm ground clearance.

The exterior of the Ranger Wildtrak X stands out with its exclusive Cyber Orange paintwork, previously seen on the Bronco off-roader. Additional exterior features include a new off-road grille design with integrated LED lights, a steel bash plate, cast aluminium side steps, Wildtrak X badging, Matrix LED headlights, and black exterior highlights.

Inside the cabin, the Wildtrak X impresses with its larger 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, a high-end B&O sound system, and an overhead auxiliary switch bank for aftermarket accessories. The interiors showcase leather-accented seats with Miko suede, embroidered with Wildtrak X on the seat backs, upper glove box, and all-weather front and rear floor mats. Cyber Orange contrast stitching adds an extra touch of style.

The Wildtrak X also introduces Ford's Flexible Rack System, a recently introduced feature offering two primary components adjustable for carrying a variety of items. The vehicle comes with multiple off-road-focused modes to help drivers navigate challenging terrains with ease.

The off-road modes include Trail Turn Assist, designed for navigating tight turns on narrow tracks, and Trail Control, which maintains a consistent low-speed while off-roading. The Rock Crawl mode aids in tackling uneven, rocky terrain in a controlled manner. The exact number of Ford Ranger Wildtrak X units destined for Australia remains unclear at this stage.

The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak X, complete with its impressive features and rugged aesthetics, is set to challenge its rivals and enthral enthusiasts in the latter half of the year.