2021 Ford Ranger 2.2 XL Double Cab (AT) Review

In Malaysia's pickup truck market, practical 4x4 models have always been the go-to choice for construction sites, farms, and outdoor enthusiasts — these vehicles need to handle hauling, rugged roads, and basic everyday comfort for passengers. The 2021 Ford Ranger 2.2 XL Double Cab (AT), as a popular contender in this segment, attracts many users with its balanced performance, durable chassis, and affordable price. This time, we got our hands on the actual vehicle to test its balance between "practical utility" and "daily usability" to see if it can truly meet multi-scenario needs.

Starting with the exterior, this Ranger follows a rugged and practical design theme. The trapezoidal grille at the front combined with Ford's signature blue oval logo provides decent recognition; the black bumper below the grille is free from excessive decoration, aligning with the utilitarian positioning. The side profile of the vehicle features straight lines; its length of 5426mm and wheelbase of 3220mm ensure ample cargo bed and rear seat space. The black plastic cladding around the wheel arches is scratch-resistant, suitable for unpaved roads. The rear design is simple, with vertically arranged taillights and a black rear bumper reflecting the front-end styling. Although halogen lights are not as bright as LEDs, their maintenance cost remains low. Overall, the exterior avoids flashy designs, prioritizing durability and functionality.

Regarding the interior, the layout is simple and straightforward, making it easy to use. The dashboard is made of hard plastic material; while the touch sensation is average, it is dirt-resistant and durable, meeting the needs of frequent outdoor use. At the top of the dashboard is the audio system, with the manual air conditioning control area beneath it. The knobs and buttons offer clear resistance, making it operable even while wearing gloves. A multifunction steering wheel is standard, with the left section integrating volume adjustment and call answering buttons, while the right side features cruise control, facilitating daily use. The seats are fabric and support two-way manual adjustment in the front. Although the adjustment range is limited, the support is good, and long drives are not overly tiring. The rear seat can accommodate three people, and the legroom is just enough for passengers up to 175cm tall; there is a slight floor hump in the middle, but it's manageable for short trips. In terms of storage space, the door storage bins can fit two bottles of mineral water, and there is a storage tray below the dashboard, suitable for placing a phone or wallet. Overall, the storage capacity meets daily usage needs.

As for the powertrain, it is equipped with a 2.2T turbocharged diesel engine delivering a maximum power output of 160PS and a maximum torque that is available between 1600-2600rpm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. During actual driving, the power response at start-up is not very quick, but as the engine speed rises to 1600rpm, the torque output becomes noticeable, making overtaking or climbing hills with the over 2-ton vehicle relatively easy. The transmission shifts smoothly, and gear changes are virtually undetectable during regular driving, while downshifting is responsive when the accelerator is pressed hard. The four-wheel-drive system uses a part-time 4WD setup; switching to 4H mode significantly improves traction on muddy or gravel roads. The minimum ground clearance of 237mm offers decent off-road capability. In terms of suspension, the combination of a front double wishbone independent suspension and a rear leaf spring non-independent suspension filters out most of the bumps on rugged roads, although rear passengers may still feel significant jolts. The chassis remains stable at high speeds, and body roll during cornering is within acceptable limits.

In terms of fuel consumption, we conducted tests under mixed road conditions (40% urban roads, 30% highways, and 30% unpaved roads), and the average fuel consumption was around 8.5L/100km. For a 2.2T diesel 4x4 model, this performance is quite good. With an 80L fuel tank capacity, a full tank can run approximately 900 kilometers, providing strong driving range capability. Regarding noise control, the diesel engine's noise is relatively noticeable at idle, but during driving, wind and tire noise are fairly well-controlled. At 100km/h, normal conversation in the cabin is no problem. Rear parking sensors come standard, but there's no backup camera, so new drivers might need some time to get used to it. The hill-start assist feature is practical, preventing rollback when starting on steep slopes.

To summarize, the core advantages of the 2021 Ford Ranger 2.2 XL Double Cab (AT) lie in its balanced power performance, durable chassis, and decent fuel consumption. Compared to its competitor, the Toyota Hilux 2.4G, this Ranger is more affordable and offers additional features such as a multifunction steering wheel and electrically foldable side mirrors, making it more cost-effective. Its target audience is quite clear: users who need a vehicle that can haul goods and handle construction sites, while occasionally taking the family on outings, such as small business owners, farmers, or outdoor enthusiasts. If you're seeking luxurious configurations or ultimate comfort, this may not be the best choice, but if you value practicality and durability, this is definitely a reliable option.