2023 Ford Ranger Platinum Review

In Malaysia's pickup truck market, vehicles that combine utility attributes with household comfort have always been the focus of consumer attention. The 2023 Ford Ranger Platinum, positioned as a high-end version of the midsize pickup, highlights its 2.0L twin-turbocharged diesel engine, abundant intelligent configurations, and exceptional comfort as its core selling points, targeting user groups pursuing multifunctionality and a sense of quality. This test drive will comprehensively evaluate its static design, spatial practicality, and dynamic driving experience to see whether it can balance the dual needs of work and family.

In terms of exterior design, the Platinum version continues the rugged style of the Ranger series but appears more refined in details. The front features a large trapezoidal grille paired with chrome trim and LED daytime running lights, ensuring high recognition. The vehicle's body lines are straight, and the sides are equipped with 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, with tire specifications of 255/55 R20, ensuring off-road capabilities while enhancing visual luxury. The rear LED taillights echo the body-colored rear bumper, and the chrome "RANGER" badge on the tailgate reinforces the high-end positioning. The lighting system uses LEDs across the lineup, featuring automatic headlights and front fog lights to meet diverse scenarios, integrating the practicality of a pickup with the aesthetics of a passenger vehicle.

Inside the cabin, the dual-screen setup consisting of a 12.4-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch central touch screen forms the visual centerpiece, with smooth interfaces and wireless Apple CarPlay support, making operations convenient. The interior materials mainly use soft leather and metal trim, while the dual-zone automatic air conditioning, front 10-way power-adjustable memory seats (with 10-way power adjustment also available for the passenger seat) greatly enhance comfort. The rear seats, split 60:40, can be folded down to expand storage space. Regarding space performance, the vehicle has a wheelbase of 3,270 mm, ample legroom in the front row, and a two-fist distance for rear passengers with a height of 175 cm. The storage capacity is practical; the front and rear door panel storage slots can hold large water bottles, the central armrest box has considerable capacity, and the rear row is equipped with air conditioning vents and USB ports. Safety features are comprehensive, with seven airbags, lane departure warning, active braking, 360-degree panoramic cameras, and other functions all included as standard, providing peace of mind for daily use.

In dynamic driving, the 2.0L twin-turbocharged diesel engine delivers 210PS of horsepower and 500N·m of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for swift power response. In normal mode, the start is smooth, and when the accelerator is pressed deeply, the turbo responds promptly, providing strong acceleration in the mid-to-high range and making overtaking easy. Switching to sport mode makes the shifting logic more aggressive, suitable for scenarios requiring strong power. The chassis adopts a front double-wishbone independent suspension with a rear leaf spring structure. When dealing with bumpy roads, the suspension effectively filters out minor vibrations, and rear-row passengers don't experience noticeable jolts. During high-speed cornering, the body roll is controlled within a reasonable range, the steering wheel is precise with minimal play, and the overall handling approaches the flexibility of an SUV. In terms of fuel consumption, the measured value on mixed road conditions is about 8.5L/100km, reflecting the fuel efficiency of a diesel-powered pickup. Noise control is also commendable, with in-cabin noise at 100km/h mainly coming from tire noise, while wind and engine noise are well suppressed, ensuring everyday driving comfort.

Overall, the 2023 Ford Ranger Platinum stands out in its class: its features far surpass competitors like the Toyota Hilux Rogue and Mitsubishi Triton Athlete. Configurations such as dual screens, B&O audio system, and electric seats are more in line with passenger car standards. Its balance of power and handling not only meets cargo needs but also suits daily family commutes. The 5-year/160,000-kilometer warranty policy also enhances buyer confidence. However, the rear leaf spring suspension provides a slightly pronounced road feel when unloaded, and the manually operated rear door lock design is somewhat inconvenient.

This vehicle is suitable for two types of users: first, small and medium-sized business owners who need a pickup truck as a work vehicle while pursuing a comfortable driving experience; and second, outdoor off-road enthusiasts who also need to accommodate family outings. It breaks the traditional "tool-oriented" limitations of pickup trucks, expanding its use cases with a passenger car-like experience. If you're looking for a versatile pickup truck, the Ranger Platinum is worth considering for your shortlist.