2023 Ford Ranger V6 v 4-cylinder: Dragparison

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One massive query patrons are asking themselves is, ought to they go for the hyped new V6 diesel engine or save themselves $3000 and go for the bi-turbo 4 as a substitute?

Positive, the V6 affords extra oomph, full-time 4×4, and bragging rights, however excessive demand means you’ll probably be ready longer for yours than for those who go for the four-cylinder, which additionally occurs to drink a bit much less gas.

We’ve managed to get a Ranger V6 in mid-range XLT guise (priced at $64,190 earlier than on-road prices), alongside a four-cylinder Ranger Wildtrak ($67,190).

Whereas the XLT’s V6 engine is about 30kg heavier, the Wildtrak four-cylinder comes with extra gear, so the precise weight distinction seems to be about 10kg. Bugger all…

One different level to notice: it was severely moist at our take a look at facility, so whereas the comparative occasions are nonetheless helpful, dry tarmac would naturally result in faster efforts for each.

Right here, Paul Maric presents an in depth video placing two Ford Rangers head-to-head. Make sure to watch the embed above, or click on by to our YouTube channel.

Ford Ranger V6 v 4-cylinder assessments

Paul and the crew put this pair in opposition to a number of take a look at procedures:

• A fundamental sound comparability, seeing which has the perfect exhaust notice
• A number of 0-100km/h occasions for each
• Head-to-head drag race over 1/8 mile
• Earlier 1/4 mile comparative sprints

We made positive to play with completely different drive ‘modes’ and numerous setups for the 4×4 programs the place appropriate, in addition to turning off the traction controls. Each Rangers have been working on all-terrain tyres, however from completely different manufacturers.

Ford Ranger V6 engine specs

The 3.0-litre V6 ‘Lion’ single-turbo diesel is obtainable within the Ranger XLT and above, making 184kW of energy at 3250rpm and 600Nm torque from 1750rpm, mated to a 10-speed computerized.

It runs a everlasting 4×4 system with road-oriented ‘4A’ AWD in addition to conventional 2H (rear-drive for gas saving), 4H (high-range) and 4L (low-range) modes as nicely.

Enjoyable reality: This engine derives from the one used within the Ford F-150, however naturally the smaller Ranger offered some packaging challenges.

Ford Australia modified out the oil pan, made it prepared for higher tilt angles, modified out the turbo and intakes, and examined it another time.

Ford Ranger 4-cylinder specs

Supplied throughout the vary is a revised model of the acquainted 2.0-litre bi-turbo (with bypass) diesel four-cylinder, providing one smaller and one bigger turbo to clean out energy supply.

It makes 154kW of energy at 3750rpm (down 3kW from the outdated mannequin) and 500Nm torque between 1750 and 2000rpm, mated to a 10-speed auto with new torque-converter.

Base fashions supply 4×2 however right here now we have the 4×4 which, in contrast to within the V6, is part-time. This implies it defaults to rear-wheel drive on tarmac however could be switched into 4H or 4L.

Since this engine launched throughout a mid-life replace for the outdated PX Ranger, Ford has modified out the diesel injectors, added quieter electrical cooling followers and a brand new polyurethane cowl to assist NVH suppression, modified the seals, and re-calibrated the entire setup.

Ford Ranger V6 v 4-cylinder efficiency figures

Finest occasions listed

Verdict

So, the V6 proved 1.4 seconds faster to 100km/h of their respective 0-100km/h sprints. However within the head-to-head drag races over 200m and 400m, there was solely a 0.6 second hole.

It appears probably that Ford has capped the V6’s total outputs right here, however for many who want the additional grunt – significantly those that tow – it nonetheless looks like the higher wager.

Subsequent step? Perhaps Ranger V6 versus outgoing Amarok V6 in one other drag?

MORE REVIEWS: 2023 Ford Ranger review
MORE REVIEWS: 2023 Ford Ranger Sport V6 review
MORE REVIEWS: 2023 Ford Ranger XLT V6 review

Eager on extra drag races? Click on beneath!

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