Words Kayla Cloete
In the era that offers even the humble toothbrush in automatic guises, it seems only appropriate for Ford to add the 2.2 TDCi Automatic range to its new Ranger line-up.
The Auto models are available across all three body styles (Single Cab, Super Cab and Double Cab) and are offered in both 4×2 and 4×4 derivatives across three different specification levels: XL, mid-range XLS and high-spec XLT.
The new 2.2 Duratorq TDCi Autos are fitted with the same six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that is used on the 3.2 models, with identical ratios (1 – 4.171, 2 − 2.312, 3 − 1.521, 4 – 1.143, 5 – 0.867, 6 – 0.691, Reverse – 3.403, Final drive – 3.73).
With 118kW of power and 385Nm of torque, the 2.2 Duratorq mill is not under-specced, and nippier off the line than its brawnier 147kW/470Nm 3.2-litre cousin.
In high-performance ‘Sport’ mode, a simple nudge of the accelerator sees the 2.2 spool up smartly while the gearbox segues between gears almost entirely without your noticing.
In fully Automatic mode, the 2.2-litre four, like its five cylinder cousin, may need a little more encouragement at times, especially when climbing hills or shifting between lower gears.
