Ford Pro today unveiled the first model in a new range of premium commercial vehicles called MS-RT: the new Ford Ranger MS-RT.
The new Ranger MS-RT was designed and built as part of a close collaboration between Ford's world team and the specialists at MS-RT - an offshoot of M-Sport, Ford's long-standing rally partner. Featuring a unique combination of stunning looks inspired by motorsport, an enhanced driving experience and exceptional load-carrying capacity, the new Ford Ranger MS-RT is set to change the face of the pick-up truck segment.
"We are delighted to add the Ranger MS-RT to the Ford Pro portfolio, offering an exciting factory option that appeals to customers who need a professional vehicle that is also a manifesto for their business," said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro Europe. "More customers want a professional vehicle for the weekdays that also supports their weekend lifestyle. This new MS-RT signature vehicle is the perfect answer."
The MS-RT version is based on the next-generation platform and combines bold looks with significant engineering upgrades. Specifically, the new Ranger MS-RT is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine and uses a unique suspension setup and different wheels to enhance its asphalt capabilities and make it the "ultimate street pick-up".
As the flagship model in the Ranger range, the fully connected commercial vehicle is also integrated with Ford Pro's software and connected services platform, including integrated charging solutions for electric models, management tools from Ford Pro Telematics and the FordPass Pro app, as well as the FORDLiive system, among others. All of these solutions help small businesses reduce ownership costs, maximise vehicle uptime and optimise productivity.
Customers in Greece can order the new Ford Ranger MS-RT from Ford Pro Official Dealers in spring this year, with deliveries starting in the summer.
New Ford Ranger MS-RT
The Ford Ranger MS-RT is designed to be the 'ultimate road pick-up', with a muscular design that draws inspiration from motorsport. The Ford Pro luxury pick-up is powered by Ford's powerful 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, delivering a maximum power output of 240 PS and 600 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD permanent four-wheel drive system found in other models of the new Ranger. Also, the all-new MS-RT version retains the same load-carrying capacity of up to 1 tonne and the same 3,500 kg towing capacity of the all-new Ranger.
Visually, the front end of the new Ranger MS-RT draws inspiration from the extreme versions of the model used in racing events in Asia, exuding an intense dynamism thanks to the honeycomb grille and integrated splitter.
The overall silhouette of the vehicle is lowered thanks to the sculpted shape of the side skirts, while at the rear the air diffuser is integrated into the distinctive bumper design. The tailgate is adorned with MS-RT graphics and an exclusive ducktail spoiler - this is complemented by another spoiler installed high up on the cabin trim. This unique combination of aerodynamic aids on the new Ford Ranger MS-RT was optimised through computer simulations to achieve overall aerodynamic balance and enhance vehicle stability at high speeds.
Exclusive diamond-cut light alloy wheels with a 21-inch diameter - the largest ever offered on any model in the Ranger range - are paired with low-profile 275/45 R21 tyres. These impressive wheels are now housed in enlarged wheel arches, extending the overall width of the vehicle by 82mm both front and rear. The track has also been increased by 40 mm at the front and rear to improve traction and stability.
The car's suspension has been optimised to achieve the ideal balance between total control and comfort. Thus, the new Ranger MS-RT includes a different rear setup, tighter front shock absorbers, while the overall height is now reduced by 40 mm. All this ensures the new Ranger MS-RT has a sportier look, combined with greater handling precision and cornering stability.
"If the Ranger Raptor is the ultimate pick-up for off-road use, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate pick-up for the road," said Hans Schep. "It's something different from what we usually see in this segment in Europe. With driving qualities more reminiscent of a passenger car and with unchanged towing and load-carrying capacity, we believe it will be an attractive new option for customers in the pick-up segment."
The distinctive interior of the two-door model features unique new sports seats that provide improved comfort and better support for the front passenger's body. Non-animal eco-leather and suede, combined with the distinctive MS-RT trim pattern and distinctive blue stitching, adorn both the front and rear seats. MS-RT logos can be found on the front of the seats as well as an additional badge on the dashboard. The sports steering wheel is heated, has blue markings for the straight line position and an MS-RT logo insert.
From launch the new Ford Ranger MS-RT will be available in a range of colours, which includes Conquer Grey, with mirror covers and door handles painted in Agate Black. Standard equipment includes a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, electronically controlled dual-zone automatic climate control, front and rear park assist, rear view camera, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Limiter, among others.
New generation of models MS–RT
MS-RT, which stands for M-Sport Road Technology, was born out of founder Edward Davies' partnership with M-Sport in 2015. M-Sport has a long history of working with Ford to develop and build its rally cars, such as the new Ford Puma Rally1, and also prepares vehicles that compete in Global Rallycross and GT3 racing.
MS-RT's specialist team utilises M-Sport's DNA, as demonstrated through its participation in various racing events, to build modified road vehicles with a unique sporting character. The company has previously developed modified versions of the previous generation Transit Custom, Transit Connect and Ranger models. This new partnership builds on that heritage.
The new Ranger MS-RT will be available from Ford Pro dealers across Europe. Final assembly and finishing of the new models will take place at a dedicated new facility located on the Ford Dagenham Estate in the UK. This is a state-of-the-art facility, close to the Ford Pro engineering team's base at the Ford Dunton Campus, which includes a design and engineering studio, a semi-automatic paint shop and two assembly lines. It also includes a dedicated customer service team.
