Revisions for the sales giant include including the 2.0-litre biturbo at base level.

SEVERAL updates implementing in the Ford Ranger for what is likely its final full year of sale have been announced in its country of birth – but the impact on this side of the Tasman has yet to be clarified.

The most relevant change to the NZ market-dominating model for Kiwis is that the XLT variant heavily favoured here adopts adaptive cruise control as standard. This feature allows the vehicle to 'latch' on to the vehicle ahead and maintain a safe following distance.

The base XL variants that achieve big penetration in Australia can now be ordered with the 2.0-litre 157kW/500Nm bi-turbodiesel and 10-speed automatic in four-wheel-drive and our neighbour is also offered the additional choice of a new 4x2 XL Sport dual cab variant.

Adaptive cruise control –– now comes standard on all Ranger XLT Series pick-ups.

Ranger XL 4x4 variants are now for the first time available with the 2.0-litre bi-turbo powertrain option.

As the most powerful engine in the line-up, the bi-turbo puts out 157kW/500Nm. This is sent to the ground via a 10-speed automatic transmission