Ford’s big investment in research and development, roughly $2 billion over the past six years, has seemed to have paid off, with more connectivity and intelligent convenience as well as safety features headlining many of their cars.
Most recently, Ford Australia has announced that it will be adding even more standard features to the Australian-developed 2017 Ranger. These are, of course, spread across the multiple variants the pick-up comes in, but most will come as standard throughout the range.
For starters, each new Ranger (including the XL Plus) will now receive a rear view camera and reversing parking sensors, while additional front parking sensors will be available for the XLT and up.
In terms of infotainment, the previously standard SYNC2 system will now be upgraded to the more advanced SYNC3 system in the XLT and Wildtrak models, bringing new connectivity features and a more intuitive user interface with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a new 8-inch touchscreen display.
The range-topping Wildtrak also gains extra safety and convenience features as well including some active system such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Alert, Driver Impairment Monitor, automatic high beam control, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Departure Warning.
Additionally, all of the Ranger’s available engines will undergo a minor powertrain upgrade in order to meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
“Standard new features such as rear view camera and SYNC 3 will help our customers get more done at work while staying better connected to their lives,” said Graeme Whickman, CEO and President, Ford of Australia.
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