2012 Ford Ranger gets hot & sweaty

Ford is still working very hard on the next generation Ranger pick-up truck. Engineers took two RHD diesel prototypes and descended to Death Valley, CA and Colorado to put the newcomer under some hot-weather testing.

Ford engineers are among the most erratic bunch of people within the automotive industry. Our spy photographer said that once engineers saw her, they tried mowing her down! Thankfully, she’s still standing on her own two feet, grabbing us some great photos of the forthcoming Ranger.

Despite still wearing heavy camouflage, both mules are double-cab variants – something that isn’t currently offered in the U.S and are wearing Michigan plates. The 2012 Ranger will be built on a global platform called the T6 that is presently being designed in Australia – compared to the current Ranger pick-ups which only share the same name. The newcomer will be bigger in all dimensions too.

Internally, a less utilitarian interior with a multi-function steering wheel backed up by stylish new dials similar to those in the Fiesta and new Focus will feature.

Engines accessible to customers will be Ford's newest 1.6 litre EcoBoost engine (direct-injection and turbocharged), producing 175bhp and 244Nm (180lb/ft) of torque. However, other sources state the 2.0 litre EcoBoost and 2.5 litre Duratec naturally aspirated petrol engines will be used. On the diesel front, either a 2.2 litre, 3.0 litre or 3.2 litre Duartorq TDCi engines will be available. All engines will use 4 cylinders and be mated to either 6 speed manual or automatic transmissions.

The next-generation Ford Ranger is expected to make its first appearance next year.