Ford may be gearing up to release a heavier-duty version of the popular Ranger ute, according to a recent trademark filing. The trademark for the ‘Ranger Super Duty’ badge was spotted in the Philippines, a market that, like Australia, drives on the right side of the road. This new badge suggests that Ford is considering expanding its heavy-duty full-size pick-up range to include a smaller, more versatile option based on the Ranger platform.
While trademarks are not a surefire indication of a new model, they can provide insight into a manufacturer’s future plans. In this case, the Ranger Super Duty could potentially offer increased towing capacity and payload compared to the standard Ranger, making it a compelling option for buyers looking for a more robust vehicle than the current model.
One key advantage of introducing a Ranger Super Duty would be to cater to markets where the larger F-150 is not available. The F-150, which was recently introduced to Australia through a conversion process, is not manufactured in right-hand drive from the factory. By offering a downsized version of the Super Duty based on the Ranger platform, Ford could fill a gap in the market for customers seeking a larger pick-up truck.
In terms of performance, the Ranger Super Duty could see upgrades to its chassis and towing capacity, potentially reaching 4500kg for braked towing. This would be a significant improvement over the current Ranger’s towing capacity of 3500kg. While the Ranger’s largest engine is currently a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6, the Super Duty variant may offer more powerful engine options to match its heavy-duty capabilities.
It’s worth noting that the Ranger Super Duty trademark has not been filed in Australia, indicating that the potential model may be targeted at specific markets where demand for a heavier-duty Ranger variant is high. If Ford decides to move forward with the Ranger Super Duty, it could bring a new level of versatility and performance to the popular Ranger lineup.
Overall, the introduction of a Ranger Super Duty would expand Ford’s range of pick-up trucks and provide customers with more options to suit their towing and hauling needs. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, manufacturers like Ford are exploring new ways to meet consumer demands and stay competitive in the market. With the potential for increased towing capacity, payload, and engine options, the Ranger Super Duty could offer a compelling choice for buyers looking for a robust and capable pick-up truck.