Last week marked the official unveiling of the new 2023 Ford Ranger Platinum by Sime Darby Auto Connexion, the flagship addition to the “regular” Ranger pick-up truck lineup in Malaysia. In addition to offering greater luxury than the WildTrak, the Platinum version will cost RM183,888 on the road, which is around RM15k more than the WildTrak.
A new variant-specific front grille with a chrome pin-like mesh design, satin-silver external elements, a set of 20-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with highway terrain tyres, and the ‘Platinum’ badges on the bonnet and tailboard are all included for the extra money.
The more interesting exterior modifications are located at the back, notably, the new Flexible Rack System that consists of “swing-in-place” roof racks and a sliding load rack, giving drivers greater freedom to haul larger objects like kayaks and surfboards. In keeping with its high-end status, the Ranger Platinum also gets a tailboard damper and a powered roller shutter for the cargo compartment.
With the exception of these new features, the equipment list is the same as that of the Ranger WildTrak which includes the full LED tail lights, recognisable integrated side steps behind the rear wheel wells, and Matrix LED projector headlights with the g-clamp daytime running lights and auto dynamic levelling. Previously available only on the Everest, Equinox Bronze is now a Platinum exclusive on the Ranger.
The interior of the new Ranger Platinum in Malaysia is tastefully decorated, featuring new black quilted leather upholstery with white cross-stitching. The front seats also feature 10-way power adjustment and heating and ventilation features.
As the new range-topper, it is identified by “Platinum” badging on the front seats, dashboard, and premium floor mats with a superb Bang & Olufsen sound system a cabin highlight.
The interior employs an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad, a massive 12-inch vertical central infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The premium pick-up truck’s safety features remain the same as those of the WildTrak, including evasive steer assist, reverse brake assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-go functionality, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with lane keeping and centering assist, and autonomous emergency braking with support for cyclists, pedestrians, and junction traffic.
The Ranger Platinum is still powered by the same 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, bi-turbodiesel engine that produces 210 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and an e-Locking rear differential, channeling power to all four wheels.
As mentioned above, the on-road price of the new Ford Ranger Platinum is RM183,888 and that comes with a five-year/160,000-km warranty that can be extended to seven years and 200,000 kms at an extra cost.