Is the Ford Ranger Super Duty the best new 4x4 in decades?

The Ford Ranger Super Duty delivers what is, to us, the only new vehicle segment in recent memory. 

It might be based on an existing vehicle, but there’s nothing else like it on the market right now; certainly in Australia and possibly globally. And it was conceived and developed right here on home soil.

The Super Duty delivers levels of load-carrying and towing capacity that have, until now, never been seen in the midsize 4×4 category. Its capacities exceed what some full-size American pick-ups can haul in some markets, and it does it all while maintaining a footprint close to the standard Ranger.

While the Super Duty was conceived following Ford talks with fleet owners, tradespeople, workers and farmers, its capabilities make it equally valuable to the recreational 4×4 tourer and off-roader. The 4500kg towing capacity and 8000kg GCM will put it on the shopping list of many people who tow heavy trailers.

The larger tyres fitted to it as standard open the door to legal 35-inch tyres, subject to local regulations, while the inclusion of front and rear locking diffs and proper underbody protection make it a four-wheel driver’s dream ute.

The cab-chassis variants have been on sale for six months now and include the options of single-, double- and extra-cab bodies. Now the double-cab pick-up model has arrived on the scene with a traditional ute tub, while the XLT grades add cabin niceties the base models were missing. Again, this new specification will appeal to many recreational 4×4 buyers.

Queenslander Joe Evans saw the potential in the Ranger Super Duty and was an early customer with his aluminium-bodied rig. Joe has given it a comprehensive build with top-shelf parts and is already enjoying the fruits of his labour for touring and as a work vehicle.

We’ve also reviewed the XLT and pick-up models after taking them to the spectacular Bendleby Ranges. And keep an eye out for our next Club 4×4 comparison between the Super Duty and the vehicle it targeted from the outset, the LandCruiser 79 Series.

Ford Australia didn’t just create a new vehicle in the Ranger Super Duty, it created a winner, as it truly exceeds expectations. I’ll go as far as saying it’s the best new 4×4 offering we have seen in decades.