The Ford Ranger II Super Cab, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2009 to 2011, represented a significant update to Ford’s popular mid-size pickup truck. This iteration of the Ranger, sold primarily in Europe, South Africa, Australia, and Latin America, offered a blend of practicality, durability, and affordability. The 2.5 TDCi 4×4 variant, producing 143 horsepower, occupied a middle ground in the Ranger lineup, appealing to buyers needing a capable workhorse with reasonable fuel efficiency. It was positioned as a step up from the base engine options, offering increased torque for towing and hauling, while remaining more accessible than the higher-output diesel versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Generation | Ranger II Super Cab (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TDCi (143 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 1800 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | WLAA |
| Engine displacement | 2499 cm3 (152.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1845 kg (4067.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2985 kg (6580.8 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1140 kg (2513.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5080 mm (200 in.) |
| Width | 1788 mm (70.39 in.) |
| Height | 1762 mm (69.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 230 mm (9.06 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent torsion bar, double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Dependent suspension of two longitudinal semi-elliptic leaf springs |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15; 245/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ranger variant is the 2.5-liter WLAA TDCi inline-four diesel engine. This engine, a product of Ford’s collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën, utilizes a common-rail direct injection system to deliver fuel directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressure. This technology, combined with a variable geometry turbocharger and intercooler, optimizes combustion for improved power and efficiency. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a robust cast iron block, contributing to its durability. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its simplicity and reliability. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance fuel economy with the engine’s torque characteristics, providing adequate pulling power for typical pickup truck duties.
Driving Characteristics
The 143 horsepower and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 2.5 TDCi engine provided a respectable, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, making it suitable for everyday driving and moderate towing. Compared to the higher-output diesel versions of the Ranger, this variant felt less strained during acceleration and offered a more relaxed driving experience. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, but the gear ratios weren’t particularly sporty. The 4×4 system, typically part-time with selectable 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, provided enhanced traction on loose surfaces, making it capable off-road. However, it wasn’t designed for extreme off-roading, focusing instead on providing surefootedness in challenging conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5 TDCi 4×4 Super Cab typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as a work-oriented vehicle. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power steering, and a basic audio system. The interior was functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, available as options, could add features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and power windows. The Super Cab configuration offered a small rear seating area, suitable for occasional passengers, but primarily used for cargo.
Chassis & Braking
The Ranger II Super Cab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent torsion bars and double wishbones, offering a reasonable level of ride comfort. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup, prioritizing load-carrying capacity over refinement. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.5 TDCi 4×4 Ranger was generally well-received as a practical and reliable workhorse. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, particularly compared to larger pickup trucks. However, some noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of some competitors. Compared to the higher-output diesel versions of the Ranger, the 2.5 TDCi offered a more affordable entry point, but at the expense of performance. It also provided a more economical alternative to the petrol-powered Rangers. Its main competitors included the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, and Mitsubishi L200.
Legacy
The Ford Ranger II Super Cab 2.5 TDCi 4×4 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The WLAA engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system. In the used car market, these Rangers are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. They represent a good value for buyers needing a capable pickup truck without the expense of a newer, more sophisticated model. The Ranger II, and this variant in particular, helped solidify Ford’s reputation for building tough and dependable trucks.
