The Ford Ranger III Double Cab, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2015 to 2018, represented a significant evolution of Ford’s mid-size pickup truck for the global market. While not initially sold in the United States during this generation, the Ranger III was a popular choice in Europe, Australia, South Africa, and parts of Asia. The 2.2 TDCi 160 horsepower 4×4 Automatic variant occupied a middle ground in the Ranger lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It aimed to appeal to buyers needing a versatile vehicle for both work and family duties, without the higher price tag or performance focus of the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Generation | Ranger III Double Cab (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TDCi (160 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 3700 rpm |
| Torque | 385 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (283.96 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2198 cm3 (134.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.55 l (9.03 US qt | 7.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.9 l (12.57 US qt | 10.47 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2119 kg (4671.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1081 kg (2383.2 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5277-5354 mm (207.76 – 210.79 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1815-1848 mm (71.46 – 72.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3220 mm (126.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Rear track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1149-1226 mm (45.24 – 48.27 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 223-237 mm (8.78 – 9.33 in.) |
| Approach angle | 28° |
| Departure angle | 28° |
| Ramp-over angle | 25° |
| Climb angle | 32° |
| Wading depth | 800 mm (31.5 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16; 255/70 R16; 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2.2 TDCi engine, introduced as part of the Ranger III’s lifecycle, was a key component in Ford’s strategy to offer a versatile and efficient pickup truck. The facelifted model, launched in 2015, brought updated styling and improved interior features. This particular variant, combining the 2.2-liter diesel with a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, was positioned as a practical choice for buyers who didn’t require the outright power of the 3.2-liter five-cylinder diesel, but still desired the convenience of an automatic gearbox and the added traction of 4×4. It was a popular configuration in markets where manual transmissions were less common and where all-wheel drive was valued for its all-weather capability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 2.2 TDCi engine, belonging to Ford’s Duratorq family, is a four-cylinder diesel engine utilizing common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. The engine code for this version is typically Puma. The common-rail system, supplied by Bosch, allowed for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion, contributing to both power and efficiency. The engine featured a 15.7:1 compression ratio, a relatively high figure for a diesel, which further enhanced thermal efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. It featured a torque converter and electronic control, offering selectable drive modes and a manual shift function. The transmission was specifically calibrated to work with the characteristics of the 2.2 TDCi engine, providing smooth gear changes and optimal power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 horsepower and 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 2.2 TDCi engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in a capable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.2 seconds, and top speed was limited to 175 km/h (109 mph). The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or when navigating hilly terrain. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in urban driving. However, it did result in a slight decrease in fuel economy and a marginally slower acceleration time. Compared to the more powerful 3.2-liter engine, the 2.2 TDCi offered a more refined and economical driving experience, but lacked the same level of towing and hauling capacity.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 TDCi 4×4 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and steel wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Limited or Wildtrack, added features like alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a tow bar, bed liner, and various styling accessories. The interior design was functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Ranger III Double Cab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for both on-road and off-road driving. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The 2.2 TDCi variant, being a mid-range option, typically featured a slightly smaller brake rotor size compared to the higher-powered models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Ranger III 2.2 TDCi 4×4 Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and versatile capabilities. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times, and that the engine lacked the outright power of its larger counterparts. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara, the Ranger offered a more modern interior and a more refined driving experience. In terms of fuel economy, the 2.2 TDCi performed competitively, achieving around 29.4 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system.
Legacy
The 2.2 TDCi engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and many examples of the Ranger III with this engine are still on the road today. The combination of the 2.2-liter engine and the six-speed automatic transmission has proven to be relatively trouble-free, although regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF servicing, is essential. On the used car market, the 2.2 TDCi 4×4 Automatic Ranger III represents a good value proposition, offering a capable and practical pickup truck at an affordable price. Its blend of fuel efficiency, comfort, and all-wheel-drive capability continues to make it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for work and leisure.
