The Ford Ranger III Single Cab (facelift 2015) 2.2 TDCi 160 horsepower Automatic represents a specific configuration within the globally successful Ford Ranger line, particularly tailored for markets outside of North America. Produced from 2015 to 2018, this variant occupied a middle ground in the Ranger lineup, offering a balance between work capability and relative comfort. It was positioned as a step up from the base model engines, appealing to buyers who needed more power and the convenience of an automatic transmission for both on and off-road duties. The facelift introduced in 2015 brought updated styling and improved interior features to the T6 platform Ranger.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Generation | Ranger III Single Cab (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TDCi (160 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 197 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 91.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 3200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 385 Nm @ 1600-2500 rpm (283.96 lb.-ft. @ 1600-2500 rpm) |
| 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 | 11.9 l (12.57 US qt | 10.47 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1749 kg (3855.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1451 kg (3198.91 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 | 1703 mm (67.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3220 mm (126.77 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 908 mm (35.75 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1149 mm (45.24 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 135 mm (5.31 in.) |
| Approach angle | 28° |
| Departure angle | 28° |
| Ramp-over angle | 25° |
| Climb angle | 32° |
| Wading depth | 600 mm (23.62 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 R16; 255/70 R16; 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Ranger variant is the 2.2-liter TDCi (Turbo Diesel Commonrail Injection) engine. This engine, part of Ford’s Duratorq family, is an inline-four cylinder diesel known for its robustness and relatively good fuel economy. The 2.2 TDCi utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine code for this generation is typically associated with Puma engines. A single turbocharger with an intercooler provides forced induction, boosting power output to 160 horsepower at 3200 rpm and 385 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque between 1600 and 2500 rpm. This torque band is particularly useful for hauling and towing. The engine features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head, contributing to its durability. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, designed to handle the engine’s torque output and provide smooth shifting. While not known for being the fastest-shifting automatic, it prioritizes reliability and durability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 TDCi Automatic Ranger offers a comfortable and capable driving experience, particularly suited for everyday use and moderate work tasks. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for constant gear changes, making it ideal for city driving and stop-and-go traffic. However, compared to the manual transmission versions or the higher-output 3.2-liter five-cylinder engine, the 2.2 TDCi Automatic feels less responsive. Acceleration is adequate but not brisk, and the transmission can sometimes hunt for the right gear, especially when climbing hills or under heavy load. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and towing capacity rather than outright speed. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a stable platform for hauling, but traction can be limited on slippery surfaces without engaging any available four-wheel-drive systems (if equipped).
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 TDCi Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically vinyl or cloth, depending on the trim level. Optional extras included a limited-slip differential, a tow bar, and various accessories for the cargo bed.
Chassis & Braking
The Ranger III utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable chassis. The front suspension consists of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration is designed to handle heavy loads and provide a comfortable ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering a reasonable level of precision and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 TDCi Automatic Ranger was generally well-received as a practical and versatile workhorse. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and durability, but some noted its lack of outright performance compared to other engines in the lineup. Compared to the 3.2-liter engine, the 2.2 TDCi offered significantly better fuel economy but less power and towing capacity. The manual transmission versions of the 2.2 TDCi provided slightly better performance and fuel economy than the automatic. The Ranger competed with other mid-size pickups such as the Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max, and Mitsubishi Triton.
Legacy
The 2.2 TDCi engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, and well-maintained examples continue to be a popular choice in the used car market. While not without its quirks, the engine is generally considered to be relatively trouble-free. The automatic transmission, while not the most refined, is also known for its durability. The Ranger III, in general, has established a reputation as a capable and dependable pickup truck, and the 2.2 TDCi Automatic variant remains a viable option for buyers seeking a practical and affordable work vehicle.
