The Ford Ranger III Single Cab (facelift 2015) 2.2 TDCi, producing 130 horsepower, represents a work-focused iteration of the globally successful Ranger pickup truck. Introduced as part of the facelift for the T6 platform Ranger in 2015 and continuing through 2018, this variant was primarily aimed at commercial and fleet buyers in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. It offered a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and capability for demanding tasks. This specific configuration, with the 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine and a six-speed manual transmission, occupied the lower-mid range of the Ranger lineup, positioned above the base models and below the more powerful 3.2-liter five-cylinder options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Generation | Ranger III Single Cab (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TDCi (130 Hp) |
| 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 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.5 kg/Hp, 69 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (243.4 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 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 | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1883 kg (4151.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1317 kg (2903.49 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 | Manual 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 Ford Duratorq 2.2-liter TDCi inline-four diesel engine. This engine, part of the Puma family, utilizes a common-rail direct injection system and a variable geometry turbocharger with intercooling. The engine code is typically associated with the Puma 224 engine family. The 130 horsepower output is achieved at 3700 rpm, while peak torque of 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) is available between 1500 and 2500 rpm, providing a broad and usable powerband. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its durability and cost-effectiveness. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling, providing a balance between fuel efficiency and low-speed control.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 TDCi 130 hp Ranger Single Cab delivers a practical and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides sufficient power for everyday tasks and moderate towing duties. Acceleration is adequate, but not brisk, and the manual transmission requires deliberate shifting to maintain momentum, especially when loaded. The gear ratios are spaced to maximize fuel economy, but this can sometimes result in the engine feeling strained when climbing hills or overtaking. Compared to the 3.2-liter Ranger, this variant offers significantly less power and torque, resulting in slower acceleration and reduced towing capacity. However, the 2.2 TDCi is noticeably more fuel-efficient and generally less expensive to maintain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Ranger Single Cab 2.2 TDCi typically came with a relatively basic level of equipment, reflecting its work-oriented focus. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a basic audio system (often with AM/FM radio and USB connectivity), power windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS and driver/passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Limited, offered additional features like alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a tow bar, bed liner, and various accessories for enhancing the vehicle’s practicality.
Chassis & Braking
The Ranger III chassis features a robust ladder-frame construction, providing a solid foundation for both on-road and off-road driving. The front suspension utilizes independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration prioritizes load-carrying capacity and durability over outright ride comfort. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The ABS system provides enhanced braking control, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assistance, offering a reasonable level of precision and ease of use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCi Single Cab was well-received in its target markets as a practical and affordable workhorse. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, durability, and load-carrying capacity. However, some reviewers noted its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to more modern pickup trucks. Compared to the 3.2-liter Ranger, the 2.2 TDCi offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Against competitors like the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara, the Ranger offered a competitive combination of features, performance, and value.
Legacy
The Ford Ranger III 2.2 TDCi has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. The Duratorq engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered to be robust and capable of handling high mileage with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the fuel injection system, but these are typically addressed with regular servicing. On the used car market, these Rangers represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and affordable pickup truck. Their simplicity and relatively low running costs make them a popular choice for tradespeople, farmers, and anyone needing a dependable work vehicle.
