The Ford Ranger III, specifically the Single Cab facelift model produced from 2015 to 2018, represented a significant update to Ford’s globally popular mid-size pickup truck. This iteration of the Ranger, while not sold in the North American market during this period, was a mainstay in Europe, Australia, South Africa, and parts of Asia. The 2.2 TDCi 130 horsepower four-wheel-drive variant occupied a crucial position in the lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and capability for both work and recreational use. It served as a more economical and accessible entry point into the Ranger range, appealing to buyers who didn’t require the higher performance of the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Generation | Ranger III Single Cab (facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TDCi (130 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3700 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (243.4 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 | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2014 kg (4440.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3200 kg (7054.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1186 kg (2614.68 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 | 1800-1806 mm (70.87 – 71.1 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 mm (45.24 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 | 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 2.2-liter Puma TDCi diesel engine. This engine, part of Ford’s durable Puma family, utilizes a common-rail direct injection system and a variable geometry turbocharger with intercooling. The engine code for this specific output was often associated with variations like 320, depending on the specific market and calibration. The 15.7:1 compression ratio is typical for a modern diesel, contributing to efficiency. The engine’s inline-four configuration and longitudinal mounting within the chassis were standard for four-wheel-drive applications, optimizing driveline layout. The six-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option for this trim level in most markets. The gearbox was chosen for its robustness and suitability for both on- and off-road driving, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 horsepower output, coupled with 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, provided adequate performance for everyday use and light-duty work tasks. Acceleration was not its strong suit, with a 0-60 mph time around 14.2 seconds, but the engine’s torque curve delivered usable power from low RPMs, making it suitable for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The manual transmission allowed for precise control, but the gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright speed. Compared to the higher-output 2.5-liter or 3.2-liter engine options available in the Ranger lineup, this 2.2 TDCi offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing economy over performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 TDCi 130 hp 4×4 typically represented a mid-range trim level. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, a basic audio system, and steel wheels. Safety features like ABS were standard. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, power windows, and more sophisticated interior trim. Optional extras often included a limited-slip differential, a tow bar, and various styling enhancements. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of work and outdoor use. Upholstery was typically vinyl or a hard-wearing cloth.
Chassis & Braking
The Ranger III utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration offered a good compromise between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for most applications, the drum brakes at the rear were a cost-saving measure compared to the all-disc setups found on higher-spec models. The four-wheel-drive system typically featured a selectable transfer case, allowing drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 TDCi 130 hp 4×4 Ranger was generally well-received as a practical and affordable workhorse. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and durability, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the more powerful Ranger variants, it offered a lower purchase price and reduced running costs. Against competitors like the Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara, the Ranger offered a competitive package, particularly in terms of value for money. The fuel economy figures of around 33.6 US mpg combined were competitive for a pickup truck of its size and capability.
Legacy
The 2.2 TDCi engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and many examples are still in service today. While not known for blistering performance, its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs have made it a popular choice in the used car market. Common issues are typically related to wear and tear on components like the turbocharger and fuel injectors, but these are generally straightforward to address. The Ranger III, in general, established Ford as a major player in the global mid-size pickup truck segment, paving the way for the more modern Ranger models that followed. The 2.2 TDCi variant remains a viable option for buyers seeking a dependable and economical pickup truck.
