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Ford Raptor Rev event drew 80 participants, hundreds of off-road enthusiasts

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (Auto ConneXion) recently held an off-road event called Ford Raptor Rev at Bay 13, Sepang Circuit.

This action-packed event, which took place on February 22 and 23, was designed to give Ford Ranger Raptor owners and off-road enthusiasts an unforgettable experience.

According to Auto ConneXion, the event saw strong participation with 80 Ranger Raptor owners attending. Members of the public also came in droves to witness the capabilities of the Raptor firsthand.

Among the activities specifically organised for the Ranger Raptor owners who registered to take part in this exclusive event were workshop and training sessions covering off-roading jumping and drifting, 4×4 obstacle trails and Baja lap training.

A Ford expert, Chris Dean, was flown in from Australia for the event and conducted in-depth training on decoding the Ranger Raptor’s FOX suspension system.

Meanwhile, the members of the public, who enjoyed complimentary access to the event, also had the opportunity to take part in various activities, such as hot laps with professional drivers, Ranger Raptor test drives, and much more.

Additionally, attendees were also able to catch four popular personalities—actor and motor enthusiast Ezzrin Loy, footballer and 4×4 enthusiast Intan Serah, ex-national bowler Syaidatul Afifah and professional drifter Hee Wei Seng—participating in a hot lap with their lucky fans in a Ranger Raptor

Also present was renowned tyre brand BFGoodrich, the main partner of the Raptor Rev event. In addition to providing technical support and hosting informative workshops, the brand also showcased its newly launched KO3 off-road tyres.

“We are proud to have brought together the Ranger Raptor community for this unique off-road experience. The Raptor Rev is a celebration of what makes the Ranger Raptor extraordinary.

“It is a great platform for owners and enthusiasts alike to witness the Raptor’s extraordinary capabilities in a thrilling, hands-on environment while fostering a strong sense of community amongst off-road enthusiasts,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion.

NEWS

Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford expands dealership network in East Malaysia

Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (Auto ConneXion), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, has expanded its dealership network in East Malaysia through the opening of two new service-only facilities in Kapit and Mukah.

According to the company, the network expansion is in tandem with creating accessible quality service and products for the growing customer base in East Malaysia.

With the opening of these two new service centres, there are currently 11 dealers ready to serve the rising demand in Sabah and Sarawak.

The current dealerships in Sarawak include Kuching (SDAC), Sibu (Ngu Brothers), Miri (ALV Brothers), Bintulu (Ngu Brothers), Kota Samarahan (Jimisar Motors) and two service only centres in Kapit and Mukah.

While in Sabah, there are two dealerships in Kota Kinabalu (Boston Auto and Rightpower Corporation), Sandakan (Boston Auto) and Tawau (TB Automotive).

With the comprehensive network of dealers and dedicated service-only centres across East Malaysia, Ford customers both in and out of town areas are now closer to convenient and reliable services.

Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, SDAC said, “East Malaysia continues to be a major growing market for Auto ConneXion, as evidenced by the strong and consistent demand in 2024. Driven by this, we continuously improve our services and accessibility touch points to effectively meet the needs of our increasing customer base.”

Customers are welcome to visit these new dealerships to explore Ford’s latest offerings, which include savings of up to RM8,000 or 5 Years Ford Blue Oval Service Plan, plus savings up to RM2,000.

To elevate the ownership experience, Ford Motorcraft Genuine Parts are available across all authorised Ford dealers in East Malaysia at a competitive price.

NEWS

Ford Raptor Rev event postponed to 22 and 23 February 2025

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (Auto ConneXion) has announced the postponement of the highly anticipated Ford Raptor Rev event, originally scheduled for 11 and 12 January 2025 at Bay 13, Sepang Circuit, Selangor. The new date for the event will be on 22 and 23 February 2025.

To deliver the highest standards of organisation and participant experience, Ford has rescheduled the event to better accommodate an overwhelming response from participants. This will ensure a more inclusive, enhanced as well as seamless experience for all participants and attendees.

In response to the high demand, Ford is opening an additional 40 spots for Raptor owners, bringing the total to 90 spots. The registration deadline for these additional spots is on 22 January 2025 or while spots are available.

“We sincerely regret for any inconvenience caused by the rescheduling of our event and greatly appreciate the patience and understanding of our loyal Ranger Raptor community and fans.

“The overwhelming response underscores our customers’ enthusiasm and we are fully committed to delivering a memorable experience for all our attendees. To accommodate the enthusiasm, the event will stretch to two days instead of one,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion-Ford.

All early bird registrations will be honoured for the rescheduled event and participants will be notified directly with further updates.

NEWS

Ford Escort Mk1 RS has been reborn with 296 hp, limited to only 150 units

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Ford has finally given the green light to Boreham Motorworks to reproduce the iconic classic Ford Escort Mk1 RS model.

Although it is built using the original 1970s blueprints, Boreham has injected several modern elements into this model.

Only 150 units of the Escort RS will be produced, and buyers will be given two engine options.

The most powerful version features a naturally aspirated 2.1-liter inline-four engine paired with a five-speed dogleg gearbox, producing an impressive 296 hp and capable of reaching engine speeds of 10,000 rpm.

This new engine showcases components such as steel connecting rods, a billet crankshaft, a fuel injection system, and a custom titanium exhaust.

Those seeking a more ‘authentic’ package can opt for the base version, which comes with an upgraded Twin-Cam 1,845 cc engine featuring a new fuel injection system.

With power reaching 182 hp, this is transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed straight-cut manual transmission.

In terms of exterior design, the Escort RS retains the spirit of the original model, but is enhanced with modern elements such as LED headlights, wider wheel arches, and custom 15-inch four-spoke rims.

According to Boreham, the car has a weight distribution ratio of 55:45, a coil spring suspension system, a limited-slip differential at the rear, and a floating-style aluminum and titanium rear axle.

The braking system consists of four-piston calipers and 260 mm rotors at the front, followed by two-piston calipers and 264 mm rotors at the rear.

The cabin space is quite basic, as it is free from the presence of a large screen.

Instead, it features a carbon fiber dashboard complete with analog gauges, air conditioning, and a very simple audio system.

Additionally, there is a three-spoke Alcantara steering wheel, bucket seats, as well as options for installing a roll cage and a four-point harness system, plus storage space for racing helmets.

As mentioned earlier, only 150 units of the Escort MK1 RS will be produced, each carrying a price tag starting from £295,000 (approximately RM1.66 million) with a two-year warranty or a limit of 20,000 miles.

NEWS

Raptor Rev now open for registration, only 50 spots available

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Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (Auto Connexion), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, has announced 11 and 12 January 2025 as the dates for the Raptor Rev off-road event.

The company has launched an exclusive microsite (www.raptorrev.com.my) and invites Ford Ranger Raptor owners to register, with only 50 spots available.

Scheduled to take place at Bay 13, Sepang Circuit from 7 am to 7 pm, Raptor Rev offers immersive training sessions covering off-road theories, suspension, tyres, jumping, drifting, Baja lap training, and practical 4×4 obstacle trails.

Patrick McConchie, a Ford expert will be flying in from Australia to conduct a workshop highlighting about Ranger Raptor’s FOX suspension.

Upon completion, participants will compete in an Autocross Challenge, testing their skills against the clock. The winner will take home a RM3,000 fuel voucher.

Ranger Raptor owners can secure their place in the Raptor Rev event for a fee of RM275 (regular fee RM350), starting now until 13 December.

This exclusive offer includes a limited-edition Raptor T-shirt and cap, meals and beverages, access to specialised workshops covering theoretical and practical sessions, as well as participation in the Autocross Challenge.

The event is open to non-Raptor owners, who are welcome to attend as visitors free of charge. The first 100 who register online will receive complimentary F&B vouchers redeemable at on-site food trucks.

Participants can take part in hot laps on the Baja track with experienced drivers, test drive the Ranger Raptor, and enjoy various performances and exciting activities.

Additionally, the first 100 Ranger Raptor owners who show their truck keys on the day will also receive a limited edition Raptor Rev T-shirt.

NEWS

Ford Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition unveiled in Malaysia from RM144k

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Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, has launched the new Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition, featuring a variety of new upgrades.

Compared to the standard version, the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition boasts a bolder appearance thanks to a matte black fender flares and sports bar. Eye-catching side and bonnet decals further enhance its standout look.

SDAC says the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition is available in two colours, namely Absolute Black and Meteor Grey.

Inside, the variant gains LED Ranger scuff plates on the door sills and pull-out cup holders located near the air conditioning vents.

Apart from these enhancements, the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition retains existing features such as a chrome grille, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and dual-zone climate control.

Powering the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition a 2.0-litre four-cylinder bi-turbo diesel engine making 210 PS and 500 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel drive system.

Safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Roll Stability Control, Active Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Traction Control System (TCS).

Only 300 units of the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition will be offered, each priced at RM143,888 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia and RM149,388 in Sabah and Sarawak.

Interested customers can view the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition up close at the Ford Experience Hub in Setia City Mall from September 25 to 29, 2024.

To sweeten the deal, SDAC is offering an RM3,000 fuel voucher to the first 20 customers who successfully purchase the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition via the company’s online booking system.

NEWS

Ford registers patent for driver protection system from accidentally becoming drug mules

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One of the major concerns while using rental cars or renting out cars to third parties is the risk of them being used for drug trafficking by irresponsible individuals.

With current advancements, Ford aims to leverage advanced technology loaded in modern vehicles to ensure that you are not the next unwitting participant.

The patent for this system of detecting unknown items has been filed by Ford in March 2023, and was publicly released on September 19th.

According to Ford, this system will utilize various sensor units and cameras to detect suspicious activities, check the vehicle’s weight, and scan for any unrecognized GPS radio frequencies.

The system will then activate the camera to record any suspicious movements and store it as evidence.

Additionally, the system will also track any changes in driving patterns and behaviors resulting from the addition of unknown weight loads.

It is just a patent for now, but it is not implausible that one day this system will be realized to combat the issue of drug trafficking.

NEWS

Ford brings Stingray karaoke app to F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E

Ford owners can now kill boredom while stuck in traffic or waiting for their vehicles to charge with a new karaoke app developed in collaboration with Canadian music and media company Stingray.

Ford says the app will initially be available through a software update on the F-150 Lightning, followed by the Mustang Mach-E.

What’s particularly exciting is that the Stingray karaoke app offers a wide selection of songs from rock, country, pop, R&B, Latin, K&J Pop and family-friendly tunes. The songs are available with 38 language options, including 10 languages in local characters such as Thai, Hebrew, Russian and Greek.

Additionally, the app features a multilingual interface with 36 languages available.

This feature can be used when parked and while driving. Lyrics for the currently playing song will be displayed on the infotainment system touchscreen when the vehicle is stopped and will disappear as soon as the vehicle is moving, ensuring that the driver’s attention remains undistracted.

While the vehicle is in motion, the app will display a QR code on the screen if the vehicle detects a passenger in the front passenger seat with their seatbelt fastened.

Passengers can scan this QR code using their smartphones to access a webpage that allows them to control the karaoke app from their devices.

Through this method, passengers can add songs to their playlist, change songs, view scrolling lyrics and utilise the vehicle’s audio system.

The Stingray karaoke app will first be available for the F-150 Lightning equipped with the SYNC 4A infotainment system, followed by the Mustang Mach-E available in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe.

Furthermore, it can also be downloaded for the Explorer and several 2025 Lincoln models, including the Navigator, Aviator, and Nautilus.

NEWS

2025 Ford Ranger PHEV debuts, with 275 hp and 690 Nm, 45 km EV range

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Approximately a year after the announcement was made, Ford has officially launched the mid-size pickup truck Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) at the IAA Transportation 2024, Hannover.

The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV is powered by the EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbo engine paired with a single 101 hp electric motor placed within the transmission bellhousing.

Overall, this PHEV can generate up to 275 hp and 690 Nm, much more powerful than the existing petrol and diesel engines for the Ranger (except for the Raptor).

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and the e-4WD system, featuring a rear differential lock and a two-range transfer case.

The 11.8 kWh battery pack allows this pickup truck to travel emission-free for up to 45 km, with a full charge possible in less than four hours.

In addition to the regenerative braking function, the Ford Ranger PHEV is also equipped with the Pro Power Onboard system, enabling owners to use power tools, charge electronic devices, or use it as a generator for off-grid activities.

As standard, the Pro Power Onboard system provides 2.3 kW of power, with an option for 6.9 kW.

Due to the addition of the PHEV system, Ford engineers have tweaked the pickup truck’s suspension system, yet it is still capable of carrying a payload of up to 1 ton and towing loads of up to 3,500 kg.

Externally, the appearance of the Ford Ranger PHEV 2025 is identical to the standard Ford Ranger, except for the presence of a charging port located near the fuel tank cap on the rear fender.

At the same time, Ford has also launched the special edition Ranger Stormtrak exclusively for the Ranger PHEV.

Unique features include 18-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb patterns on the grille, special decals, PHEV badging, and the exclusive Chill Grey color.

Additionally, the Ranger Stormtrak is equipped with Matrix LED headlights, a Flexible Rack System in the rear bed, a B&O sound system with 10 speakers, a 12-inch infotainment screen, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

The Ford Ranger PHEV will be produced at the Silverton plant in South Africa and will be exported to the markets in Australia, Europe, and New Zealand in time for the spring of 2025.

NEWS

Ford Everest Tremor gains off-road upgrades to take on Australian outback

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In July, Ford Australia added a new variant to the Ranger lineup known as the Tremor. Now, it’s the Everest’s turn to receive the same off-road-focused treatment.

At first glance, you will immediately know that the Everest Tremor is not your average Everest. It boasts a more rugged appearance courtesy of a new, more aggressive bumper fitted with auxiliary LED lights, front tow hooks, and a steel bash plate.

Not only that, the combination of Bilstein position-sensitive dampers and 17-inch wheels wrapped in General Grabber AT3 tyres provide the SUV with an additional ground clearance of one inch, giving it an even more menacing stance.

The interior is adorned with ebony leather-accented seats embossed with Tremor logo, as well as all-weather floor mats. Perhaps what’s more important is the addition of a Rock Crawl drive mode carried over from the Ranger Raptor.

Meanwhile, the Everest’s advanced driver assistance system consisting of features like Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Intelligent Speed Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Centering, Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, is retained.

Customers planning to go further than the beaten path can opt for the Rough Terrain Pack offered at no additional cost. It includes a stealth bar and underbody protection from ARB, as well as an auxiliary switch bank.

The Ranger Tremor is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine producing 250 PS at 3,250 rpm and 600 Nm from 1,750 to 2,250 rpm. Power is sent to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system.

In Australia, the Ranger Tremor is available in four colours: Command Grey, Meteor Grey, Shadow Black, and Arctic White, with prices starting from AUD 76,590 (RM 225,000).

NEWS

Carbon Piranha, a restomod project using the Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 chassis #148

A group of British OEM companies will join forces under the name Vision 148 to carry out a restomod project on a super saloon from the 80s, named the Carbon Piranha.

Using the chassis of the Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 numbered #148, Carbon Piranha will showcase showcase bleeding-edge manufacturing and materials technology.

 

The original condition of the car has not been disclosed, but based on the images, it appears that the classic vehicle may have long been neglected and unused for quite some time.

The car will be sent to ASM Auto Recycling for a dismantling process where each panel will be scanned using 3D technology.

The results of this scanning process will be used by Yasid Design to create a brand-new carbon fiber body framework template.

The iconic vehicle will then be constructed by the Digital Manufacturing Centre (DMC), a component supplier for the motorsport and aerospace industries, with a target weight of around 1,000 kg, which is 210 kg lighter than the original model.

Finally, the inline-four 2.0-liter turbo engine will be rebuilt by the original supplier, Cosworth.

The exterior design of the Carbon Piranha displays mastery in carbon fiber construction, followed by more modern light units and larger wheel arches.

It also retains the whaletail spoiler structure, along with a redesigned boot lid spoiler for a more aggressive appearance.

NEWS

Ford Ranger Tremor borrows bits from Wildtrak X and Raptor

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Ford Australia is expanding its pickup truck offering with the new 2025 Ranger Tremor, which is expected to hit the market around the late third quarter of this year.

What’s interesting about this model is that it is based on the Ranger Sport, but the Bilstein dampers, heavy-duty power steering, and full-time 4WD system are borrowed from the Wildtrak X.

This gives the Ranger Tremor a taller ride height by 26 mm. Its track width also increases by 30 mm, giving the pickup truck a rather menacing stance.

In addition to the suspension bits from the Wildtrak X, the Tremor also gains several features from the Raptor, such as the Rock Crawl drive mode, Trail Control system, and Trail Turn Assist.

Setting the Tremor further apart from the variant it’s based on are Tremor logos, a steel skid plate, forged aluminum side steps, a black sports bar, and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres.

There are six colour options available, namely, Aluminium, Blue Lightning, Conquer Grey, Meteor Grey, Shadow Black, and Arctic White.

Inside, you’ll find Tremor logos on the seats and rubber floor mats, as well as six auxiliary overhead switches that can be to support accessories like spotlights.

Like the Wildtrak X, the Tremor is powered by a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine producing 201 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The engine, which requires AdBlue additive, is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system.

According to Ford Australia, only 1,150 units of the Ranger Tremor will be offered in the country. The starting price is AUD69,690 (RM212,689).

NEWS

Ford Super Duty will receive some sort of electrification

Ford will begin to introduce some electrification for their Super Duty truck lineup. This news may not be very significant for the Malaysian market as the model is not sold here, but for those of you following the developments in the automotive world, this is a sign of the direction of a major global manufacturer.

Ford announced that they will build a third Super Duty assembly plant at the Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, which will start producing vehicles in 2026. This move will increase the production figure for the trucks to 100,000 units per year.

There are not many details available at the moment, but Ford stated that the Oakville plant will “pave the way to bring multi-powertrain technologies to the new generation of Super Duty trucks, giving customers more freedom to choose and support Ford’s electrification plan”.

We can infer that “multi-powertrain” refers to hybrid technology. However, whether it’s a plug-in hybrid, mild hybrid, or hydrogen fuel cell, we do not yet know.

This announcement comes as Ford, like other vehicle manufacturers, is reconsidering its future plans for fully electric vehicles (EVs). The Oakville plant was originally established to produce a three-row EV SUV.

Ford still has plans to produce this EV SUV, but has not decided when and where it will begin production. It was initially planned for 2025, then delayed until 2027. It could be delayed further.

Currently, the Ford Super Duty in North America is offered with the option of a 6.7-liter V8 diesel engine with 500hp and 1,626Nm of torque, as well as a 7.3-liter V8 petrol engine with an output of 430hp and 657Nm of torque.

“Super Duty is a vital tool for businesses and people around the world and, even with our Kentucky Truck Plant and Ohio Assembly Plant running flat out, we can’t meet the demand,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.

“This move benefits our customers and supercharges our Ford Pro commercial business. At the same time, we look forward to introducing three-row electric utility vehicles, leveraging our experience in three-row utility vehicles and our learnings as America’s number two electric vehicle brand to deliver fantastic, profitable vehicles.”

NEWS

2024 Ford Mustang recalled over potential brake hose failure

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Ford is carrying out a recall for the 2024 Mustang due to potential fluid leaks in the clutch assembly, which may hinder the manual model from shifting gears.

Yes, this means only the manual version of the Ford Mustang is affected by this recall. A total of 1,861 units are potentially lacking a specific seal or have been improperly installed. This seal connects the clutch hose to the firewall.

If the hose comes into contact with exhaust components, it could leak clutch fluid. If this occurs under the hood near a heat source, the fluid could also vaporize and lead to a fire, according to the recall report.

Drivers may experience difficulty shifting gears, and the engine may stutter, potentially leading to accidents.

Ford first identified this issue on April 30, 2024, when investigating two reports of engine compartment fires in manual models. Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group examined both vehicles and identified the root cause.

Ford stated that they were aware of the potential fire or smoke reports, but no injuries or accidents related to this issue have been reported.

Ford will begin contacting owners on June 17. They will ask owners to bring their Mustangs to a nearby dealer, where technicians will inspect and repair the relevant components if necessary.

NEWS

Ford Ranger StormTrak now in Malaysia – 200 units, from RM182k

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MORE than a year after it was launched in Thailand, the Ford Ranger StormTrak has now arrived in Malaysia with a starting price of RM181,888.

For comparison’s sake, the price of the Ranger StormTrak in Thailand starts at 1,264,000 baht or RM161,195 based on the current exchange rate.

Exterior-wise, the Ranger StormTrak sets itself apart from the Ranger WildTrak by a pair of three-point auxiliary LED lights at the front, Race Red details on the front bumper, StormTrak logo, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

There are three colours to choose from, namely Arctic White, Meteor Grey, and Absolute Black.

Inside, contrasting Race Red stitching and StormTrak emblems can be found on the seats and dashboard, along with Miko Suede inserts and an e-shifter gear button.

Additional features include an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and Park Assist 2.0., to name a few

The upgrades brought by this variant are not limited to cosmetics, as several handy features are also added on for enhanced functionality.

These include a flexible rack system (similar to that found in the Ranger Platinum) and swing-in-place roof rails that can support loads of up to 80 kg (dynamic) and 250 kg (static).

Additionally, the Ranger StormTrak also comes with a zone lighting system to brighten the vehicle’s surroundings and cargo lights for added convenience when loading and unloading.

Similar to the WildTrak, the StormTrak is powered by a 2.0-liter BiTurbo diesel engine with an output of 210 PS at 3,750 rpm and 500 Nm between 1,750 and 2,000 rpm. The power is transmitted to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system.

The Ranger StormTrak can be exclusively ordered online, with only 200 units offered for our market. Customers will receive an exclusive windbreaker jacket during the vehicle handover session.

NEWS

Limited-edition Ford Ranger to be launched in Malaysia on May 30

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SIME Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, recently announced that it will soon launch a limited-edition Ford Ranger.

According to SDAC, the booking for the limited-edition Ranger is solely available online starting May 30 2024 at https://shop.sdacford.com.my/vehicle/.

Members of the public who wish to get a closer look the exclusive pickup truck can do so at One Utama Luxe from May 30 to June 2, 2024.

Much about the forthcoming Ranger is unknown but in an official release, SDAC says the pickup truck will come with “high-end features” and is “designed to elevate the outdoor experience”.

The total number to be offered is also undisclosed, but according to SDAC, customers who secure their bookings online will receive a complimentary limited-edition Ford Ranger windbreaker upon vehicle delivery.

NEWS

Ford Ranger MS-RT is a Europe-exclusive, motorsport-inspired truck

THE Ford Ranger lineup for the European market has been further expanded with the introduction of a new sporty variant called the Ranger MS-RT.

The latest offering from Blue Oval is developed in collaboration with M-Sport (Ford’s partner in rally), but don’t expect it to come with any more power as upgrades are limited to aesthetics.

That being said, the Ranger MS-RT is guaranteed to turn heads with its motorsport-inspired styling. At the front, there’s a honeycomb grille and integrated splitter inspired by extreme Ranger racing trucks that compete in Asia.

The side profile appears lower thanks to sculpted side skirts, while the rear is adorned with an integrated diffuser. The rear tailgate comes with MS-RT graphics and a ducktail spoiler, which is complemented by a cab spoiler.

You may not realise, but the Ranger MS-RT is 82 mm wider than the standard version. The bulging fenders are matched with 21-inch diamond-cut rims wrapped in low-profile 275/45 tyres – the largest wheels ever to be offered on a Ranger.

The interior displays new seats that not only look sportier but also offer better support. They are upholstered in eco-leather and suede with distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching.

Other features include a sports steering wheel with heating and a blue 12 o’clock marker, a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4 infotainment system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, and Intelligent Speed Limiter.

Under the hood, there’s a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine making 240 PS and 600 Nm. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD all-wheel-drive system also found in other Ranger variants.

Despite not getting any additional power, the Ranger MS-RT promises better handling through new, firmer front dampers and retuned rear suspension. Its height has also been reduced by 40 mm, giving the truck a more aggressive stance and greater handling and stability through corners.

More importantly, its capability as a pickup truck remains intact. It can still carry loads of up to 1,000 kg and has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg.

NEWS

2024 Ford Mustang ‘lost’ 52hp for Europe

The increasingly stringent emission regulations have compelled vehicle manufacturers in Europe to take measures such as reducing the number of cylinders or adding turbochargers.

Remarkably, the Ford Mustang for the European market still retains its delicious 5.0-liter V8 naturally-aspirated engine, but there comes some bad news. The engine’s output has been reduced.

The standard version, which previously boasted 440hp, has now been reduced by 40hp to comply with the stringent regulations.

The torque has also been ‘only’ 540Nm, which is 28Nm less than the American version. Nevertheless, European consumers should be grateful that Ford can still offer a car with a V8 engine in today’s era.

The power is still quite impressive. For those who feel it’s not enough, there’s the Dark Horse version. This top-of-the-line Mustang produces 448hp and 540Nm of torque (a reduction of 52hp and 28Nm), and you can even pair it with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

It can accelerate to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 263km/h. Opting for the 10-speed automatic model can achieve 0-100 acceleration in 4.4 seconds, but the top speed is limited to 250km/h.

This new Ford Mustang was introduced in Europe since September 2022; however, it is only now being officially sold. In the UK, it is offered at a price of £55,585 (RM331,842) for the GT model, and £65,585 (RM391,542) for the Dark Horse variant.