2010 Ford Ranger Comes to Life in Geneva

Ford announced today that its new Ranger pickup will be displayed at the Geneva Motor Show in March which coincides with the first public appearance of the new model in Europe. The 2010 Ranger is designed in Australia but built in Thailand and is said to include exactly the main features demanded by the current economic-hit auto market: advanced fuel economy, low CO2 emissions and car-like comfort.

The pickup comes in two versions, four- or two-wheel drive, and is expected to go on sale in the United Kingdom in late 2009. The new range will include 10 colors, with five of them totally new: Highland Green, Winning Blue, Lagoon Blue, Copper Red and Desert Bronze.

In terms of exterior styling, the Ranger boasts a large horizontal three-bar grille plus large headlights and big mirrors. "At the rear the Ranger debuts a new clear tail-lamp design," Ford said in a statement for the press, announcing the debut of the model at the Geneva Auto Show.

Ergonomically crafter seats and climate control greets the driver inside the car, while an advanced bodyshell has been especially implement to reduce noise from the cabin.

Speaking of engines, the new Ranger lineup is available in either 2.5 and 3.0-litre TDCi turbo diesel engines with five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions. Loads of up to 3,000 kg can be towed, Ford added praising the features of the new model.

"The Ford Ranger nameplate is already established in more than 100 markets around the world," said Henrik Nenzen, Ford of Europe's Director of Commercial Vehicle Marketing and Sales. "The new model delivers even more style, comfort and features, making it an ideal choice."