FORD Australia has slipped a Special Edition model in to its Ranger ute line-up, with an XLS-grade Ranger coming loaded with extras.

It’s a timely addition to the hot-selling Ranger range, and it coincides with Holden’s revelation of its updated Colorado line-up.

Ford ranger xls front
1

The Ranger 4×4 XLS Special Edition gets extras that would normally add $4900 to the base price, but for the regular XLS it’s just a $2500 hike.

Available only in double-cab ute variants, the XLS Special Edition sells for $49,970 with the six-speed manual and $52,190 with six-speed automatic transmission.

Genuine accessories that come on the Special Edition Ranger XLS include a polished sports bar, genuine Ford 3500kg rated tow-bar, side steps, and a load bed and tailgate.

CEO and president of Ford of Australia, Graeme Whickman, said of the new Ranger: “Already considered one of the most capable and desirable pick-up trucks on the market, we expect the Ranger 4×4 XLS Special Edition will help us narrow the gap to Toyota even further, with Ranger 4×4 now only 172 units behind the Hilux 4×4 year-to-date (July 2016).”

In fact, in July this year, more Rangers found new homes than Hiluxes (2357 v 2311). It has been a tight battle between the two off-road warriors this year, and the nail-biting dual for best-selling ute of 2016 should go right down to the wire.

The Ranger XLS 4×4 is available now from Ford dealerships.