Ford’s collaboration with customisation company MS-RT is about to step up another notch with the launch of this new Ford Ranger MS-RT. Yep, it’s an officially endorsed ‘street focused’ upgrade to the Ranger pickup that you’ll be able to buy from any Ford dealer when it goes on sale in summer 2021.
The Ranger MS-RT is based on the Ford Ranger Wildtrak but comes with a load of visual modifications inspired by motorsport, creating a striking yet not overly aggressive new model that will sit at the top of the Ranger line-up alongside the off-road focused Ranger Raptor.
It clearly targets lifestyle buyers, but the MS-RT Ranger can still tow and carry like a proper pickup.
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What’s included with the Ranger MS-RT?
This is purely a cosmetic exercise, but that’s no bad thing – as the Ranger MS-RT not only looks good but is based on one of the best versions of the Parkers Award-winning Ford Ranger, and so can be expected to be as good to drive as it is to look at.
The ‘handcrafted’ changes MS-RT makes comprise a new-look front end with revised bumper and honeycomb carbonfibre-effect grille, a set of bold wheelarch extensions unlike anything you’d usually see on a pickup, and side skirts.
Those wheels are 20-inch OZ Racing alloys, the mirror caps are also finished in carbonfibre effect, and there’s an ‘aerodynamic’ load bar as well. MS-RT badges finish things up – though we’re surprised to report that paint choices are limited to Frozen White, Sea Grey or Agate Black.
If you feel the need to make a bigger impact, a Maxhaust soundbox is available a dealer fit optional extra – an app controlled external speaker that produces surprisingly convincing sporty exhaust noises.
What about the inside?
On the inside you get black leather with orange contrast stitching – similar to regular Wildtraks. As a Double Cab model only (in the UK – some European markets also get a Super Cab), it has four proper doors and five proper seats.
MS-RT floor mats and scuff plates add a little more detail, while standard kit includes an 8.0-inch Ford Sync 3 infotainment system, rear view camera, heated seats and ambient lighting.
And under the bonnet?
The Ranger MS-RT uses the same 213hp 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel engine as other top-end Rangers – complete with 10-speed automatic transmission, which Ford likes to note is the same as that used by the Mustang performance car.
With 500Nm of torque, the engine will make light work of towing (up to 3,500kg) and the Ranger MS-RT is quoted as still having a 1,098kg payload – substantially better than the Ranger Raptor’s limited 620kg rating.
Unlike some other MS-RT models, there is no reference to any changes to the Ranger’s suspension or chassis.
Is the Ranger MS-RT Ford approved?
It is indeed – MS-RT is a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM), and the Ranger will be available to order from any Ford dealer.
MS-RT is based in Wales, and combines low volume manufacturing and design skills with a company background that includes close association with M-Sport, the British firm that builds and develops Ford’s rally cars.
How much does the Ranger MS-RT cost and when does it go on sale?
The Ranger MS-RT is due to be available from Ford dealers in summer 2021, so it’s perhaps no surprise that at this stage there’s no information on pricing.
As an upgrade over the Ranger Wildtrak with a bunch of hand-fitted bespoke components, we would estimate buyers will be looking at around £37,000 (plus VAT) to say the least. A lot of money for a pickup, but few make quite the visual statement that the Ranger MS-RT does.
We look forward to driving it later in 2021.
