Ford Ranger PHEV

FIRST DRIVE Taxation changes for double cabs mean a plug-in hybrid joins the Ranger line-up - and it's a convincing package

- Dean Gibson [e-mail]

AS it stands, there’s not much wrong with the Ford Ranger, but changes in legislation mean that this big-selling pick-up is in need of a revamp to keep pace with buyers’ needs. Emissions are now an important factor when it comes to business taxation, and the arrival of the new Ranger PHEV will be the perfect option for those keen to keep their contributions to the taxman as low as possible.

From the outside, not a lot looks different, although the new Stormtrak specification is exclusive to the PHEV model (which also comes in XLT and Wildtrak trims). Chill Grey is a cool blue hue that’s unique to the Stormtrak (black is also offered), and there are standalone wheel designs to mark out the petrol-electric model. It also has the option of a sliding sports bar that allows racks to be attached above the cargo bed, while Ford’s PRO Power system means users can connect any device with a three-pin plug to the truck's drive battery - which could come in handy for anybody wanting to take the Ranger off grid.

The other visual clue to the alternative powertrain is the fact there are two filler flaps on the nearside rear wing. One (the one with a lightning bolt set into it) pops open to reveal the charging port for the battery, while the one ahead of it is the traditional fuel filler, which is released with the push of a button on the dashboard.