HAPPY MEDIUM

FITTING ACCESSORIES CAN BE THIRSTY WORK.

- DEAN MELLOR

WE’RE about halfway through 4X4 Of The Year testing as I sit here in the camping area at Pooncarie (NSW) writing about my Ford Ranger … which is back at home. It’s been a fantastic trip so far and we have learnt a lot about the vehicles on test this year, having already completed a lot of testing.

One of the vehicles in this year’s line-up is a Ford Ranger with the 2.0-litre bi-turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, and it’s been interesting to be able to compare its performance with my 3.2-litre turbo-diesel five. Despite the bi-turbo’s higher power and torque, I’m pleased I opted for the 3.2 five pot, which I reckon has much more character and works better with its six speed auto than the 2.0L engine does with its 10-speed auto.