Ford Ranger Sport V6

As the only V6-powered ute in this year's test, the Ranger had a clear head start on the competition from the outset. The only other V6 diesel in this segment is the closely related Volkswagen Amarok - but VW didn't respond to our request to supply a vehicle for testing.

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Yes, you'll pay more at the dealer when you choose the V6 engine over the equivalent four-cylinder, and you'll pay again at the pump with higher fuel use. But the benefits of the Ranger's V6 powertrain over the four-pot far outweigh the cost difference.

The Ranger V6 is smoother than any other ute in this group. The engine is torquey and composed, with a relaxed gait whether you're cruising along the highway, tackling a mountain road or hauling a heavy load. Paired with its superb 10-speed automatic transmission, the V6 Ranger remains unsurpassed in this class.

With full-time 4x4 via its dual-range transfer case and a swag of clever towing technologies, the Ranger V6 makes every task feel effortless.