Skip advert
Advertisement

Ford Ranger Thunder review

The Ford Ranger has had a facelift. We try the Thunder-spec version to see what's new.

"Want a multi-purpose vehicle? Only a pick-up will do."

What is it?
The Ford Ranger Thunder is a proper multi-purpose vehicle. It can lug loads of up to a tonne in the back, tow three tonnes behind and still carry five people in its leather-lined cabin..

What’s it like on the outside?
A fresh look means the Ford appears sharp compared to its Mitsubishi L200 and Nissan Navara competitors. The Ranger is an imposing choice, thanks to its chrome-capped mirrors and front grille, privacy glass, 16-inch alloy wheels and front foglamps.

What’s it like on the inside?
My car was in popular Thunder trim, so it gets air-con, heated leather seats and illuminated scuff plates. The cabin is tough, with the Thunder additions lifting the low-rent plastics by introducing silver highlights and red-backed instrumentation.

What’s it like to drive?
On the road, the ride feels bouncy and the steering lifeless. Fill up its huge deck with some cement or building sand, though, and the pick-up delivers far greater composure. The 2.5-litre engine is at its best at low revs, so on the road the awkward five-speed manual gearbox will keep you busy. That makes the £1,200 automatic a desirable option. A rugged worker or able all-rounder, the Ranger is a tough machine for business, pleasure or both.

Verdict
When you want a true MPV, only a pick-up will do. And you could do a lot worse than the Ford Ranger Thunder. It might bring compromises for its breadth of ability, but decent spec, reasonable economy and good looks make it an appealing choice in 2.5-litre Thunder guise, although the auto is easier to drive.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Car Specs - Ford Ranger Thunder

Engine:2.5-litre diesel, 143hp
0-62mph:12.5 seconds
Top speed:TBA mph
Economy/emissions:30.4mpg/255g/km CO2
Price/On sale £19,600+VAT/Now

We rate:
It's a proper MPV
Well equipped

We slate:
Drives like a truck
Shiny dash plastics

Rating: Image removed.

By Bryce Richards

Skip advert
Advertisement

Richard is a former editor of Carbuyer, as well as sister site DrivingElectric.com, and he's now Deputy Editor at Auto Express. Having spent a decade working in the automotive industry, he understands exactly what makes new car buyers tick.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New BMW 3 Series ‘Neue Klasse’ takes to the ice in first official photos
BMW 3 Series Neue Klasse testing front quarter
News
12 Mar 2025

New BMW 3 Series ‘Neue Klasse’ takes to the ice in first official photos

New Peugeot 208 coming soon with hot GTi version under consideration
Peugeot 208 GTi render front quarter
News
10 Mar 2025

New Peugeot 208 coming soon with hot GTi version under consideration

Best electric cars under £40,000 to avoid the luxury car tax
Best electric cars under 40k
Best cars
14 Mar 2025

Best electric cars under £40,000 to avoid the luxury car tax

Tips & advice

View All
Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?
Car dashboard symbols and meanings
Tips and advice
21 Oct 2024

Car dashboard warning lights: what does each symbol mean?

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps
Charging station
Tips and advice
23 Jul 2024

Electric car charging stations: public networks, charger types, apps and maps

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?
PCP vs HP
Tips and advice
17 May 2022

PCP vs HP – which type of car finance is right for you?

Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Average speed cameras: how do they work?
Tips and advice
21 Mar 2024

Average speed cameras: how do they work?

Best cars

View All
Top 10 best car interiors
Peugeot 208 hatchback
Best cars
25 Jun 2021

Top 10 best car interiors

The 10 best electric cars in 2025
Bets electric cars 2025
Best cars
31 Jan 2025

The 10 best electric cars in 2025

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2025
Best cheap to run cars
Best cars
8 Jan 2025

Top 10 best cheap-to-run cars 2025

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2025
Fastest hot hatchbacks 2025
Best cars
22 Jan 2025

The UK's top 10 fastest hot hatchbacks 2025