Ford Australia has announced a new Ranger FX4 Max variant will join the line-up in December priced from $65,940 plus on-road costs.
 
Designed to slot between the Ranger XLT and Raptor, the FX4 Max will feature specialised suspension, off-road tyres and unique styling.
 
New 2.0-inch monotube Fox shock absorbers at the front and rear, tuned coil-springs at the front and staggered tuning at the rear are used to manage heavy loads. New lock-stop profile steering knuckles, front jounce bumpers and a 29mm front stabiliser bar complete the setup.
 
The FX4 Max rides with a 256mm ground clearance and 31-, 25- and 23-degree approach, breakover and departure angles, respectively.
 
Along with the suspension changes, 265/70R17 BF Goodrich All-Terrain K02 tyres are wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels with a +42mm offset and 26mm wider track.
 
Differentiating the FX4 Max is a F.O.R.D lettered grille, a dark grey grille surround, skid plate, exterior mirror caps and door handles, unique wheel arch mouldings and rear tray surrounds, a full-length tubular matte black sports bar with in-tray lighting, and body-mounted metal ‘hoop’ side steps.
 
Internally, all-weather floor mats and FX4 Max-specific seating featuring carbon-accents with Miko suede inserts and FX4 Max embroidery can be found. There are also sport pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Black Alley inserts on the door trims and dash applique.
 
Infotainment is taken care of with an 8.0-inch touchscreen which includes built-in satellite-navigation as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
 
Other features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a FordPass Connect embedded modem, dual-zone climate control, lane keep assist and a rear-view camera.
 
A specific 250A alternator to support power supply to multiple accessories such as light-bars, winches and spotlights is also included which reduces reliance on the vehicle’s battery.
 
The powertrain is shared with the Raptor, meaning the 157kW/500Nm bi-turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel mated with a ten-speed automatic transmission is used.
 
Where the FX4 trumps the Raptor is pulling power, it has a towing capacity of 3500kg and a payload rating of 981kg. A towbar is included as standard.
 
A specific colour range will be offered which includes Conquer Grey (previously a Raptor-only colour) and Alabaster White.
 
The 2021 Ford Ranger 4x4 FX4 Max will join the Ranger line-up from December priced from $65,940 plus on-road costs.
 
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