Review - 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6

The only problem is, with so many variants on offer, it can be difficult to know which is the best for you.

To make things even more complicated, Ford offers the Ranger Wildtrak with two engines, a bi-turbo four-cylinder and this, the range-topping 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel.

This raises the question of whether you’re better off saving some money and opting for the Wildtrak with a four-cylinder bi-turbo, or if you should be stepping up to the range-topping six-cylinder turbo-diesel.

Let’s find out the answer by taking a look at the Wildtrak V6 and tossing up what it offers over the more affordable Ranger Wildtrak variant.

Starting Price: $70,190

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Ford Ranger - WILDTRAK 3.0 (4x4) Specifications

For more details and other variants, check Ford Ranger car page.

How Much Does It Cost?

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 is priced at $70,190, while the more affordable Wildtrak 2.0 is priced at $67,190.

Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change, and do not include on-road costs.

How Much Can OnlineAuto Save You?

Using OnlineAuto’s car buying service in Australia, you could save by using one of our car experts to help you find the best new car for you.

What Features Does the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Have?

Over the rest of the range, Ford’s Ranger Wildtrak picks up a set of 18-inch alloys (with a full-sized spare) wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain rubber, a Wildtrak front grille with grey highlights, a sports bar, a power-retractable tray cover, cargo management system, roof rails, leather upholstery with heated seats and Wildtrak seats, eight-way adjustable front seats, a surround-view monitor, automated parking assist and a 12.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

Range Features:

• 18-inch alloys with Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tyres

• Wildtrak front grille

• Sports bar

• Power-retractable tray cover

• Cargo management system

• Roof rails

• Leather upholstery with heated seats

• Surround-view monitor

• Automated parking assistance

• 12.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Colours

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak is available in a choice of seven colours, including the Wildtrak-exclusive Luxe Yellow, as well as Arctic White, Aluminium, Meteor Grey, Sedona Orange, Blue Lightning and Absolute Black.

Is the Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 Comfortable to Drive?

Taking the plunge and opting for the Wildtrak V6 over the more affordable Wildtrak 2.0 gives buyers access to Ford’s incredibly powerful 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel unit that produces 184kW of power and 600Nm of torque.

This is an upgrade of 30kW of power and 100Nm of torque over the Wiltrak 2.0, which can make a world of difference when fully loaded.

Power is thrown to all four wheels via Ford’s full-time 4x4 system and a ten-speed automatic transmission that is particularly smooth and intuitive at low speeds, and allows you to capitalise on all of the power and torque available when picking up speed.

As we’ve mentioned, the Wildtrak V6 picks up 18-inch alloys, which makes it particularly comfortable on the road thanks to the wide profile of the standard Goodyear Wrangler tyres that help to soak up smaller bumps along the way.

The combination is perfect for comfortable trips around town and long-distance journeys alike, and also lends itself particularly well to off-road driving.

What makes the Ford Wildtrak a truly impressive ute package is the fact that, even with its rugged platform and its off-road nature, the platform remains smooth around town and is surprisingly user-friendly for drivers new to the dual cab segment.

At low speeds, the steering wheel gains a heap of electrical assistance that makes it easy to park and maneuver, while the excellent visibility makes the package more approachable on daily drives, especially for drivers lacking confidence.

Is it a Capable Off-Roader?

The latest Ranger lineup has been designed with both the boxes of family-friendly motoring and off-road driving in mind, the latter of which it confidently ticks without breaking a sweat.

The V6 turbo-diesel’s 600Nm of torque combined with a heavy-duty suspension system, locking rear differential and Ford’s full-time 4x4 system with a low-speed transfer case means there’s a very small list of things the Wildtrak V6 can’t conquer.

The Ranger Wildtrak V6 also benefits from a smaller set of 18-inch alloys wrapped in Goodyear Wrangler all-terrain tyres, with the smaller rims over the Premium variant offering more suspension articulation within the wheel arches when tackling tough terrain.

In numbers, the Ranger Wildtrak V6’s approach and departure angles stand at an impressive 30 and 23 degrees respectively, with the break-over angle figure standing at 25.6 degrees, which means the Wildtrak V6 has some truly impressive off-road abilities.

How Much Cargo Can the Ranger Wildtrak V6 Fit and Tow?

In terms of the worksite potential of the Ranger Wiltrak V6’s, you’ll find a tray measuring 1845mm long, 1584mm wide - 1224mm between the wheel arches - and 529mm of height from the base of the tray.

This is enough space for the Wildtrak V6 to swallow up a standard European 1200mm x 800mm pallet without a problem.

There’s easy access to the tray thanks to a couple of steps where, inside, you’ll find six tie-down points and a power-retractable roller cover to help keep valuable tools and equipment safe on job sites and while parked overnight.

In terms of its weight restrictions, the Wildtrak V6’s payload figures stand at 951kg, with gross vehicle mass (GVM) and gross combination mass (GCM) figures standing at 3280kg and 6400kg, respectively, making it an extremely tough cargo mover.

Finally, the Ranger Wildtrak V6 has a braked towing capacity of 3500kg, matching the best towing figures you’ll find in the dual-cab ute segment.

Is it Fuel Efficient?

Ford says the Ranger Wildtrak V6 consumes 8.4L per 100km on a combined cycle, which is more than the 7.6L/100km figures of the Wildtrak 2.0, but very much on par with its other dual-cab ute rivals.

On a mix of largely highway driving, the Ranger Wildtrak V6 consumes around 7L/100km, while driving around town increases these figures to 8.7L/100km.

Is it Practical and Spacious?

The Ranger Wildtrak V6 is offered in dual-cab variants only, which is one of the most versatile body shapes when it comes to a work-ready platform that is also mighty practical for family duties.

Up front, the sheer amount of space and headroom makes the Wildtrak’s cabin feel undeniably spacious, while Ford’s clever packaging designs gives the Ranger a range of practical touches that are invaluable for families.

Practicality in the front of the cabin includes a wide centre consol that houses a spacious storage area behind the gear lever, a pair of cup holders, storage inside the folding arm rest, two glove boxes on the passenger side and large door bins on either side of the cabin.

The dash is dominated by Ford’s vertically-mounted 12-inch infotainment system which gives the cabin a modern aesthetic, while the Wildtrak-exclusive leather-upholstered seats feel comfortable and supportive.

Move to the rear and you’ll find there’s just enough room for adults in the second row of the Ranger Wildtrak, meaning no complaints from children seated in the rear, with a pair of ISOFIX anchors and top tether points.

Better still, there’s some added storage bins beneath the second row seats to help you stash any valuable gear inside the cabin, with a set of air vents and a folding rear armest with cup holders rounding out the practicality in the second row.

Is it Safe?

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating, scoring 84% for adult protection, 93% for child protection, 74% for vulnerable road user protection and 83% for safety assist.

As standard, the Ranger Wildtrack V6 picks up autonomous emergency braking, road-edge detection, lane-keep assist and departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, autonomous parking and a surround-view monitor.

Its five-star ANCAP rating combined with Ford’s generous approach to safety equipment makes the Wildtrak V6 a particularly heavy hitter when it comes to safety.

Our Verdict: Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 Worth it?

All things considered, the Wildtrak is a bit of a gem in the Ranger lineup, offering a heap of luxurious and practical touches without stepping up to the range-topping Premium and Raptor variants.

The ride quality benefits from the 18-inch wheels over the larger 20-inch alloys fitted to the Premium, which also makes the Wildtrak a more versatile and comfortable everyday package, all backed by Ford’s outstanding V6 powertrain and off-road-ready hardware.

As a result, the Wildtrak V6 is a very worthwhile upgrade from the more affordable Wildtrak 2.0, and is very deserving of a spot on your shortlist of dual cab utes. On that note,  if you’re in the market for a new car, you can get a free quote and see how much OnlineAuto can save you on your next car, or call us on 1300 719 925.

Five Specs You Need to Know

1. Five-year, unlimited KM warranty

2. 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 produces 184kW and 600Nm

3. 3500kg braked towing capacity

4. 951kg payload figures

5. Five-star ANCAP safety rating

Pros

• Immense torque from V6 turbo-diesel

• Outstanding off-road and towing performance

• Spacious and modern interior design

Cons

• No USB ports in the second row

• Lofty price tag

• Firm ride unloaded

OnlineAuto Rating: 9/10

Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 Competition

Competition