When Ford rolled out the next-generation platform for its mid-size truck lineup, the mid-tier performance and lifestyle trim captured the bulk of buyer attention. If you're looking at the 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Double Cab, you aren't just buying a basic work vehicle. You're getting a lifestyle-oriented dual-cab ute built to handle heavy commercial tasks during the week and long family road trips on the weekend. Powered by either a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel or the punchy 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel, this truck strikes a careful balance between car-like cabin comfort and hard utility.
The vehicle delivers a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload capacity hovering around 951 kg, depending on engine choice and specific market equipment. Inside, a portrait-oriented 12-inch touchscreen running Ford's SYNC 4 system shifts the interior away from utilitarian plastic into high-tech territory. Whether you're comparing it against older generations or cross-shopping rivals like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max, understanding its true capability on paper and on the road helps clear up the marketing hype.
Engine Options and Mechanical Performance
Under the sculpted hood, buyers had two distinct diesel powerplants to choose from during the 2022 rollout. The engine choice dictates how the truck drives under load and how it behaves on fuel efficiency.
- 2.0-Litre Bi-Turbo Four-Cylinder: Generates 157 kW of power at 3,750 rpm and 500 Nm of torque starting at 1,750 rpm. It uses sequential turbochargers—a smaller one for low-end response and a larger one for high-end pulling power.
- 3.0-Litre Turbo-Diesel V6: Produces 184 kW of power at 3,250 rpm and a heavy 600 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm. This engine pairs with a full-time four-wheel-drive system rather than a traditional part-time setup.
Both engines channel power through a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the transmission offers plenty of ratios to keep the engine in its optimal power band, it can occasionally hunt for gears when climbing steep inclines with a heavy trailer attached. Real-world fuel consumption for the V6 hovers around 8.4 L/100 km on a combined cycle, though towing heavy loads will push that figure past 13 L/100 km quickly.
Payload, Towing, and Cargo Bed Utility
A dual-cab utility vehicle lives or dies by its working capacity. The Wildtrak handles everyday trade demands well, but you have to keep a close eye on your weight distribution.
+--------------------------+-----------------------+
| Metric | Specification |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+
| Max Braked Towing | 3,500 kg|
| Maximum Payload | Approx. 951 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) | 3,350 kg |
| Gross Combined Mass | 6,400 kg |
+--------------------------+-----------------------+
The cargo tub features integrated side steps behind the rear doors to make reaching into the bed easier without dropping the tailgate. Ford also added internal tie-down rails with adjustable cleats, clamp pockets molded into the tailgate, and an optional factory cargo management system. If you plan to load up the back, remember that the Gross Combined Mass limit means you can't max out both your 3,500 kg trailer and your maximum payload simultaneously without exceeding legal weight limits. You can check official safety ratings and structural evaluations directly through ANCAP Safety.
Interior Technology and Cabin Ergonomics
Stepping inside the cabin reveals a massive shift from older utility trucks. The centerpiece is a vertically oriented 12-inch multimedia display running wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical climate dials remain at the base of the screen for quick temperature adjustments without digging through sub-menus while driving.
Storage solutions are scattered throughout the cabin. You get dual gloveboxes, deep door pockets, a wireless charging pad ahead of the shifter, and hidden storage bins underneath the rear bench seat. The Wildtrak signature orange stitching accents the leather-accented seats, steering wheel, and dashboard, giving the cabin a distinct personality that separates it from standard fleet-spec models. Rear passenger space is improved over the previous generation, though tall adults will still find knee room tight on long road trips.
Safety Equipment and Driver Assistance
Modern trucks must meet strict safety guidelines to earn top marks. This model comes loaded with active and passive safety features designed to protect both occupants and other road users.
- Nine airbags, including a front-center airbag to prevent head clashes between the driver and front passenger during a side impact.
- Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- Lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning.
- Blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage.
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and speed sign recognition.
The driver-assist systems work well on marked highways, but suburban lane markings can occasionally trigger false positive alerts from the lane-keep assist. You can quickly toggle these settings off using the steering wheel controls if you prefer a less intrusive drive on rough backroads. To review detailed vehicle ownership costs and maintenance schedules, you can reference the official Ford Owner Support portal.
Common Owner Complaints and Real-World Considerations
While the truck received praise across automotive publications, owners note a few persistent quirks worth keeping in mind before buying used:
- Transmission Gear Hunting: The 10-speed gearbox can occasionally hesitate or shift abruptly between gears at low urban speeds, especially when the transmission fluid is cold.
- Paint and Trim Vulnerabilities: The signature black styling elements and optional roller shutters require regular maintenance to prevent moisture buildup and mechanical jamming in dusty or freezing environments.
- Size and Parking Constraints: At over 5.3 meters long and nearly 2 meters wide, squeezing into tight multi-story parking garages requires reliance on the 360-degree camera system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 2.0L and 3.0L Wildtrak engines?
The 2.0-litre bi-turbo is a four-cylinder engine focused on fuel economy and lighter daily duties, while the 3.0-litre V6 provides smoother power delivery, heavier towing confidence, and a full-time four-wheel-drive system.
Does the Wildtrak come with a factory bed liner?
Yes, it features a durable molded plastic tub liner equipped with integrated cargo hooks and tie-down rails to secure shifting gear.
Can the Wildtrak tow 3,500 kg in everyday conditions?
It is rated for a maximum braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg, but towing that weight safely requires careful loading to stay under the Gross Combined Mass limit of 6,400 kg.
How often does the 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak need service?
The recommended service interval is every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever occurs first, depending on operating conditions and towing frequency.
