Sebagai peneraju pasaran trak pikap di Malaysia, Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), pengedar tunggal kenderaan Ford di negara ini, telah memasuki tahun baharu dengan pelbagai pencapaian yang membuktikan prestasi kukuh jenama tersebut pada 2023 dan sekali gus memantapkan kedudukannya dalam industri automotif negara.
SDAC-Ford mencatatkan jualan pecah rekod tertinggi dengan 8,858 unit Ford Ranger dan Ford Everest dijual pada 2023, mencerminkan pilihan dan tahap kepercayaan pengguna Malaysia yang semakin kukuh terhadap prestasi luar biasa, teknologi canggih dan kualiti terulung kenderaan Ford.
Sejak dilancarkan, Ford Ranger Generasi Baharu ternyata popular dan mendapat sambutan memberangsangkan di pasaran Malaysia kerana prestasi dan kualiti luar biasanya. Model Ranger Raptor Generasi Baharu enjin Petrol 3.0L menawarkan enjin berkuasa V6 Twin Turbo dengan tork 397PS dan 583Nm, membawakan pengalaman memandu yang luar biasa. Sementara itu, model Ranger Platinum Generasi Baharu yang baru dilancarkan pada bulan November tahun lepas, dilengkapi dengan ciri-ciri kecanggihan yang menjanjikan keselesaan mewah dan teknologi pintar.
Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), the exclusive distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, continues to assert its dominance in the pickup market, as evidenced by a series of achievements that underscore the brand’s robust performance throughout 2023, solidifying its position in the nation’s automotive industry.
In a remarkable feat, SDAC-Ford achieved record-high sales, with a staggering 8,858 units of the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest sold in 2023. This milestone reflects the growing trust and preference of Malaysian consumers for Ford vehicles, renowned for their exceptional performance, advanced technology, and superior quality.
Particularly, the Next-Gen Ford Ranger has garnered immense popularity within the Malaysian market since its launch, owing to its outstanding performance and unmatched quality. Notably, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L Petrol engine model, equipped with a potent V6 Twin Turbo engine delivering 397PS and 583Nm of torque, offers exhilarating driving experiences. Meanwhile, the recently launched Next-Gen Ranger Platinum model boasts sophisticated features that promise luxurious comfort and cutting-edge technology.
A pivotal factor contributing to SDAC-Ford’s success is its strategic expansion of the dealership network, aimed at elevating the Ford service experience. Last year, the company commenced the construction of the latest RM12 million Ford Signature dealership in Penang, situated strategically on Jalan Baru in Seberang Prai. Spanning an impressive 46,000 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility showcases a cutting-edge Ford 3S centre adhering to the latest Ford Signature Corporate Identity standards, featuring sixteen service bays and four vehicle display areas. Scheduled for full operation by the end of Quarter 2, 2024, this dealership promises to set new benchmarks in customer service and satisfaction.
In a strategic move to tap into the thriving pickup market of East Malaysia, SDAC-Ford significantly expanded its presence across the region. Recognising Sabah as the third-largest pickup market in the country, the company launched two key dealerships in the state, namely Ford Kota Kinabalu (Inanam), Boston Auto Dealership, and Ford Kota Kinabalu (Penampang), Rightpower Corporation.
Furthering its strategic expansion, SDAC-Ford inaugurated Ford Kota Samarahan, Jimisar Aruna dealership in October 2023, located in the UniVista Commercial Centre, Jalan UniVista Off Jalan Express Way in Kuching, Sarawak. Positioned near a major expressway for enhanced accessibility and within a bustling commercial center, this dealership strengthens the brand’s presence in East Malaysia. These developments bring the total number of Ford dealerships in East Malaysia to nine, and nationwide to thirty-eight, solidifying SDAC-Ford’s footprint across the region.
The accolades received further underscore Ford’s unparalleled capabilities and innovation, with the Next-Gen Ranger WildTrak clinching the prestigious Malaysia Car of the Year 2023 award for Best Truck and the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo receiving an Honorable Mention. Additionally, the Ford Ranger secured various accolades including Carlist.my’s People’s Choice Award for the Best Pickup Truck 2023 and the Allianz DSF.my Vehicle of the Year (VOTY) Award 2023 for ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year,’ among others.
Ford sekali lagi bergabung dengan MS-RT, divisi jalan raya M-Sport, untuk memperkenalkan Ranger MS-RT yang sangat dinantikan, menandakan penambahan penting kepada pasaran pikap Eropah. Dijangka akan tersedia di agen Ford Pro, pikap yang disesuaikan ini dijadualkan akan muncul di jalan-jalan Eropah pada penghujung tahun ini, mencetuskan kegembiraan yang besar di kalangan peminat.
Mengambil inspirasi dari rakan perlumbaan Ranger di Asia, Ranger MS-RT mempunyai penampilan yang agresif. Dengan bahagian depan yang direka semula yang menampilkan kerja badan yang khas, grille sarang lebah, dan splitter yang terintegrasi, pikap ini menarik perhatian di jalan. Badannya yang diperlebar sebanyak 82mm dan lengkungan yang dibesarkan memperkuat kehadirannya, membuat kenyataan yang kuat. Di bahagian belakang, diffuser yang berfungsi dan spoiler ducktail yang halus menambah profil aerodinamiknya.
Ford has once again teamed up with M-Sport’s road-going division, MS-RT, to introduce the highly anticipated Ranger MS-RT, signalling a significant addition to the European pickup market. Set to be available at Ford Pro dealerships, this customised pickup is slated to hit European roads later this year, sparking considerable excitement among enthusiasts.
Drawing inspiration from the Ranger’s racing counterparts in Asia, the Ranger MS-RT boasts a bold and aggressive stance. With its redesigned front end featuring distinctive bodywork, honeycomb grille, and integrated splitter, the pickup commands attention on the road. Its widened body by 82mm and flared arches amplify its presence, making a powerful statement. At the rear, a purposeful diffuser and subtle ducktail spoiler add to its aerodynamic profile, enhancing its sporty allure.
Enhancing its performance credentials, the Ranger MS-RT features specially tuned, firmer suspension, lowering the ride height by 40mm for improved handling dynamics. Rolling on 21-inch diamond-cut wheels wrapped in low-profile tires, it delivers both style and performance.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Pro Europe, describes the Ranger MS-RT as the “ultimate street truck,” offering a unique proposition in the European pickup segment. Despite its sporty character, it maintains its practicality, retaining a one-tonne load-carrying capacity and 3,500kg towing capabilities. Under the hood lies a robust 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, delivering 236bhp and 600Nm of torque to all four wheels through a seamless 10-speed automatic gearbox.
Inside, the cabin blends luxury with sportiness, featuring faux leather upholstery accented with special blue stitching and MS-RT badging. The ‘sports steering wheel’ with a blue 12 o’clock marker enhances the racing-inspired ambiance, ensuring an engaging driving experience.
With its fusion of performance, style, and practicality, the Ranger MS-RT is poised to captivate pickup enthusiasts across Europe.
Ford Malaysia, in collaboration with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), is set to launch a unique automotive podcast series titled “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life.” This pioneering podcast, available on Spotify starting January 28, 2024, distinguishes itself by transcending traditional automotive narratives, focusing on the human aspect of the Ford Ranger lifestyle.
Unlike conventional content centred on technical specifications, the “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life” podcast adopts an engaging storytelling format. Through heartfelt anecdotes, interviews, and shared experiences, the podcast explores the stories and journeys of Ford Ranger owners and the vibrant Ranger community, showcasing the iconic truck’s role as a companion in work, family, and leisure.
Sebagai meraikan hubungan erat dan perkongsian minat yang sama terhadap gaya hidup aktif dan mencabar bersama Ford Ranger, Ford Penampang (Rightpower Corporation) baru-baru ini telah menganjurkan sebuah acara penting — Perhimpunan Mega TT ke-7 2023 — dengan kerjasama Kelab Pemilik Ford Ranger (FROC) Borneo.
Bertempat di J Borneo Native Village di Penampang, ia merupakan acara terbesar anjuran kelab berkenaan setakat ini, dan berjaya menghimpunkan 107 ahli kelab dengan Ranger kebanggaan mereka yang datang dari pelbagai lokasi di Sabah, Labuan dan bahkan Brunei.
Keseluruhannya terdapat 320 peserta, terdiri daripada pemilik dan ahli keluarga mereka yang mengikuti acara berkenaan, bertujuan untuk memperkukuhkan lagi keakraban berkomuniti dalam kalangan mereka yang berkongsi minat yang sama terhadap Ranger.
In a grand celebration of shared passion and camaraderie, Ford Penampang (Rightpower Corporation) recently played host to the 7th Mega TT Gathering in collaboration with the Ford Ranger Owners Club (FROC) Borneo Region.
This monumental event, held at the J Borneo Native Village in Penampang, marked the largest gathering organised by the club to date, uniting 107 club members and their formidable Ford Rangers from various locations across Sabah, Labuan, and Brunei.
The event drew a total of 320 participants, including owners and their family members, fostering a strong sense of community among enthusiasts and like-minded individuals. The 7th Mega TT Gathering went beyond a typical meet-up, offering a day filled with vibrant activities, thrilling games, soulful karaoke sessions, and exciting performances.
The highlight of the day was the recognition of outstanding Rangers across various categories, with awards and prizes adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SAC), the exclusive distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has introduced two new Ford models to the Malaysian market. One of these models is the top-tier Ranger Platinum, expanding the Ford Ranger lineup.
The New Ranger Platinum offers exceptional comfort and a host of premium features while maintaining the Ranger’s renowned capability and versatility. It is exclusively available in a double cab configuration and is powered by Ford’s 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine, producing 210PS and 500Nm of torque. This power is transmitted through the Ranger’s electronically controlled part-time four-wheel-drive system, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and an e-Shifter.
The exterior of the Ranger Platinum features unique enhancements, including a distinctive grille, 20-inch alloy wheels (a first for the Ranger), Platinum hood badging, Silk Chrome trims, Matrix LED headlamps (another first for the Ranger), a dampened tailgate, and Ford’s innovative Flexible Rack System (a first for the class), Swing-in-Place Roof Rails, and Power Roller Shutter. It is also available in the Equinox Bronze paint colour.
Inside, the Ranger Platinum boasts premium appointments, including quilted leather-accented seats, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-inch infotainment screen with the latest SYNC@4A, B&O speakers, ambient lighting, E-Shifter, Active Park Assist 2.0, heated and ventilated front seats, 10-way power adjustment with memory function for the driver (a first for the class), and more. The interior design draws inspiration from the Everest, featuring a closed shelf and upper glovebox.
The New Ranger Platinum is highly versatile, equipped with Ford’s Flexible Rack System and Swing-in-Place Roof Rails that can be adjusted to two different lengths. This allows owners to easily transport items of various sizes. The system is designed to be operated by one person and locks into five different positions along the length of the load box. Additionally, a pop-up crossbar increases the height of the loading platform to match the Swing-in-Place Roof Rails.
The Ranger Platinum’s price in Peninsular Malaysia starts at RM183,888 (on-the-road without insurance), with variations for other regions. It comes with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty or 160,000km, whichever comes first, and offers the option to extend coverage with a Premium Care extended warranty package (EWP). Extended Service Plan (ESP) packages tailored to specific customer needs are also available.
Customers who book the New Ranger Platinum during the launch event at Bamboo Hills in Kuala Lumpur from November 3-5, will receive a complimentary Xiaomi Phone Holder with an automatic open and close feature upon vehicle delivery. Additionally, they will receive a Ford Ranger Getaways Discount of RM1,000 via a promo code at the time of vehicle delivery.
Ford is set to expand its Ranger midsize pickup lineup by introducing a plug-in hybrid version in early 2025. This Ranger PHEV is designed to offer a zero-emission range of over 45km, allowing for longer trips without relying on charging infrastructure. It’s engineered to retain the towing, payload, and off-road capabilities of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts.
The powertrain of the Ranger PHEV combines a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a battery of undisclosed capacity. While specific specs were not revealed, Ford promises that the plug-in hybrid system will deliver “more torque than any other Ranger.”
Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners can boost their 4×4 driving skills and explore the capabilities of their trucks through two Ford Ranger Getaways training sessions.
The first, on August 26, 2023, will be at the M4TREC Beginner 4WD Course in Semenyih, Selangor. The second, on September 16, 2023, will take place at the Sar4Trac Beginner 4WD Course in Kampung Barieng, Bau, Sarawak.
These beginner-level 4WD courses are ideal for newcomers to off-roading, providing essential knowledge and techniques. The sessions are part of the Ford Ranger Getaways initiative, offering enhanced ownership experiences through adventure.
