The idea of an all-in-one vehicle sounds logical in Singapore, given mind blowing taxation schemes that nudge us to find best case scenarios, including digging into the nitty gritty of how OMVs impact pricing strategies.

For reasons not entirely justified yet (other than exorbitant prices, which essentially affects every vehicle sold here!), trucks stacked with generous options have not gained a large following. But they can be very capable workhorses and family transporters - just peek across the border to notice how they’re being deployed. Double cab (4-door) trucks are sometimes preferred over SUVs too, which comes as no surprise considering the utilitarian nature of the rear loading bay.

And with this new Ford Ranger now ready for registration in Singapore, we have a proper large SUV rival to challenge familiar names in the business. We do not get the Ford Everest here, but they are based on the same ladder frame chassis that prioritises sturdiness over outright driving feel.

This is no 392bhp / 583Nm fire-breathing petrol-powered Ford Ranger Raptor (pictured, above) that dominated headlines in many markets since last year. Instead, we will receive a Ranger powered by a familiar 2.0-litre turbo diesel, good for 168hp and 405Nm of torque. One variant is available for now - Limited Variant. And it will retail for S$129,888 without COE.

It’s reassuring to know that the new Ranger is packed with all the creature comforts, just like how we’d expect on any modern SUV. There’s soft touch materials, a portrait-style centre touchscreen and these functions that seem to be mandatory for all modern vehicles by now - presence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

While you can spec a Ranger to be driven only by the rear axle in other markets, Singapore will receive the full-fledged 4 x 4 variant with three modes - 2H, 4L, 4H. That should be more than sufficient to bring you to the most secluded spot, while you work on your craft with help from the tailgate that doubles as a mobile workbench with clamp pockets to measure, grip, and cut building materials.

While Singapore does not encourage rough-and-tough duties as much compared to neighbouring countries, the new Ranger plays to its strength with a more premium appearance and luxurious cabin - slotting in well in urban landscapes. We’ll have to take it out for a spin to understand the true advantage of a ladder on frame chassis - watch this space!

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