Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Ford Ranger Platinum, specifically tailored for the Australian market. If you're like me, you've probably been seeing this beast of a truck all over the roads and wondering if it lives up to the hype. So, buckle up as we explore everything from its luxurious features to its rugged performance, and ultimately, decide if it's worth your hard-earned dollars. Let's get started!

What is Ford Ranger Platinum?

The Ford Ranger Platinum sits at the top of the Ranger lineup, offering a blend of luxury and capability. It's designed for those who want a workhorse that can also serve as a comfortable and stylish daily driver. Think of it as the executive suite on wheels, combining the ruggedness of a traditional ute with the premium features you'd expect in a high-end SUV. It’s specifically tailored for markets like Australia, where utes are not just work vehicles but also status symbols.

When you hear "Platinum", think plush interiors, advanced technology, and a commanding presence on the road. This isn't your run-of-the-mill work truck; it’s a statement. Ford has packed it with features that aim to make every drive a pleasure, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails. The Ranger Platinum sets itself apart with unique styling cues, enhanced comfort, and a suite of tech upgrades that aren’t available on lower trims. It aims to bridge the gap between a traditional work ute and a luxury vehicle, offering a compelling option for buyers who want the best of both worlds. Its unique selling proposition is its ability to deliver a premium experience without sacrificing the practicality and durability that the Ranger is known for.

Exterior Design

When it comes to the exterior, the Ford Ranger Platinum makes a bold statement. The first thing you'll notice is its distinctive grille, finished in a unique platinum chrome that sets it apart from the rest of the Ranger family. The LED headlights are sleek and modern, providing excellent visibility while adding to the truck's premium look. The daytime running lights (DRLs) are also LED, further enhancing its contemporary appeal. Stepping up to the Platinum trim gets you exclusive alloy wheel designs, usually 20-inch, which not only look fantastic but also contribute to a more planted and confident stance on the road.

Chrome accents are strategically placed around the vehicle, including the door handles, side mirrors, and window surrounds, adding a touch of elegance without being overly flashy. The power-operated roller shutter for the bed is a standout feature, offering both convenience and security for your cargo. It can be controlled via the key fob or a button in the cabin, making it easy to access the bed while keeping your belongings safe and out of sight. The Platinum also features side steps, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle, especially useful given its height. The tailgate is damped, meaning it lowers gently and smoothly, preventing any sudden drops.

Overall, the exterior design of the Ranger Platinum is a well-executed blend of ruggedness and refinement. It has a commanding presence on the road, thanks to its bold grille, distinctive lighting, and premium finishes. The added functionality of the power roller shutter and damped tailgate make it practical for both work and leisure. Whether you're parked in the city or out on a rural property, the Ranger Platinum is sure to turn heads.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the Ford Ranger Platinum, you're greeted with a cabin that prioritizes comfort and technology. The seats are wrapped in premium leather, offering excellent support and a luxurious feel. Both the front seats are power-adjustable and heated, ensuring you find the perfect driving position and stay comfortable in any weather. The Platinum trim also adds unique stitching and embossed logos, further enhancing the upscale ambiance. The dashboard and door panels feature soft-touch materials and elegant trim accents, creating a refined and inviting space.

The centerpiece of the interior is the large, vertically-oriented touchscreen display, which runs Ford's SYNC infotainment system. This system is intuitive and responsive, offering seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen also displays the feed from the 360-degree camera system, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. A digital instrument cluster replaces the traditional analog gauges, providing a wealth of information in a clear and customizable format. You can choose what data to display, from speed and fuel economy to off-road information and navigation prompts.

The Ranger Platinum comes standard with a premium sound system, delivering crisp and immersive audio quality. Other notable tech features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue on long journeys. The ambient lighting system allows you to customize the cabin's atmosphere with a range of colors, adding a touch of personalization. Overall, the interior of the Ranger Platinum is a significant step up from lower trims, offering a combination of luxury, comfort, and cutting-edge technology that makes every drive a pleasure.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Ford Ranger Platinum typically comes with a powerful engine that delivers ample performance for both on-road and off-road adventures. While engine options can vary by market, the Platinum often features Ford's robust 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine. This engine produces plenty of horsepower and torque, providing effortless acceleration and confident towing capability. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, which offers quick and precise gear changes. The Ranger Platinum also features a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system with various modes to tackle different terrains, including sand, mud, and rock.

On the road, the Ranger Platinum offers a refined and comfortable ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and vibrations, providing a smooth and composed driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver the truck in urban environments. Sound insulation is excellent, keeping road noise to a minimum and creating a quiet and relaxing cabin. Off-road, the Ranger Platinum shines thanks to its high ground clearance, robust suspension, and advanced traction control systems. It can confidently tackle challenging trails and obstacles, making it a capable companion for outdoor adventures. The electronic locking rear differential provides additional traction when needed, ensuring you can get through even the toughest conditions.

The Ranger Platinum also comes with a range of driver-assist technologies that enhance safety and convenience. These include hill descent control, which automatically manages the truck's speed on steep declines, and trailer sway control, which helps to keep your trailer stable while towing. Overall, the performance and handling of the Ranger Platinum are impressive, offering a blend of power, comfort, and capability that makes it a versatile and enjoyable vehicle to drive.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's break down the Ford Ranger Platinum into its pros and cons so you can get a clearer picture:

Pros:

• Luxurious Interior: The Platinum trim offers a significant upgrade in interior quality, with premium leather seats, soft-touch materials, and elegant trim accents.
• Advanced Technology: The large touchscreen display, digital instrument cluster, and suite of driver-assist technologies make it a tech-savvy choice.
• Powerful Engine: The available 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine provides ample power and torque for both on-road and off-road driving.
• Distinctive Styling: The Platinum's unique grille, chrome accents, and alloy wheel designs give it a premium and eye-catching appearance.
• Versatile Capability: With its four-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, and robust suspension, the Ranger Platinum is capable both on and off-road.

Cons:

• Price: The Platinum trim is the most expensive in the Ranger lineup, which may put it out of reach for some buyers.
• Size: The Ranger is a large vehicle, which can make it challenging to maneuver and park in tight urban environments.
• Fuel Economy: While the diesel engine offers decent fuel economy, it's not as efficient as some smaller SUVs or sedans.
• Ride Quality: While the suspension is generally comfortable, it can feel a bit firm on rough roads, especially with the larger alloy wheels.
• Potential Overkill: If you don't need all the luxury features and off-road capability, a lower trim Ranger might be a more practical choice.

Is It Worth It?

So, the big question: is the Ford Ranger Platinum worth the investment? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you're looking for a ute that offers a combination of luxury, technology, and capability, then the Ranger Platinum is definitely worth considering. It's a step above the standard Ranger, with a more refined interior, advanced features, and distinctive styling. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need all the bells and whistles, a lower trim Ranger might be a more sensible choice.

Consider what you'll primarily use the truck for. If you're going to be spending a lot of time on the road, whether it's commuting to work or taking long road trips, the Platinum's comfortable interior and advanced driver-assist features will be a welcome addition. If you frequently go off-roading or need to tow heavy loads, the Platinum's powerful engine and four-wheel-drive system will come in handy. On the other hand, if you're mainly using the truck for work around town, a lower trim Ranger might be sufficient.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Ranger Platinum is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Get behind the wheel, experience the interior, and try out the features. Compare it to other utes in its class and consider your budget. With a bit of research and careful consideration, you can make an informed decision and choose the Ranger that's right for you.