Ford Ranger MS-RT Debuts: It's Wider and Lower, But It's Not for America

This version is not going to be available in the United States as it is exclusively sold in Europe. It is wider and lower but has no power upgrades.

The Ranger MS-RT is the result of the partnership between Ford and its rally partner, M-Sport, so it looks athletic from every angle. The vehicle received a redesigned front fascia inspired by the racing versions. The honeycomb grille is flanked by the LED headlights and signature C-Clamp DLRs.

It rides on 21-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels with an anthracite finish, wrapped in low-profile, noise-reducing premium tires, and sports flared wheel arches, which make it 82 millimeters (3.2 inches) wider compared to other Ranger versions. MS-RT came up with gloss black mirror caps and door handles.

It is instantly recognizable due to the MS-RT graphics. It also reviewed new side sills, a spoiler at the back of the cab, a rear ducktail spoiler, and a restyled motorsport-inspired bumper at the rear, integrating an air diffuser.

Ford and MS-RT came up with unique seats with prominent bolstering, wrapped in hand-crafted black vegan leather and suede with contrasting blue stitching. The MS-RT badging shows up on the headrests. There is a new steering wheel on board with a blue marker at 12 o'clock, and it is also heated.

Ford's SYNC 4 connectivity via a 12-inch touchscreen mounted in the center console ensures combination and entertainment.

The mid-size pickup truck sits 40 millimeters (1.6 inches) lower due to its specially tuned sports suspension. It also comes with a 40-millimeter wider track. MS-RT claims that the new vehicle means zero compromise.

Doctor James Kerr, Design and Engineering Director, says that these mods on the standard Ford Ranger have the sole purpose of making the pickup truck look imposing, which is appealing to customers.

The Ford Ranger MS-RT is powered by Ford's turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine in its stock form, generating 238 horsepower (240 metric horsepower) and 443 pound-feet (600 Newton meters) of torque. A ten-speed automatic and the e4WD full-time four-wheel drive steer the output and torque to all four corners.

The Ranger MS-RT comes with a 1-ton (2,204 pounds) payload and a towing capacity of 2.5 tons (7,716 pounds).

If the Ranger is not suitable for them, European customers can also order the Transit Custom MS-RT. Both are available through Ford Pro dealers. First customers will be getting their vehicles starting in mid-2024 in one of the six colors available: two shades of grey, white, silver, black, and MS-RT Blue, with the latter being available from April onwards. This version is a Europe-only affair.