/ Featured Article

Ford Ranger FX4 MAX — Key Features

The key features that make the FX4 MAX a unique addition to the Ranger lineup

Autodeal on Mar 11, 2021

The Ford Ranger FX4 MAX is the 14th variant of the Ranger to join the local lineup in the Philippines. It is aimed at being an off-road-ready vehicle that comes with all the equipment needed to go on the road less traveled. Positioned under the Ford Ranger Wildtrak, the FX4 MAX is for those who want a more rugged vehicle compared with its more lifestyle-oriented stablemate. While some may consider it as the more affordable option to the Ranger Raptor, there are a few key differences between the two.

The grille design is different from the Ranger Raptor

While not a major departure from the Ranger Raptor, the FX4 MAX’s grille design is both different from but also a bit similar to the Ranger Raptor’s. Both vehicles come with the F-O-R-D designed grille, the FX4 MAX comes with an embossed Ranger nameplate spelled out on top. The Raptor, on the other hand, only has more slats on the top and bottom of the grille to allow for more airflow. Also, something to note, is that the fenders are much smaller in the FX4 MAX compared with its Ranger Raptor sibling.

The FOX shocks are smaller

The Ford Ranger FX4 MAX was designed to be a very off-road capable vehicle and, as such, Ford Philippines gave it a set of FOX shocks. Not to be confused with the FOX shocks found on the Ranger Raptor, these are much smaller in diameter. While the Raptor gets 2.5-inch diameter shocks, the FX4 MAX only gets 2.0-inch diameter ones. This was designed to give the new variant a balanced ride that is both suited for cargo and for off-road purposes. Ford has also tuned the leaf springs on the vehicle, to give it a better balance between its two intended purposes: being a work truck and an off-road vehicle.

Designed to be accessorized

Ford Ranger FX4 MAX Auxiliary power pack.

The Ford Ranger FX4 MAX was designed by the Blue Oval to be accessorized. This is why Ford Philippines added an auxiliary power pack to the vehicle. This allows accessories such as winches and lights to be installed onto the vehicle with ease and without the need for extra wiring solutions into the equation. Ford has also added switches to the dashboard to suit this very purpose, further cementing the FX4 MAX’s image of being an off-road vehicle.

Power is plentiful

Unlike its contemporary FX4 sibling, the FX4 MAX comes with the Raptor’s heart underneath. Just like its performance pickup truck counterpart, it too is powered by the 2.0-liter Biturbo engine that produces 210hp and 500 Nm of torque. However, it is important to note that the FX4 MAX does not come with the terrain management system present in the Raptor. It does, however, retain the same off-road technology that is found in the FX4 and Wildtrak variants. Just like the variants above it, the newest addition also comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission that guarantees you the most from its engine, thanks to its many gears.

A unique set of side steps

Continuing with the theme of being a tough off-road vehicle, the Ford Ranger FX4 MAX also comes with its own set of side steps attached to the vehicle. Instead of having just one flat step board, the new variant comes with metal hoops, allowing for slightly better ground clearance over bumps. Not to worry, though, as Ford Philippines has made sure that metal comes with a non-slip coating, to ensure that even while wet, you still have enough grip under your feet when entering and exiting the FX4 MAX.