Revisiting the familiar can sometimes be like stumbling through old photographs. It evokes nostalgia, and you're left wondering how time has sculpted the landscapes. Much like our memories, cars undergo transformations as they change hands, and returning to one you've already driven can be a revealing experience.
Ford, a brand renowned for its resilience encapsulated in the slogan "Built Ford Tough," extended an invitation that was hard to resist: a day of adventure and camping with the Ranger WildTrak. This wasn't just another normal office day, it was an opportunity to reconnect with the essence of adventure along with great company.
The adventure began with a rendezvous at the Starbucks drive-thru in the heart of Bonifacio Global City (BGC). As the sun intermittently peeked through the clouds and light drizzles kissed the pavement, we fortified ourselves with morning snacks and coffee. This was the starting point of an expedition that would lead us to a destination I had only heard of but never visited—Lake Caliraya.
Lake Caliraya, an artificial lake oasis made during the 1930s, has long been a retreat for those who possessed both the means and patience to embark on the journey. Taking the wheel for the first leg of the journey from BGC to Lake Caliraya, I was astounded to learn that our estimated arrival time, according to Waze, was a mere two and a half hours. It was surprising, given our proximity to the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), but it was soon evident with the number of provincial roads we had to traverse.
Ford granted us the liberty to set our own pace and savor the vehicle uniquely. I chose the path of serenity, opting to glide effortlessly along the highway, which didn’t last long, so we then opted for a more spirited approach in search of a nearby gas station due to our poor bladders. The Ranger Wildtrak seamlessly transitioned from a capable off-roader to a laidback cruiser, but should power be needed for overtaking, the 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine of the 4x2 variant was very willing to put the power down as well. The driving experience on smooth roads was a reminder of its dual personality of tough usage and an everyday partner. Remarkably, the cabin's NVH levels were superb, shielding us from outside chaos. As for the ride quality, we still think it is class-leading for a pickup truck—not a luxury sedan, but exceptionally comfortable for its class.
One of the standout features of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak is the abundance of standard amenities, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Moreover, it boasts a full ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite with adaptive cruise control, among other enhancements. This technology was a godsend, especially for the long drive going south. Thanks to the Ranger's ADAS system, maintaining a calm demeanor throughout the journey was effortless.
We arrived at Lake Caliraya slightly before 10 AM, with each participant finding their own spot on the camping grounds. As we settled in, I couldn't help but marvel at the lake's grandeur. Massive lake communities like this are often associated with Western countries, making this discovery within the Philippines all the more enchanting. The atmosphere exuded tranquility and relaxation, setting the stage for our tailgate picnic.
Gathered around, munching on snacks, we soon realized that idle motoring journalists have an inexhaustible capacity for car talk and gossip. Lunchtime beckoned, and the nearby Italian restaurant added a touch of rustic elegance to our camping adventure. We indulged in pasta, pizza, and more tales from the road. When the conversation eventually waned (as it inevitably does), we strolled to the lake's shore for a boat tour of this remarkable man-made marvel.
While we were exploring the picturesque lake through a boat ride, encompassed by charming lakeside cottages, the sky suddenly grew overcast and filled with thunderous echoes. Before long, the skies unleashed a deluge, prompting us to retreat to our campsite swiftly. We disembarked from the boat and hurried toward the Ford Rangers to seek shelter as the rain intensified. It felt almost as though the lake itself was signaling the end of our visit, so we heeded its unspoken message and commenced our journey back home.
The drive back wasn’t as leisurely as the initial voyage since the amount of traffic called for us to take a long way home up the hills of Tanay and Antipolo. This was a great chance to see what the Ford Ranger was like in the corners and mountain roads. It still performed very well with a great chassis but was only let down by its tires. Then again, this wasn’t built for performance driving; the Ford Mustang is there to fit that bill.
Overall, This journey also allowed us to step into the shoes of a genuine Ford Ranger owner: one who embraces camping and an active, outdoor lifestyle. It was the perfect confluence of company, location, and vehicle that rendered this mini-drive an unforgettable odyssey. In other words, this is what lifestyle trucking is all about. Perfect for Ford’s Truck Month celebration
In the world of automobiles, the journey is often as significant as the destination, and this expedition with the Ford Ranger WildTrak was a testament to that hypothesis. It reminded me that sometimes, it's worth revisiting the past, not just to relive it but to discover how it has transformed and evolved over time. Like the enduring spirit of the Ranger WildTrak, memories are etched with the patina of experience, and each adventure is a chapter waiting to be written.
Latest Features
-
Should the 2024 Nissan Livina VE be your next family car? / Featured Article
The Nissan Livina VE is here to turn your family trips into good memories with its features and design.
-
Which Ford should I buy? / Tips & Advice
What Ford will be yours?
-
Top 8 overland-capable vehicles available in the Philippines / Featured Article
These overland-capable vehicles sold in the Philippines are our pick to jump-start your adventure.
Popular Articles
-
Cheapest cars under P700,000 in the Philippines
Aug 25, 2023
-
First car or next car, the Ford EcoSport is a tough package to beat
Jun 18, 2021
-
Car Maintenance checklist and guide – here’s everything you need to know
Earl Lee · Jan 12, 2021
-
Most fuel efficient family cars in the Philippines
Bryan Aaron Rivera · Nov 27, 2020
-
2021 Geely Okavango — Everything you need to know
Joey Deriquito · Nov 19, 2020
-
Family cars in the Philippines with the biggest trunks
Sep 20, 2023
-
Head to head: Toyota Rush vs. Suzuki XL7
Joey Deriquito · Oct 28, 2020
-
Why oil changes are important for your car
Earl Lee · Nov 10, 2020
-
2021 Kia Stonic — What you need to know about it
Joey Deriquito · Oct 16, 2020
-
Top 7 tips for buying a used car in the Philippines
Joey Deriquito · Nov 26, 2020