Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak review. If you're in the market for a robust, versatile, and stylish pickup truck, the Wildtrak is probably on your radar. We're going to dissect everything from its performance and features to its comfort and reliability to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs. Let's get started!

Overview of the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak

The Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak is the top-of-the-line trim level for the Ranger, offering a compelling blend of rugged capability and premium features. It’s designed to appeal to those who want a truck that can handle tough jobs during the week and adventurous outings on the weekend. With its distinctive styling, powerful engine options, and a host of tech and safety features, the Wildtrak stands out in the crowded pickup truck market. The 2018 model year marked a significant point in the Ranger's lifecycle, offering enhancements and refinements over previous versions. One of the key highlights of the Wildtrak is its durability. Ford has a long-standing reputation for building tough trucks, and the Ranger Wildtrak is no exception. It's built on a robust chassis, designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. Whether you're hauling equipment to a job site or navigating rocky trails, the Wildtrak is engineered to handle it with ease. This durability is complemented by a range of practical features, such as a sturdy cargo bed, ample towing capacity, and advanced traction control systems. These features make the Wildtrak a reliable workhorse that can tackle a variety of tasks.

Beyond its ruggedness, the Wildtrak also offers a level of comfort and sophistication that is often lacking in other pickup trucks. The interior is well-appointed, with premium materials and thoughtful design touches. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The cabin is also relatively quiet, thanks to Ford's efforts to reduce noise and vibration. This makes the Wildtrak a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country adventure. Furthermore, the Wildtrak comes equipped with a range of tech features that enhance both convenience and safety. These include a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and connectivity options that keep you connected on the go. Ford has also made a concerted effort to improve the overall driving experience of the Wildtrak, with features such as responsive steering, smooth suspension, and powerful brakes. These improvements make the Wildtrak a joy to drive, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails.

Performance and Engine Options

The performance of the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak is a significant factor for anyone considering this truck. It typically comes with a range of engine options, with the most popular being a 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. This engine delivers a robust 147 kW (197 horsepower) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) of torque. What does that mean for you? It means the Wildtrak has plenty of grunt for towing, hauling, and tackling challenging terrains. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. The automatic transmission is particularly well-suited to the Wildtrak, providing seamless power delivery and enhancing the overall driving experience. In addition to the 3.2-liter diesel, some markets may offer other engine options, such as a smaller displacement diesel or a gasoline engine. These engines offer different performance characteristics, with some prioritizing fuel efficiency and others focusing on power output. Regardless of the engine you choose, the Wildtrak is designed to deliver a confident and capable driving experience.

When it comes to off-road capabilities, the Wildtrak truly shines. It comes standard with four-wheel drive, giving you the traction you need to tackle slippery surfaces, steep inclines, and rocky trails. The Wildtrak also features an electronic locking rear differential, which can be engaged to provide maximum traction in challenging situations. This feature is particularly useful when navigating uneven terrain or when one wheel loses traction. Furthermore, the Wildtrak has a decent amount of ground clearance, allowing it to clear obstacles without scraping the undercarriage. The suspension is also tuned for off-road use, providing a comfortable and controlled ride even on rough surfaces. Whether you're exploring remote wilderness areas or simply navigating unpaved roads, the Wildtrak is well-equipped to handle the task. The truck also benefits from Ford's expertise in building tough and reliable vehicles. The Wildtrak is designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use, with a reinforced chassis, durable suspension components, and protective skid plates. This ensures that the truck can handle the demands of challenging terrain without breaking down or suffering damage. With its combination of power, traction, and durability, the Wildtrak is a capable and confidence-inspiring off-road vehicle.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Moving inside, the interior comfort of the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak is surprisingly good for a pickup truck. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The Wildtrak typically features leather upholstery with unique stitching and Wildtrak badging, adding a touch of premium flair. The driving position is also excellent, with good visibility and plenty of adjustment options for the seat and steering wheel. The dashboard is well-designed and easy to use, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The cabin is also relatively spacious, with enough room for five adults to sit comfortably. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, making the Wildtrak a practical choice for families or groups. The interior is also thoughtfully designed with plenty of storage compartments, including door pockets, a center console, and a glove box. These storage spaces provide ample room for stowing personal items and keeping the cabin clutter-free.

In terms of technology, the Wildtrak doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which features an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system is user-friendly and responsive, making it easy to access your favorite apps, navigation, and music. The Wildtrak also features a premium sound system, delivering crisp and clear audio quality. Other tech features include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a range of driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features enhance both safety and convenience, making the Wildtrak a pleasure to drive. Ford has also made a concerted effort to integrate technology seamlessly into the interior design. The touchscreen display is well-integrated into the dashboard, and the various controls and buttons are logically laid out. This creates a cohesive and user-friendly experience that enhances the overall driving experience. With its combination of comfort, technology, and thoughtful design, the interior of the Wildtrak is a standout feature.

Exterior Styling and Features

The exterior styling of the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak is bold and distinctive, setting it apart from other pickup trucks on the market. It features a unique grille design, aggressive front bumper, and distinctive Wildtrak badging. The truck also comes with stylish alloy wheels, adding to its sporty and rugged appearance. The Wildtrak is available in a range of eye-catching colors, allowing you to customize the truck to your personal taste. The overall design is both functional and stylish, with features such as a sturdy cargo bed, integrated side steps, and a convenient tailgate. The cargo bed is designed to handle heavy loads, with a durable bedliner and tie-down points for securing cargo. The side steps make it easy to access the cargo bed, while the tailgate is designed for easy opening and closing. The exterior styling of the Wildtrak is a perfect blend of form and function, making it a head-turning truck that is also practical and versatile.

Beyond its appearance, the Wildtrak also offers a range of practical features that enhance its usability. These include a tow bar, bed liner, and various storage compartments. The tow bar allows you to easily tow trailers and other equipment, while the bed liner protects the cargo bed from damage. The storage compartments provide ample room for stowing tools and other items, keeping the cabin clutter-free. The Wildtrak is also available with a range of optional accessories, such as a sports bar, roof rack, and awning. These accessories allow you to further customize the truck to your specific needs and preferences. Ford has also made a concerted effort to improve the overall durability of the exterior design. The Wildtrak is built with high-quality materials and finishes, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The paint is also designed to resist scratches and fading, keeping the truck looking its best for years to come. With its combination of stylish design, practical features, and durable construction, the exterior of the Wildtrak is a standout feature.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering any vehicle, reliability and maintenance are crucial factors. The Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak generally enjoys a good reputation for reliability, but like any vehicle, it's not without its potential issues. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations, is essential to keep the Wildtrak running smoothly. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule can help prevent costly repairs down the road. It's also important to address any minor issues promptly, before they escalate into more significant problems. Ford has a large network of service centers, making it easy to find qualified technicians to perform maintenance and repairs. The cost of maintenance for the Wildtrak is generally reasonable, although it can vary depending on the type of service required. It's always a good idea to get a quote from a few different service centers before committing to any work.

Some common issues reported with the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak include problems with the automatic transmission, particularly with harsh shifting or slipping. Issues with the turbocharger have also been reported. Additionally, some owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or crashing. It's important to note that these issues are not necessarily widespread and may only affect a small percentage of vehicles. However, it's still worth being aware of them when considering the Wildtrak. Before purchasing a used Wildtrak, it's always a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. This can help identify any potential issues and give you peace of mind. It's also a good idea to check the vehicle's service history to see if it has been regularly maintained. With proper maintenance and care, the Wildtrak can be a reliable and dependable vehicle.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak:

Pros:

• Powerful engine options
• Excellent off-road capabilities
• Comfortable and well-equipped interior
• Stylish exterior design
• Good towing capacity

Cons:

• Can be expensive compared to other pickup trucks
• Fuel economy can be relatively poor, especially with the diesel engine
• Some potential reliability issues

Final Verdict

So, is the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak worth it? Overall, the Ford Ranger 2018 Wildtrak is an excellent pickup truck that offers a compelling blend of capability, comfort, and style. It's well-suited to those who need a versatile vehicle that can handle both work and play. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. Consider your specific needs and budget, and be sure to research potential reliability issues. If you're looking for a truck that can handle tough jobs, explore off-road trails, and provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, the Wildtrak is definitely worth considering. But if you're on a tight budget or prioritize fuel efficiency, you may want to explore other options.