While last month we shone a spotlight on the new Toyota Hilux, this month has proven that there’s some hot new competition for the title of Australia’s favourite ute in the 2023 Ford Ranger. Now topping the sales charts in September and storming past the Hilux as Australia’s most popular 4x4, there were 4381 sales of Ford Rangers for the month - a figure that’s a good 20% higher than Hilux sales for the same period.
In its 17th year of production, it’s looking as though the Ford Ranger will finally surpass the previously unassailable Toyota Hilux as Australia’s favourite ute. With a current wait time of nine months on new vehicles, we dive into why we love the Ford Ranger, how much it costs to buy, finance, or subscribe, and how you can get into one sooner than you think.
Reasons to drive a Ford Ranger
Tough, smart, and endlessly versatile, the new Next-Gen Ford Ranger is the perfect teammate for work, family, and play. The first new model in a decade, the new Ranger is packed with technology and best-in-class safety features, while boasting a bold new look and a range of gutsy four-cylinder and V6 engines. From a small single-cab 4x2 right up to a dual-cab 4x4 with a choice of pick-up and cab chassis trays, there’s a Ford Ranger for every budget and lifestyle.
Entry-level models (XL range) are powered by a 2.0-litre single turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, with an output of 125kW and 405Nm, six-speed auto transmission and rear- or selectable (part-time) four-wheel drive. Hit the top of the range and the Ranger Raptor is powered by a 292kW/583Nm, 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine with full-time four-wheel drive, complemented by a 10-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking something in between, the Ford Ranger XLT, Sport and Wildtrak models will give you plenty of scope to tweak your desired combination of power and capability.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Ford Ranger?
As is the case with many vehicles right now, getting into a new Ford Ranger can be tricky. If you’re willing to wait up to nine months for your new wheels (direct from the dealer), you’ll be up for anywhere between $29,190 (plus on road costs) for the base model Ford Ranger XL 2.2 LOW Rider (4x2), right up to $85,490 (plus on road costs) for the top-of-the-range Ranger Raptor 3.0 (4x4).
Used models are more readily available, however there can be some risk involved. Be sure to do your research, know the car’s history, get a full mechanical check and take the car for a test drive if you’re looking to get your mitts on a Ford Ranger on this side of Christmas.
How Much Does It Cost to Finance a Ford Ranger?
Many of us prefer to lease or finance a vehicle rather than buying outright - helping break down the overall cost that investing in a new vehicle can present. Be sure to assess your options fully, as it’s all about making the right choice for you, right now.
With finance, you can expect to pay the price of the vehicle plus interest (usually ranging between 6% and 20%, depending on your individual circumstances). This means that the top of the range Ford Ranger Raptor priced at $85,490 today, financed over 5 years at 9.5% interest (with no ‘balloon’ or residual payment), will set you back approximately $413 a week (plus fees), or $107,472 over the course of your loan (ex. government fees and charges). See how it can add up?
With most banks and lending institutions, you’ll also need to consider added monthly, lender, broker and ‘break’ fees if you’re wanting to pay off your loan early. These can add up to thousands of dollars extra, depending on your lender and finance term.
That’s why when it comes to finance, it’s a great idea to consider all your options. Online car loan comparison platforms like CarClarity can help you find the finance arrangement that works best for you.
Just remember – when financing or buying a car outright, you’ll need to factor in additional running costs including insurance, registration, servicing and other maintenance costs. Depending on your vehicle and frequency of use, these will range from approximately $150 to $600 per week.
Another alternative is a vehicle lease. You won’t own the car, but the cost of use, maintenance, insurance and registration is rolled into one easy regular payment, and you’ll need less money up front to get into a new vehicle. There are many pros and cons to both leasing and finance, so take some time to consider whether these options are right for you.
How Much Does It Cost to Subscribe a Ford Ranger?
We’ve covered the usual options, but we have some good news - there’s another. Our carbar car subscription service offers the best of both worlds. Similar to a lease, you can get into a new fully-maintained and comprehensively Ford Ranger for a simple weekly subscription cost. This is one of the most flexible and easiest ways to get into a Ford Ranger today - from as little as $371 per week.
There are minimum costs, but no minimum terms - unlike a lease. Just give us two weeks’ notice and we can swap your car or stop your subscription at any time.
If you love your subscription Ranger and want to own it, you can also now purchase your beloved subscription car when it works for you.
Unlike any other car retailers in Australia, carbar customers can also seamlessly switch their carbar subscription to a loan arrangement thanks to our latest partnership with car loan comparison platform, CarClarity.
The best part? You don’t even need to decide straight away. A car is a big purchase, so we allow our subscribers to switch to finance once they’re ready. Taking some time to try before you buy could save you a lot of money, time and hassle in the long run.
We’re adding new cars to our fleet every week, with a number of vehicles in the Ford Ranger range to choose from (and hundreds more) – whether you choose to subscribe, finance or buy.
The choice is always yours.
