SEMA 2019: Brawny Ranger Answers Call of the Wild

2019 Ranger cleverly turned into tough overlanding rig with off-road possibilities as big as all outdoors.

Wanderlust is a great motivator. That desire to hit the road and explore sparks some of the most thrilling adventures. Of course, if you plan on taking the road less traveled, you’re going to need a truck that can handle its challenges. At this year’s SEMA, we spotted the right Ford Ranger for the job.

This custom built 2019 Ranger XLT Sport Supercrew FX4 overlander was created by Advanced Accessory Concepts. We weren’t the only ones blown away by this force of nature, as it was rightfully chosen as one of the “Top Ten Overland Vehicles of SEMA 2019.”

While the Ranger been heavily modified, it retains the stock turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I4 powertrain. The reasoning behind that decision was two-fold. First, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. And second, it makes it easy to maintain, repair, and obtain parts while traveling.

To make the truck more durable, AAC added upgrades to the body armor and added ICON 3.5 ” suspension. The truck was further fortified with AFN bumpers, skid plate, rock sliders, and Ford Performance rear differential cover.

What really pops out is the rear bed conversion. Boasting an AFN aluminum tray bed and canopy, it includes storage and living components as well as the Tepui Hybox tent. If you need it, you’ve got it: fridge and freezer, on-board air compressor, tool kit. And, there’s still room for more.

Riding high on Falken Wildpeak MT tires and ICON Vector wheels, this Ranger can tackle any manner of terrain.

Inside, the interior is well-protected by seat covers and floor liners. It has comfort and conveniences covered.

The function of each part was clearly considered, and used thoughtfully. And all components are top-notch in quality.

We really like how the modifications work in harmony with the Ford truck DNA. Despite being an overlanding truck, it is still pure Ford Ranger. Well, maybe a Ford Ranger with a little more attitude. But its earned its swagger, look at that sneering front end!

As a result of seeing a Ranger so well-equipped for overlanding, we are definitely ready to the hit the road, the trails, and maybe some uncharted territory.

Photos: Derin Richardson for Ford Truck Enthusiasts 

S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.