Global Ford Ranger Gets a Refresh for 2019

The ‘rest of the world’ gets U.S. spec styling, new tech, and the Ranger Raptor’s turbodiesel for 2019.

Here in America, we’re counting down the days until the Ford Ranger makes its triumphant return to the U.S. market. And after months of anticipation, we know exactly what the new mid-size pickup will look like. But around the rest of the world, the Ford Ranger has already been on sale for a number of years. And instead of leaving them out on the fun, Ford is giving the global Ranger a bit of a refresh for 2019 as well.

Of course, this isn’t some kind of major redesign. Styling updates are minor, consisting of a new grille and reshaped lower bumper. The grille now more closely resembles the U.S. spec Ranger, which isn’t a huge surprise. Also for 2019, XLT and Wildtrak Rangers receive new HID headlights and LED running lights for improved visibility. Trim changes inside the cabin are reported to be minor.

The global Ranger does receive a big tech upgrade for 2019, however. New driver assist options include Pre-Collision Assist with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection and Autonomous Emergency Braking Traffic Sign Recognition and Active Park Assist. Ford’s “Easy-Lift” tailgate has also been added for extra convenience. As well as unspecified suspension updates aimed at improving ride quality and reducing body roll.

The biggest news for the global 2019 Ford Ranger, however, comes under the hood. International buyers will have the option of getting the Ranger Raptor‘s 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel in both XLT and Wildtrak Rangers, along with the 10-speed automatic transmission. The carryover 3.2-liter five-cylinder and 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engines remain unchanged.

For us here in America, these changes are rather interesting. Even though we’re getting what is essentially a global Ranger with different drivetrains, Ford’s choice to match up styling between the two is a good sign. Maybe next we’ll finally get some more info on an American version of the Ranger Raptor!

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.