2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Black: A Full Deep‑Dive Review

What Sets the Wildtrak Black Apart?

The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak in sleek black arrives as the most rugged, yet refined, midsize pickup in its segment. Its bold matte‑finished exterior instantly signals a purpose‑built attitude, while the cabin quietly upgrades comfort with leather‑trimmed seats and a dual‑zone climate system. Under the hood, the proven 2.0‑liter bi‑turbo diesel churns out 210 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, delivering both low‑end grunt for towing and a confident highway cruise.

Ford’s Wildtrak badge traditionally denotes a blend of off‑road capability and lifestyle flair, and the black‑painted version leans heavily into the latter. The matte finish isn’t just aesthetic; it hides minor scratches better than glossy coats, a subtle advantage for owners who venture off the beaten path.

Key Design Details You’ll Notice

• Exterior accents: Blacked‑out grille, roof rails, fog lamps, and alloy wheels give the Ranger a cohesive, stealthy look.
• Ground clearance: 210 mm (about 8.3 in), complemented by a robust skid plate beneath the engine.
• Lighting: Full‑LED headlamps with adaptive cornering light, plus LED daytime running lights that complement the dark theme.

Inside, the dashboard features a 12‑inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s SYNC 4 system. The interface feels snappy, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without a noticeable lag. Soft‑touch materials line the door panels, and a subtle carbon‑look trim adds a sporty vibe without overwhelming the cabin’s utility focus.

Performance and Capability

When you press the accelerator, the bi‑turbo’s low‑end torque is evident. The Ranger can haul a 3,500‑kg trailer—a respectable figure for a midsize pickup—while still maintaining a comfortable ride quality thanks to its independent double‑wishbone front suspension and leaf‑spring rear setup. The selectable terrain modes (Normal, Mud & Sand, and Rock Crawl) adjust throttle response, traction control, and gearbox shifts to suit the surface beneath you.

If you’re curious about real‑world fuel consumption, owners report an average of around 7.5 L/100 km (≈31 mpg) when mixing highway cruising with occasional off‑road excursions. Those numbers sit comfortably between the more thirsty V6 rivals and the frugal compact pickups.

Tech, Safety, and Driver Assistance

Ford equips the Wildtrak Black with an extensive suite of driver‑assist features. Standard items include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and a Blind‑Spot Information System that flashes when a vehicle lurks alongside. The optional 360‑degree camera package pairs a roof‑mounted camera with four peripheral views, making low‑speed manoeuvring a breeze—even when a loaded tailgate blocks rear visibility.

The SYNC 4 infotainment system supports over‑the‑air updates, meaning the software can improve without a dealership visit. Voice commands are accurate enough for routine functions like changing the radio station or setting a navigation destination, reducing the temptation to take eyes off the road.

Comfort, Cargo, and Everyday Practicality

Inside, the Wildtrak Black balances workhorse practicality with a touch of luxury. The rear bench folds flat, expanding the cargo floor to a usable length of 1,750 mm (about 69 in). The tailgate features a split‑gate design, letting you drop the lower leaf independently for easier loading of bulky items like ladders or surfboards.

Seat comfort is noteworthy on longer journeys: the driver’s seat offers eight adjustments, including lumbar support, while the passenger seat mirrors a four‑way adjustment. Noise insulation, especially at highway speeds, rivals some larger SUVs, thanks to strategic acoustic glass and under‑carriage dampening.

Pricing, Trims, and Value Proposition

In most markets, the 2023 Ranger Wildtrak Black starts at around $45,000 USD, though exact pricing varies by region and optional packages. Compared to the standard XL or XLT trims, the Wildtrak adds roughly $5,000–$7,000 in equipment, which includes the off‑road suspension upgrades, the blacked‑out styling package, and the enhanced infotainment suite.

When you stack the numbers, the value proposition looks solid. You receive a vehicle that can tow more than many full‑size pickups, yet it remains manageable in urban settings. The resale value for Ford Rangers traditionally holds well, especially for limited‑edition colour runs like the black variant.

Ownership Experience and Common Owner Feedback

Owner forums highlight a few recurring themes: the matte paint fares well in dusty environments, the bi‑turbo diesel is both powerful and reasonably efficient, and the cabin feels more refined than its predecessor. Some owners note that the ride can feel a bit stiff on rough gravel roads, a compromise of the off‑road suspension setup.

Maintenance intervals remain standard for a diesel pickup—service every 15,000 km or twelve months, whichever comes first. Parts availability, especially for the blacked‑out accessories, is generally good, given Ford’s extensive dealer network.

Should You Consider the 2023 Ranger Wildtrk Black?

If you need a vehicle that comfortably shuttles a work crew, hauls a boat, and still looks stylish on a city street, the Wildtrak Black checks most boxes. Its combination of power, technology, and aesthetic distinctiveness makes it a compelling alternative to both conventional pickups and crossover SUVs.

However, if you prioritize a plush ride over ruggedness, or if you prefer a gasoline engine for lower emissions, you might look at the Ranger's other powertrains or even rival models like the Toyota Hilux Trail. The decision ultimately hinges on how you balance daily usability with occasional adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fuel economy of the 2023 Ranger Wildtrak Black?

Owners typically report an average consumption of about 7.5 L per 100 km, though exact figures depend on load, terrain, and driving habits.

Does the Wildtrak Black come with a warranty?

Ford offers a standard three‑year/100,000‑km warranty on the drivetrain, plus a two‑year/24,000‑km warranty covering the vehicle’s basic components.

Can the 2023 Ranger tow a caravan?

Yes, the bi‑turbo diesel version is rated to tow up to 3,500 kg, making it suitable for most mid‑size caravans and travel trailers.

Is the matte black paint prone to staining?

The matte finish actually conceals light scratches and dust better than glossy coats, though regular cleaning with a pH‑balanced matte‑safe shampoo helps maintain its depth.