Carlex and MS-RT create Ford Ranger with off-road capability and stylish interior

For many people, the idea of a vehicle that can deliver exceptional off-road capabilities is typically seen as mutually exclusive with a comfortable interior. All of that is expected to change with the reveal of the customized Ford Ranger.

Created by Carlex Design in partnership with MS-RT Road Technology, this Ford Ranger can take on any terrain while making sure that occupants get to experience total comfort. Though this combination may come as a surprise to many, what is more surprising is how the team calls this customized version. The two companies have dubbed this off-roader as the VR/46. It’s quite surprising that the name is inspired by motorcycle racing champion Valentino Rossi, a racer known mainly for winning races on the track instead of on the dirt roads.

In terms of actual contribution, Carlex was in-charge of refurbishing the interior. Looking into the cabin therefore, one is likely to see Nappa leather upholstery with both the console and the center of the seats revealing stitched patterns. Meanwhile the seatbacks and the headrests are embroidered with the VR/46 letters. The design of the steering wheel shows the middle having a striped pattern with a number of sections decorated with leather. According to Carlex, these changes ensure that comfort and overall grip are both improved. When it comes to the color, majority of the interior shows different shades of black though the gearshift has a yellow strip which gives the inside that needed flash of color.

MS-RT on the other hand customized the Ranger by putting in the Duratorq 3.2-liter diesel engine which is capable of 197 hp (147 kW) with peak torque of 347 lb.-ft. (470 Nm). The company made changes as well to the bumper in the front by putting in assist LED lights in the center. The rear section meanwhile reveals a new exhaust with each having a large outlet. There is now the graphite-finish 18-inch wheels fitted with the BF Goodrich tires. Overall, the off-road pack offered for the Ranger allows for an LED light bar to be placed on the roof, life the suspension, and has an underbody fuel tank protector.

Although MS-RT said that its custom trucks are offered in the U.K., Carlex at the same time disclosed that it will be entering the Poland market. With this customized Ford Ranger, the two companies are able to show what their true capabilities are. This is important as the next-generation of the Ranger is expected to arrive in the U.S. market during the latter part of 2018. There’s no doubt that a vehicle that excels off-road while offering a comfortable interior is indeed unique.

Ford meanwhile said that it will be offering the Ranger in two configurations, the Super Cab and the Crew Cab. Though it will be also be coming out with an off-road focused version, it will come in more standard styles. In the U.S., the initial models to be offered will mainly be equipped with gas-fueled engines.