The market for medium size pickups here in Brazil may be small but it keeps growing largely thanks to sales in medium-size and small cities, especially those where agribusiness is strong. In 2015 the sector accounted for 4.5% of all vehicle sales, rising to 5.9% in the first quarter of 2016.
The model update cycle speeded up in 2016 with the brand new Fiat Toro joining the fray with all versions offering 1,000 kg/2,204 lbs or slightly higher payload, five passengers included. Toyota's Argentina-built Hilux, renewed late in 2015, has, as we suggested, kicked Chevrolet's S10 from leadership in the first four months of 2016 (the GM vehicle has been segment best-seller since launch 21 years ago). Ford's Ranger was also updated.
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Now the S10 has been given a more modern look with a new front section, including LED DRLs in top versions. The rear end is untouched, though. Inside, new materials have been introduced, an eight inch multimedia screen with Gen-2 connectivity and OnStar service was added. There are now alerts for unintended lane change and following too close.
Power steering is now electric assist and the flexible-fuel engine was enlarged to 2.5 litres, developing 203bhp and 197.5lb-ft (on ethanol). The diesel option still makes 197bhp and the segment's highest torque of 369lb-ft, coupled to an automatic gearbox; reduced to 324.8lb-ft if fitted with a manual gearbox; both have six speeds.
Kerb weight has been reduced by up to 35 kg/77lb. Prices were held: BRL97,890/US$27,800 to BRL67,490/$47,600. There are 13 versions.
As for the Ranger, the front section was redesigned but not the rear. The top Limited is fitted with a chromed, tubular anti-roll bar and side running boards. Ford has refurbished the cabin with new materials, multi-function steering wheel, and a partially-configurable instrument cluster, together with an eight inch multimedia screen.
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By GlobalDataThe Ford has improved in active (ESC) and passive safety (seven airbags including one for the driver's knees), all standard. Car technology like adaptive cruise control, autonomous anti-collision braking system and unintended lane change assistant are also offered along with rear view camera, electronically-controlled high beam and front and rear distance sensors.
The Ranger also is now fitted with electrically assisted steering in all versions to contribute to up to 15% fuel economy improvement for the three available engines: a 2.5-litre/170bhp/180 lb-ft, flexible-fuel four-cylinder and two diesels; a 2.2-litre/158bhp/282lb-ft four-cylinder and a 3.2-litre/197bhp/347lb-ft five-cylinder.
In total there are 10 versions – all double-cab – RWD and FWD (the latter diesel only), five-speed manual and six-speed automatic gearboxes. Prices range from BRL99,500/$28,300 (XLS, flex) to BRL 79,900/$51,100 (Limited, Diesel). It is the first pick-up ever sold in Brazil with a five-year warranty.
