Ford Ranger XLT Review: The Bakkie That Owns Every Parking Lot

By: Byron Lukas

Your friendly Inbound SA driver is back, and this time the keys belong to something special — the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT Double Cab, affectionately nicknamed “Snow White.”

After a whole week behind the wheel, from Cape Town’s rush-hour traffic to dusty gravel backroads, one thing became clear: this isn’t just a bakkie. It’s a lifestyle upgrade, a statement on wheels, and proof that hauling cement can be done with serious style.

Power That Punches Above Its Weight

Beneath the bonnet, the Ranger XLT hides a 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine delivering 154kW and 500Nm of torque. Translation? Effortless towing power for caravans, trailers — and possibly your neighbour’s ego.

It may sit between the entry-level models and the flashy Wildtrak or Raptor, but the XLT is no middle child. Instead, it’s cheeky, practical, and more than capable of stealing the limelight.

Cabin Comfort That Feels Indulgent

Inside, the Ranger XLT trades the “farm workhorse” feel for a mobile lounge. An 8-inch SYNC® infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports keep you connected and entertained.

Comfort is prioritised with cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone climate control — turning even a 6-hour Karoo drive into a pleasure trip.

Built for Both City and Adventure

The Ranger XLT is equally at home navigating Sandton traffic or kicking up dust on backroads. Its selectable drive modes, 4×4 capability, and safety features — including pre-collision assist and adaptive cruise control — blend adventure with everyday reassurance.

This bakkie doesn’t force you to choose between thrill and prudence. You get both.

Classic White, Confidently Styled

South Africans love a white bakkie, and the Ranger XLT wears it with pride. Chrome accents, a bold grille, and 17-inch alloys strike the right balance between rugged and refined. Whether parked outside the mall or the rugby field, this bakkie draws attention for all the right reasons.

Price vs. Value

With a starting price of around R622,000, the Ranger XLT isn’t the cheapest option out there. But think of it as three cars in one: a family SUV, an off-road companion, and a reliable workhorse. Suddenly, the value starts to add up.

Verdict: A Bakkie With Personality

If bakkies had dating profiles, the Ford Ranger XLT would tick every box: charming, versatile, reliable, fun-loving, and dangerously good-looking. It doesn’t just get you from A to B — it makes sure you arrive with flair.