Better than Raptor? 2024 Ford Ranger V6 gets factory-backed wide-body makeover in new on-road performance variant - but what's the catch?

Ford has revealed the Ranger V6 MS-RT, a high-performance variant which is lower and wider, and equipped with unique suspension to maximise handling. As a result, Ford dubs it the "ultimate street truck".

Other changes include a new body kit for "muscular motorsport inspired styling", with a new grille and flared wheel arches said to be "inspired by extreme Ranger racing trucks in Asia". To that end, it is also equipped with a ducktail spoiler out the rear and a second one sitting atop the cab. Far from just being aesthetic, Ford says the design of these spoilers was properly optimised using computer simulations to assist with aerodynamic balance.

Completing the look and selling its on-road performance credentials, the MS-RT also has diamond-cut 21-inch alloy wheels and its suspension is said to be significantly firmer than the standard  dual-cab thanks to revised dampers at the front, and a tweaked set-up in the rear.

Despite the fact that it is 82mm wider with a 40mm wider track and a 40mm height reduction, it maintains a 1000kg payload and 3500kg towing capacity. Alongside the standard 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, 10-speed automatic transmission and 'e4WD' full-time four-wheel-drive system.

Inside, it scores new seats with deeper bolstering, 'non-animal eco-leather and suede' with MS-RT design touches and blue stitching. The steering wheel is also a sportier version with MS-RT branding and a 12-o-clock marker.

According to the brand, "if Ranger Raptor is the ultimate off-road truck, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate street truck". So, what's the catch?

Well, it's probably not coming to Australia - at least not anytime soon. The MS-RT is a special variant to be launched in the UK market where the MS-RT sub-brand (itself a spin-off of the M-Sport brand which builds Ford vehicles for motorsport) calls home. In fact, the ute itself is set to undergo final assembly in the United Kingdom and will go on sale throughout Europe.

Despite being a fellow right-hand-drive market, the Rangers which head to the UK are even built in a different factory, with the UK division sourcing the ute from South Africa instead of Thailand - where Australian versions are assembled.

Regardless, CarsGuide has contacted Ford Australia for comment on the slammed and widened performance ute and its chances for our market.

It's also not the only MS-RT model which was announced. The performance marque also stuck its badge on the Transit Custom van with a similar exterior treatment, complete with spoilers and big performance-oriented 19-inch wheels which are half an inch wider than the standard wheels.

Performance credentials are also bolstered by a 50mm wider track and enhanced outputs. The fully electric version has its total output lifted to 210kW, while a 2.0-litre diesel version scores a 125kW output with the option of all-wheel drive. Finally, the PHEV variant pairs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for totals of 170kW.

Inside, the van also scores additional side-bolstering for the driver's seat, a similar MS-RT branded performance theme and materials for the interior trim, and is even available with rear seats in a crew configuration.

The 2024 Transit is yet to arrive in Australia, but is scheduled to hit our shores before the first half of the year is over. It comes with refreshed styling and is more capable with more safety equipment than ever before, but Australian launch variants will only be available with a single 2.0-litre diesel drivetrain option.