In an ever-cluttered world with so much variation on a theme, it’s sometimes hard to stand out when you subscribe to a particular niche. Double-cab bakkies are found in nearly every square inch of the country, buzzing up and down, all serving seemingly similar purposes. Standing out is not easy and as a result, many owners turn to modifications and accessories, creating their own variation on a theme. Ford has noticed this, and even though they have their Ranger Wildtrak offering, they spotted a market for a slightly more exclusive product. Enter the Ranger Fx4.

Based on the segment-leading 3.2 TDCi Double Cab XLT 4x4 model, the Fx4 is available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. It has a few additional factory-fitted options and styling enhancements that guarantee to set it apart on the road.

Ford took a look at popular aftermarket accessories and modifications and then based the Fx4 design on these, offering the peace of mind that comes with manufacturer-backed accessories, knowing that your warranty will not be affected by these changes. Naturally, these additions affect the price and you will pay an additional R15 000 over the standard list price for the Fx4, meaning that the manual version will cost you R593 900 and the automatic R608 900. It is all backed by Ford Protect, including a 4yr / 120 000km warranty, 5yr / 100 000km service plan, 3yr / unlimited km roadside assistance and 5yr / unlimited km corrosion warranty. Ford even includes complimentary 4x4 training with the purchase of an Fx4.

The Fx4 benefits from the latest Sync 3 system; complete with Android Auto, Apple Car Play and navigation. It’s a user-friendly system and despite the fact that the climate control is tied into the system, is improved massively over the outgoing Sync 2 infotainment.

The Fx4 is available in four colour variations; Frozen White, Sea Grey, Panther Black and the one we tested, Moondust Silver. The Fx4 treatment sees the addition of matte black decals on the bonnet, tailgate and Fx4-branded stripes along the flanks.

The grille and upper bumper section has received a Panther Black metallic coating while the fog lamp surrounds are finished in a matte black. The door handles and wing mirrors are also draped in the metallic black finish, as are the roof rails. The ensemble is complemented by a matte black, tubular sports-bar at the rear. The load bin receives a hard-wearing bedliner and the rear bumper gets the same black treatment.

The wheels are a modest 17-inches in diameter and shod with 265/65R17 dual purpose tyres and while they are of the original design, they have been given a lick of Panther Black paint to tie them in with the rest of the look.