Some gems appeared at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show - the Ford Ranger Storm Concept definitely being one of them. The other one? The Toyota Hilux Gazoo Racing truck. Interestingly enough, neither will be coming to the U.S. Well, the Ranger Storm Concept, if approved for production, will be one of the closest things to a Ranger Raptor without actually being the Raptor. Considering that Ford confirmed that the Ranger Raptor wouldn’t be coming in the U.S., something like the Ranger Storm Concept or the other one that appeared at the Sao Paulo International Motor Show - the Ranger Black Edition could be a wonderful addition to the U.S. range.

Without further ado, let’s see what the Ranger Storm Concept and the Ranger Black Edition are all about.

What Make The Ford Ranger Storm Concept and Ford Ranger Black Edition Special?

Before I dwell into all the novelties introduced on the Ranger Storm, I have to tell you what I think makes it special. First of all, even before we in the U.S. gain access to Ranger trucks, Ford seems to be doing a blitzkrieg with churning out its different versions. And, all of them are really cool. All of them unattainable. The Ranger Storm Concept is one of those unattainable ones. And, while we may not get it in the form presented here, I am quite sure that it will, from the sidelines, prepare our market for all the possibilities the new Ranger is to bring. So, yes, while it is cool and off-road capable, I think its far more important trait is the fact it shows the versatility Ford has imagined with it.

Exterior

Building on top of the Limited trim level, the Ford Ranger Storm Concept and the Ranger Black Edition feature numerous additions that make them meaner and neater. I find the Ranger Storm Concept, somewhat inspired by the smaller EcoSport Storm, a bit more intriguing. Bear in mind, both of these are unveiled in Brazil, for the Brazilian market, but I am sure if one pushes enough for trims like these, they could appear in the U.S. as well. Flared fenders, a massive snorkel, and a set of cool black wheels make it rather astute and, actually, mean. Then, add to this black details on the front such as the black front bumper, darkened pieces on the doors, and rather dark orange finish. It all ends up making the Ranger quite different compared with the stock version. Sure, it is not as cool as the Ranger Raptor, but it is cool enough. After all, not any car can wear Pirelli MTR Scorpion all-terrain tires this Storm wears.

While the Ranger Storm Concept makes the most of the off-roading additions, the Ranger Black Edition definitely seems to be focused on city tasks. Devoid of color, mean in its appearance and wearing 18-inch wheels, the Ford Ranger Black Edition is like opposite of the Ranger Storm. In essence, I’d have them both in my garage if possible. One for adventure, the other for show off.

Interior

Not much has been revealed about the Ford Ranger Storm Concept or the Ranger Black Edition interiors. Usually, the Limited trim includes stuff such as the SYNC 3 Infotainment system, magnificent leather seats and a full set of electrical equipment such as powered seats and powered mirrors. The Ranger Storm Concept and the Ranger Black Edition are certain to have all these features. Possibly decorated with some specialty pieces emphasizing their exterior character.

Drivetrain and Performance

I did not say that these two are, in some sense, closer to the Ranger Raptor than the one that will actually be sold in the U.S. No, these numbers aren’t the same as those of the 2.0-liter, twin-turbocharged diesel in the Raptor, but are really close to it. With more capacity, I believe that this 3.2-liter engine actually makes more sense than the 2.0-liter in the Raptor. Take this with a grain of salt as I haven’t driven either yet.

The engine is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and a standard four-wheel drive system.

Final Thoughts

While all of us definitely drizzle over the different versions of the Ranger trucks and actually think that Ford won’t be as adventurous with it in the U.S., I am quite sure that we worry in vain. Ford will give us everything we want and everything we need. Actually, I am quite sure that the worldwide invasion of different Ranger versions is like a trailer for the rich offering we will get here. Honestly, the Ranger Storm Concept and the Ranger Black Edition are both awesome, yet, we will get even nicer Rangers that thins. Mark my words.

Further Reading

Read our speculative review on the 2019 Ford Ranger.

Read our full review on the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor.