So far confirmed for the Australian and New Zealand markets, which still don’t get the Ranger Stormtrak, the Ranger Wildtrak X bridges that small gap between the high-performance Ranger Raptor and recreation-oriented Wildtrak models.

The Ranger Wildtrak X benefits from new shock absorbers. Although they’re not Fox shock absorbers (leave that to a probable FX4 Max coming in the near future), the Wildtrak X comes with Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers. With a monotube design and nitrogen-charged external reservoir, this allows for better off-road performance while also improving its on-road cornering.

In addition, Ford is plucking stuff from its tech shelf like LEGO, and sloted in a full-time four-wheel drive system to the Wildtrak X (as opposed to a part-time system). This is the first time the 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel will be made available with the full-time four-wheel drive in Australia and New Zealand (the ASEAN Ranger Stormtrak gets the feature as well).

The Ranger Wildtrak X also comes with Trail Turn Assist which helps the truck negotiate tight bends by applying the brake on the inside rear wheel reducing the turning radius. It’s designed to be used on loose surfaces at speeds under 19km/h and can be used when the truck is engaged in either 4H or 4L and the rear differential is unlocked. In certain circumstances, Trail Turn Assist can reduce the Wildtrak X’s turning circle radius by up to 25 percent.

In addition, several features first introduced in the Ranger Raptor also find their way to the Wildtrak X. These include Trail Control which helps drivers maintain a constant low speed while off-roading (like an off-road cruise control) and Rock Crawl which maximizes the available traction by automatically engaging a unique throttle and transmission calibration.

The Ranger Wildtrak X is visually differentiated by its steel bash plate, cast aluminum side steps, new off-road grille design with auxiliary LED lamps, and the Flexible Rack System. Ford designers have also re-painted the grille surround, H-bar, wheel lip moldings, fender vents, mirror caps, door handles, and rear bumpers in asphalt black.

Inside, the Ranger Wildtrak X has suede and leather combination seats along with a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. It’s also outfitted with an overhead auxiliary switch bank for aftermarket accessories.

With Ford now relying on the Ranger for a bulk of their sales in the region, it won’t be surprising if Ford Philippines decides to bring the Wildtrak X into the country as well. If it does, expect it to join the current line-up which is composed of a dizzying array of variants: XLS, XLT, Sport, Wildtrak, and likely the Stormtrak and Raptor.