Ford ute's useful format

5:30 AM Sunday Dec 9, 2012

What is it?

Ford's $57,090 XLT super cab auto Ranger ute, with a 147kW/470Nm 3.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, six-speed auto and four-wheel-drive with low range accessed via an easy dial. Over 1000km of mixed running we averaged 9.3 litres/100km - 0.1 above claim.

We like

Great road manners and off-road ability.

The super-useful super cab format supplies rear seats for short-run passengers or secure luggage space while liberating the tray for the important stuff.

We loathe

The height of the load bed makes it tough to load, whether you're tossing chainsaws over the side or pushing a bike up a ramp.

- Herald on Sunday