Under the bonnet is one of the biggest reasons to choose the Wildtrak V6 over other Rangers. Its 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 produces 184kW and 600Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
More important than the numbers is how that performance is delivered. The V6 provides strong low-down torque and a more effortless character when accelerating, overtaking or carrying a load. It also gains a full-time four-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4A, 4H and 4L modes. The 4A setting is particularly useful for everyday driving, automatically distributing drive between the axles when required without the driver having to constantly switch modes.
For such a large dual-cab, the Wildtrak remains composed and easy to drive, although the brake pedal can feel softer than some buyers may expect.
Verdict: Strong torque, a smooth V6 and versatile full-time 4WD make this one of the standout Ranger drivetrains.
The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 is rated to tow 3,500kg braked, putting it firmly among the serious towing options in the dual-cab segment. The 600Nm V6 is particularly well suited to pulling caravans, boats and larger trailers without feeling overly strained.
Payload is quoted at approximately 951kg, while gross combined mass is 6,400kg. Buyers planning to tow at or near the maximum 3,500kg limit should pay close attention to their complete vehicle, passenger, accessory and tow-ball weights, as available payload reduces once a heavy trailer is attached.
The dual-cab layout also makes the Ranger genuinely useful away from towing duties, with room for five passengers and a practical tub for work, camping equipment or weekend gear.
Verdict: Excellent towing credentials and plenty of everyday versatility, but heavy-towing buyers need to calculate their payload carefully.
Official combined fuel consumption is 8.4L/100km, with an 80-litre fuel tank providing useful theoretical touring range.
Real-world consumption can be noticeably higher, particularly once the Ranger is loaded, driven around town or towing a heavy trailer. That is not particularly surprising from a large V6 diesel dual-cab with 600Nm available, but it is something used buyers should factor into ownership costs.
Buyers who rarely tow or need the V6's additional performance may find the smaller Ranger engines more economical to live with.
Verdict: Acceptable efficiency considering the performance, but the V6's extra capability comes with extra fuel use.
One of the strongest aspects of the next-generation Ranger is just how far its cabin moved beyond the traditional work-ute formula.
The Wildtrak features a large 12-inch portrait SYNC 4A touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8-inch digital instrument display, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and ambient interior lighting.
The vertical touchscreen dominates the dashboard and gives the Ranger a more contemporary feel than many older dual-cab alternatives. There is also enough storage and passenger space to make the Wildtrak work comfortably as a family vehicle rather than simply a workhorse.
Equipment can vary between individual used vehicles. In particular, the Bang & Olufsen premium sound system was tied to the optional Premium Pack rather than being standard, so it is worth checking exactly what is fitted to any Ranger you are considering.
Verdict: Comfortable, practical and impressively modern for a ute, with technology that still holds up well several years after launch.
At 5,370mm long and 1,918mm wide, the Wildtrak is a substantial vehicle, and Ford has made good use of those proportions.
The squared-off front end, broad stance and Wildtrak-specific detailing give it plenty of presence without pushing as far into performance styling as the Ranger Raptor. Eighteen-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres reinforce its touring credentials, while the full-size matching spare is a useful addition for buyers heading beyond sealed roads.
The Wildtrak also adds practical features such as roof rails and a power roller shutter over the tub, while matrix LED headlights give the front end a distinctive appearance at night.
Verdict: Rugged without being overdone, with styling and practical features that suit the Wildtrak's position as a premium touring ute.
The Ranger achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating under 2022 testing protocols, and the Wildtrak carries an extensive collection of active driver-assistance technology.
Key features include:
That combination is particularly valuable for buyers considering the Wildtrak as both a family vehicle and a touring ute.
Verdict: An extensive safety package remains one of the Wildtrak's biggest strengths as a used family-friendly dual-cab.
Depreciation has made the 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 considerably more accessible than it was when new. Good used examples generally sit below their original new-car pricing, although the V6 Wildtrak continues to command a premium thanks to strong demand for its drivetrain and specification.
That means it may not be the cheapest used Ranger, but buyers are getting considerably more than a badge upgrade. The 600Nm V6, full-time four-wheel-drive system, towing ability, safety equipment and premium cabin all contribute tangible benefits.
Some 2023 examples may also retain a portion of Ford's original five-year, unlimited-kilometre new-car warranty depending on their original delivery date.
Verdict: Not the bargain option in the Ranger range, but its combination of capability and specification helps justify the used-market premium.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6?
The 2023 Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 remains an excellent all-rounder for buyers who need one vehicle to cover a lot of different jobs.
Its 184kW/600Nm V6, 3,500kg braked towing capacity and full-time 4WD make it particularly appealing for caravanning, boating and long-distance touring. At the same time, its comfortable cabin, strong technology package and comprehensive safety equipment mean it can comfortably handle everyday family duties.
There are compromises. Fuel consumption can climb quickly under load, buyers towing at maximum capacity need to watch payload carefully, and optional equipment varies between individual examples. For predominantly urban driving, a four-cylinder Ranger may also make more financial sense.
But if you are buying used and want one of the most complete versions of Australia's hugely popular dual-cab, the Wildtrak V6 remains difficult to overlook.
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