The Ford Ranger on the T6 platform has been around since 2011, when it was first introduced into the global market. 

The T6 platform is also the basis for the first generation of the Ranger Raptor, albeit with modifications to the suspension and chassis to handle tough off-roading duties. 

So, the T6 platform got us thinking, how has it lasted so long, especially now that it's still being used in the next-generation Ford Ranger and Ford Ranger Raptor?

A brief history of the T6 platform

The T6 platform was designed and engineered by Ford Australia and initially debuted at the 2010 Australia International Motor Show in Sydney with the P375/PX Ranger. The Blue Oval created the platform for its midsize trucks and SUVs.

The T6 platform was used not only for the basis of the Ranger but also for the Mazda BT-50 and Ford Everest. It also saw use with the Troller brand for its T4 SUV.

For the Ford Ranger Raptor, the blue oval gave the T6 platform chassis reinforcements plus stiffening to handle more hardcore off-roading. Aside from this, the American automaker also fitted it with a new suspension to improve its off-roading capabilities. 

Ford gave the Ranger Raptor a wider track and a raised ride height compared to the stock Ranger Wildtrack models. 

Refreshes and updates

Aside from the changes made to meet the off-roading requirements of the Ranger Raptor, the T6 platform didn’t change much throughout the P375 lifecycle and facelifts. Only the body of the pickup received minor updates, along with the addition of the 2.0-liter single turbo and 2.0-liter bi-turbo engines. 

However, in 2019, the Ranger received minor mechanical changes, such as a new suspension setup for better comfort and handling. 

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

The T6 platform was so well designed that Ford didn’t think it needed to be replaced. It was improved with the newer Ranger, Bronco, and Everest generations.

According to Ian Foston, chief platform engineer for the Ford T6 platform, it was now wholly re-engineered for the T6.2 update. The Ranger shares the same basic body shapes and dimensions, door, and glass apertures. 

However, most parts are not directly interchangeable between T6 and T6.2.

Enter the T6.2

The T6.2 platform received upgrades to the chassis, such as a wider wheelbase and track, plus an all-new suspension system placed further outboard from the chassis. Ford also widened the  truck bed for this new iteration of the platform. 

These upgrades allow the vehicles that utilize the platform more room for spring/damper articulation and more significant wheel travel, giving them better handle characteristics and an improved ride.

Aside from this, the engine bay area of the platform has been hydroformed to allow the fitment of bigger V6 engines, such as the ones found in the Bronco and the diesel motors for the Platinum versions of the Everest and Ranger. 

The new engine bay area is also why the new Ranger Raptor can use a 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine. 

Ford went with the old saying, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix,” regarding the T6 platform. The American automaker has instead chosen to incrementally upgrade the platform to meet the on and off-road needs of its modern midsize pickups and SUVs. 

Should the T6 platform have been replaced by an all-new one, or was extending its lifespan the right thing to do?

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