Did Mazda make Ford Rangers?
When it comes to the history of automotive manufacturing, collaborations between companies are not uncommon. One such partnership that often sparks curiosity is the relationship between Mazda and Ford, particularly regarding the production of the Ford Ranger. In this article, we’ll explore the connection between these two automakers and whether Mazda played a role in making Ford Rangers.
The Mazda and Ford Partnership
During the late 20th century, Mazda and Ford had a close partnership, with Ford owning a significant stake in Mazda. This collaboration led to the sharing of platforms, designs, and manufacturing facilities. One of the most notable outcomes of this partnership was the development of compact pickup trucks.
Mazda's Role in Ford Ranger Production
Yes, Mazda did play a role in the production of Ford Rangers, but the extent of their involvement varied depending on the region and time period. Here’s a breakdown:
- North America: In the 1980s and 1990s, Ford and Mazda collaborated on compact pickup trucks. While the Ford Ranger was primarily designed and manufactured by Ford in North America, it shared many components and design elements with the Mazda B-Series trucks. These trucks were essentially siblings, built on similar platforms but branded differently for their respective markets.
- International Markets: In some regions outside North America, Mazda took a more active role in producing Ford Rangers. For example, in markets like Southeast Asia, Mazda manufactured versions of the Ford Ranger alongside their own B-Series trucks. These vehicles often shared engines, chassis, and other key components.
End of the Collaboration
By the early 2000s, the partnership between Mazda and Ford began to wind down as both companies pursued independent strategies. Ford continued to develop the Ranger independently, while Mazda focused on its own line of vehicles. Today, the Ford Ranger is a wholly Ford-designed and manufactured vehicle, with no direct involvement from Mazda.
Conclusion
In summary, Mazda did contribute to the production of Ford Rangers during the height of their partnership with Ford. This collaboration resulted in shared platforms and manufacturing efforts, particularly in international markets. However, as the partnership dissolved, Ford took full control of the Ranger’s development, making it a distinct Ford product in recent years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Mazda B3000 a V6?
2006 Mazda B3000 Pickup-V6-5 Spd. DS 2WD Specifications.
What Ford vehicles are made by Mazda?
So, in 1974, Mazda allowed a 24.5% stake in their business to be purchased by Ford. This enabled Ford to bolster the Japanese brand, help them develop cars cheaper, and reduce costs across the board. This partnership resulted in models such as the Ford Festiva, Ford Telstar, and Ford Escape.
Who manufactures the Ford Ranger?
Ford Motor Company
The Ford Ranger (T6) is a range of mid-size pickup trucks manufactured and sold by Ford Motor Company since 2011.
Did Mazda build Ford Ranger?
From 1998 to 2011, the Ranger nameplate was used for models developed by Mazda for sale outside the North American market. In 2011, Ford introduced the first Ranger based on the T6 platform. Considered a mid-size pickup truck, the model was developed in-house by Ford Australia.
What is the Mazda equivalent to the Ford Ranger?
More than two years on from launch, the Ford Ranger is still the dual-cab king in Australia. A drive in the XLT reminded us why. There's a mid-life update looming, but the Mazda BT-50 is a great-value ute right now, especially in premium SP trim.
Are Ford Rangers and Mazda B3000 the same?
The Mazda B-Series trucks were simply the Ford Ranger with different badges.
Do Mazda cars use Ford engines?
Mazda has created three families of in-house V6 engines. As of 2000, they build and use the Ford Duratec V6 design. AJ/MZI – 2.5 L and 3.0 L V6 - The Mazda version of the Ford Duratec DOHC V6. The 3.5 L MZI is the Ford Cyclone engine.
Is Ford Ranger made in Japan?
The current fourth-generation Ranger is manufactured by Ford at Wayne Stamping & Assembly (Wayne, Michigan).
Is the Ford Ranger a Mazda?
Mazda-based (1998–2011)
In 1998, Ford introduced the Ranger name on Mazda-sourced pickup trucks, however the Courier name continued through 2006 in Australia and New Zealand.
Does Ford own Mazda anymore?
Mazda is owned by the Mazda Motor Corporation, based near Hiroshima, Japan. Back in 1979, the Ford Motor Company bought shares in the company and owned over 33 percent of the company by 1995. By 2015, the shares were sold and the Ford Motor Company no longer owned part of Mazda.
