A Brief History of Ford

Ford’s founder, Henry Ford, is well known for starting the world’s first production line of the Model T in 1907. However, he built his first ever experimental car at his home in Detroit in 1896 – the Quadricycle. Throughout the years, the Ford Model T developed several variants, sprouting into new segments such as pick-up trucks and vans, which were mostly used during World War I. Ford was also one of the first companies to open a production plant outside its country of origin, with a new assembly plant in Manchester, England. Although Ford is best known for pioneering in assembling, they cemented their success with motor racing. Ferrari dominated endurance racing in the ’60s until Ford introduced the iconic GT 40, which went on to win several consecutive championships. Ford’s iconic Mustang can also take credit for adding to the brand’s reputation. Many car enthusiasts still consider the Mustang to be one of the coolest cars on the market since its introduction in 1964.

Ford Models

The Cherry leads sales front with thousands sold each month in South Africa, and it’s easy to see why. It offers all the practicality, durability, and capability you’d expect from a bakkie while giving owners a comfortable ride and a cabin filled with many necessary comforts. The entry-level Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCi Single Cab Base 5MT 4x2 LR makes for an excellent workhorse as it offers 88kW @ 3 700 r/min and 285Nm of torque @ 1 500 – 2 300 r/min. The Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCi Single Cab Base 5MT 4x2 LR retails from R268 900.

Buying a Ford

Ford South Africa has 14 models in their range, each considered to be a top contender in its segment. The company also regularly updates its range to ensure their cars remain at the forefront of style, technology, efficiency, and performance. You might think the Ford Fiesta and Figo hatchbacks, or the EcoSport SUV would be the best-selling vehicles in their range, with the more premium Focus model following closely behind, yet it’s their Ranger bakkie that leads sales. The Ford Ranger is often the top-selling double cab vehicle in South Africa, with thousands sold and exported each month.

Ford Models Available

The local Ford range delivers a mix of everyday practicality, rugged workhorse capability, and lifestyle versatility. Leading the sales charts, the Ford Ranger remains a firm favourite in South Africa — offering the durability, towing power, and off-road confidence you’d expect from a bakkie, paired with a comfortable, well-appointed cabin.

Ford Fiesta: A nimble hatchback with efficient engines and smart connectivity for city driving.
Ford Figo: A budget-friendly, reliable compact ideal for first-time buyers and daily commutes.
Ford Ranger: South Africa’s best-selling bakkie, available in multiple trims from the capable 2.2 TDCi Single Cab Base 5MT 4x2 LR (88 kW, 285 Nm) to high-performance Wildtrak and Raptor variants.
Ford Everest: A spacious, go-anywhere SUV built for family adventures, with advanced safety and off-road tech.
Ford EcoSport: A compact crossover combining urban agility with SUV-style practicality.

The entry-level Ford Ranger 2.2 TDCi Single Cab Base 5MT 4x2 LR retails from R268 900, making it a strong value proposition for business owners and fleet buyers. Ford’s extensive nationwide dealer network ensures easy access to sales, servicing, and parts — whether you’re in the city or out in the veld.

Travelling with Your Ford

Launched with a focus on long-term value, Ford’s ownership benefits include a four-year/120,000 km warranty, a five-year corrosion warranty, and three-year/unlimited km roadside assistance. Every new Ford also comes standard with a four-year/60,000 km service plan, with scheduled maintenance every 15,000 km to keep your vehicle running at its best. When it comes to insurance, hippo.co.za helps Ford drivers find the right cover at the right price. Thanks to Ford’s strong safety credentials — with features like stability control, multiple airbags, ABS, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and advanced driver-assist systems — many models qualify for competitive premiums. So, whether you’re behind the wheel of a rugged Ranger, the family-friendly Everest, or the sporty EcoSport, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re protected on every journey.