While we wait patiently for the next generation Ford Ranger here in the US, Australia just learned Ford is expanding its domestic Ranger lineup and bridging the gap to the Ranger Raptor with the off-road-focused Wildtrak X trim. The Wildtrak X isn't just based around factory-fitted off-road accouterments, though. It builds on the regular Wildtrak with a wider track and increased ground clearance and features Ford's Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist systems.

For practicality, it uses Ford's Flexible Rack System to make carrying different shapes and sized items on the roof. The result looks like an excellent off-road adventure lifestyle truck.

The Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers are one of the keys to the Wildtrak's mission statement of allowing adventurers to get themselves and their gear deep into the wilderness without sacrificing its road manners. The position-sensitive dampers feature a monotube design and nitrogen-charged external reservoir and are tuned with touring and payload in mind.

The other key is a full-time 4WD system instead of the part-time "shift on the fly" 4x4 system, which is now available to Australians with their Bi-Turbo Diesel 2.0-liter engine option. Ford is keen to point out the Wildtrak X retains the standard Wildtrak's 7,716-pound towing capacity.

The Wildtrak X's 17-inch alloy wheels are wrapped with General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tires as standard and add to the 30mm wider track and additional 26mm of ground clearance over the Wildtrak. The Wildtrak X also takes advantage of Matrix LED headlamps with auxiliary LEDs integrated into the unique front grille.

Inside, the Wildtrak X shows off new leather-accented seats with Miko suede, and the Wildtrak X logo is embroidered into the seat backs, upper glovebox, and all-weather front and rear floor mats. The stitching is in Cyber Orange, matching the available paint color.

In the Down Under, it costs an equivalent of around $50,000 and will be available later in the year. Whether we'll get an upgrade on the Wildtrak trim here in the US is anybody's guess right now. However, we are getting the Ranger Raptor.