Ford Ranger

Overview: Is the Ford Ranger a Good Truck?

The Ford Ranger, a versatile and capable midsize pickup truck, has been a favorite among truck enthusiasts since its introduction in the 1980s. This overview focuses on the more recent generations of the Ranger, including:

• Ford Ranger third generation: 2008–2011
• Ford Ranger fourth generation: 2019–2023
• Ford Ranger fifth generation: 2024–present

It's important to note that Ford did not produce the Ranger for the U.S. market from 2012 to 2018. The all-new fifth generation, launched for the 2024 model year, introduces the performance-oriented Ranger Raptor, proving that truck owners can mix work and play. The newest Ranger will join the Bronco and F-150 in Ford’s lineup.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Ford Ranger trucks for sale.

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Related: Ford Ranger Generations: The Model Through The Years

Key Features

The Ford Ranger offers:

• Compact (third generation) or midsize (fourth and fifth generations) pickup body style
• Multiple cab configurations (varying by generation)
• Four-cylinder and V6 engine options (varying by generation)
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD)
• Ranger Raptor performance variant for the fifth generation

Trims

Ford Ranger trim levels have varied across generations but typically include the base XL, XLT, and Lariat. Recent additions include the off-road-focused Ford Ranger Tremor and FX4 packages and the range-topping Ranger Raptor.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Ford Ranger's interior has evolved to offer a balance of practicality and comfort. The spacious cabin features durable materials, intuitive controls, and available amenities like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system has progressed to include larger touchscreens, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the user-friendly SYNC interface. The Ranger's cargo bed, available in various sizes depending on the cab configuration, provides ample space for hauling gear and equipment. The fifth generation can tow up to 7,500 pounds and has a maximum payload capacity of 1,805 pounds.

Review: Here Are The Ford Ranger Years To Avoid

How It Drives

A newer Ford Ranger delivers a confident and capable driving experience thanks to its well-engineered chassis, responsive steering, and robust engine. The standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides ample power for merging, passing, and towing, while the 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient shifts. Ford added an optional turbo V6 for the fifth generation, making 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

The Ranger's suspension balances comfort and control while offering a composed ride on pavement and impressive off-road capability when equipped with the FX4 or Tremor packages. The Ranger Raptor takes performance to the next level with its specially tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, making 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.

Safety

Safety testing of older Rangers is inconsistent, but the fourth generation received a four-star (out of five) overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The fifth-generation Ford Ranger has yet to undergo safety evaluations.

Reviews

Third- and fourth-generation Ford Ranger reviews via Kelley Blue Book have an average rating of 4.4 out of 5. Owners give these trucks high marks for reliability, quality, and value. There’s insufficient feedback to rate the fifth-generation Ford Ranger.

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Ford Rangers Are Most Reliable?

Ford Ranger FAQs

Why did Ford stop selling the Ford Ranger?

Ford discontinued the Ranger in the U.S. market after the 2011 model year due to declining sales and a shift in focus toward its full-size F-150 pickup. However, the Ranger continued to be sold in other markets, and Ford reintroduced the Ranger to the U.S. for the 2019 model year in response to the growing popularity of midsize trucks.

Is the Ford Ranger luxury?

While the Ford Ranger offers many premium features and amenities, particularly in its higher trim levels, it is not typically classified as a luxury vehicle. The Ranger is a well-equipped and capable midsize pickup truck competing with mainstream rivals like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.

Why is the Ford Ranger so popular?

The Ford Ranger's popularity can be attributed to its capability, versatility, and affordability. The Ranger's towing and payload capacities and available off-road features make it an attractive choice for truck buyers who need a reliable and capable vehicle for work and play. Additionally, the Ranger's midsize dimensions and competitive pricing make it an appealing alternative to full-size trucks for those who prefer a more maneuverable and fuel-efficient package.

How much is a new Ford Ranger?

A 2024 Ford Ranger starts at around $33,000 for a base XL trim and rises to about $55,000 for the Ford Ranger Raptor.

Check out a used Ford Ranger for sale.