The Ford Ranger keeps it all in the family.

As full-size pickup trucks continue to gain in popularity, they also seem to gain in size. But as pickups get bigger, there are some buyers who are wanting something not quite so overwhelming, thus resulting in a growing mid-size truck market. One popular mid-size truck is the Ford Ranger. Reintroduced in 2019 and getting a makeover just last year, the Ford Ranger, although less capable than the F-150, is still a very good competent truck.

Looking at the Ranger, one can see that its styling follows in line with the popular F-150. From its grill, C-shaped headlights, and twin-dome hood, the front end is tough and boxy yet is still modern. Out back, the Ranger has a step on each side between the bed corner and the wheel well, each step able to fit two work boots and let you reach most of the bed without climbing in it.

The mid-size Ranger continues to be offered only as a crew cab with four full-size doors and a five-foot bed, but two engines are available: the standard 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 315-horsepower twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6. Both pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission with either rear- or four-wheel drive. The EPA rates the 2.7-liter V6 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Those numbers should increase slightly going with the base four-cylinder.

Inside, the modern theme continues as the Ranger’s cabin has a digital gauge display, textured dashboard trim, and honeycomb-patterned air vents. And with keeping things in line with the times, most of the truck’s controls and buttons have been integrated into the infotainment system. Storage space is a plus in the Ranger, with a hidden upper glovebox in the dashboard, large door pocket cubbies, and storage located under the truck’s rear seat.

Trim levels are typical Ford. The base XL is simple, yet still nicely done with 17-inch wheels, LED headlights and a digital display. Move up to the mid-level XLT and the Ranger is fitted with a manual sliding rear window, remote engine start and a wireless phone charging pad. If comfort is a priority, the top-of-the line Lariat offers power-adjustable leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and a B&O premium sound system. There is also a Ranger Raptor – but with its special engine and modified body, it deserves a review of its own.

This week, Ford has me in a Hot Pepper Red Ranger Lariat fitted with four-wheel drive. It carries with it an MSRP of $54,375. The starting price for the Ranger is $34,700.

Entering and exiting the Ranger is easily done thanks to a nearly perfect ride height. The front seats are supportive and there is plenty of leg and headroom. The backseat also has plenty of headroom and legroom, and most adults will find the Ranger quite spacious.

Take the Ranger for a spin and you’ll see that Ford got the powertrain right. The Ranger’s boosted V6 is plenty quick. The last Ranger I drove had the base turbo four-cylinder, and I felt that it offered good performance. But with the V6, the Ranger really flies, able to hit 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. Steering, handling and braking all feel more than adequate in the Ranger.

Need to put the Ranger to work? It can tow up to 7,500 pounds and is available with Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist towing technology. And while the bed is short, it still has an impressive 1,805 pounds of maximum payload capacity available.

There are plenty of good reasons to look at the Ford Ranger. Compared to the F-150 and other full-size trucks, the Ranger is less expensive and more fuel efficient. And being smaller in size means it is easier to drive, thus making it easier to live with. If Ford’s Maverick is too small, but the F-150 is simply too much truck, the middle of the ground Ranger makes a smart, sensible decision.
— Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:

2024 Ford Ranger Lariat 4×4

Base Price: $47,195.00
Price as Tested: $54,375.00
Layout: front-engine / four-wheel drive
Engine: 2.7 liter turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost
Transmission: 10 – speed automatic
Horsepower: 315 hp
EPA Fuel Economy: 19 city / 23 highway mpg

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