The Ford Ranger debuted in 1983 as the carmaker’s small, tough Mazda-built Ford Courier. It was discontinued after 28 years but returned five years ago as Ford’s trucks continued their boom.
A midsize pickup available in numerous trims and configurations, the Ranger fits ideally into the manufacturer’s never-ending quest. It seemingly has a truck for every niche.
The 2024 Ranger debuts a new generation. A turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque is standard in all three regular trims. A more muscular option for the XLT and Lariat versions is new. It featured a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 generating 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The payload is 1,711 pounds; the towing capacity is 7,500 pounds.
A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard throughout the lineup The XL, XLT, and Lariat models come with rear-wheel drive (RWD) with a 4-wheel-drive (4WD) system optional. The Raptor has 4WD as standard. Fuel economy estimates are 20 miles per gallon in city driving 24 mpg on the highway.
What’s a pickup truck without a proper tailgate? It’s indispensable, and the Ranger does it right. It’s damped for slow and safe lowering. It’s a functional workbench with built-in clamp pockets and it has an integrated ruler along the top inside of the tailgate.
The new Ranger is only available in a crew cab with four full-size doors, accompanied by a 5-foot bed. It has an overall capacity of 43.5 cubic feet, a 12-volt outlet and a bottle opener. An integrated bed step, big enough for both feet, is also available.
Interior improvements are plentiful. The vertically oriented 10.1-inch touchscreen is standard and satisfactory. However, the 12-inch unit is worthwhile technology, but with either touchscreen option, there’s tradition — a row of buttons. It’s a simple way to avoid driver distraction.
Standard features of the infotainment system include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, Wi-Fi, navigation, wireless charging, satellite radio, over-the-air updates, two USB ports, and a 360-degree camera system. For pickup truck enthusiasts who are also audiophiles, the Bang & Olufson audio system is an upgrade option.
The standard safety equipment list is also substantial, adaptive cruise control and lane centering to trailer backup assist back up lane assist.
There’s nearly a $23,000 MSRP difference from the entry level XL ($32,565) and the Raptor ($55,365) The XLT ($36,005) and Lariat ($43,525) complete the lineup.
Pickup trucks long ago dropped their reputation as utilitarian vehicles only. Modern choices are daily drivers not only for the construction and agricultural industries, but they’re a four-door choice for family matters. Seating is comfortable, entry and exit is easy, and all-around vision is superior.
But plenty of work truck tradition remains. Completing the easy-lift tailgate is an outside step for access to be bed, six tie-downs, a 400-watt power inverter and outlet and an LED Light. Cup and iPad holders are molded into the tailgate.
Similar to many vehicle segments, midsize pick-up truck competition is strong and welcomed. The top-rated Toyota Tacoma continues its stellar sales. The Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier are all solid choices. The unibody, non-conforming Honda Ridgeline also has a strong following.
The 2024 Ford Ranger improves upon an already strong offering. It’s part the manufacturer perch at top of the truck sales list for nearly 50 years. It’s as close to a sure thing in the automotive industry as offers.
James Raia is a syndicated automotive journalist in Sacramento. Email address: james@jamesraia.com.