Overview
Ford’s mid-size Ranger pickup truck has been totally redesigned for the 2024 model year, adopting bolder front-end styling inspired by the larger F-150. While Ford sells the Ranger with a turbodiesel V-6 in some overseas markets, the American version is powered by the same turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine as the current truck, and it will be again for 2024. A more powerful twin-turbo gasoline-fired V-6 engine joins the lineup this year, and both engines can be had with rear- or four-wheel drive. We’re most excited about the high-performance Ranger Raptor variant, but we review that model separately. Unlike last year’s Ranger, which was offered in two distinct body styles, the new one is only available as a crew cab with four full-size doors. The cabin has received a big makeover and now features a large, vertically oriented infotainment system similar to the one found that’s an option on higher-end models of the Edge SUV. When the 2024 Ranger goes on sale later this year, it faces fresh competition in the form of the Chevrolet Colorado, the GMC Canyon, and the Toyota Tacoma, all of which are also riding high on recent redesigns.
What’s New for 2024?
This fifth-generation Ranger is all-new, and we expect it to go on sale before the end of 2023 as a 2024 model.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
So far, we only know the base price for the Ranger XL, and without more details about the XLT and Lariat trims’ pricing or their standard and optional features, we can’t make a recommendation on which one is the best value. When more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with details.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Entry-level Rangers come with the same turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder as the outgoing model. That engine makes 270 horsepower, and, in our experience, provides ample power to hustle the mid-size truck around. We don’t expect that to change with the new model. A new twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 comes on higher trims and makes 315 horsepower. Both are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and can be had with rear- or four-wheel drive. For maximum performance and off-road fun, consider the wilder Ranger Raptor, which we review separately.
Towing and Payload Capacity
Regardless of which engine you choose, the Ranger is rated to tow up to 7500 pounds, With the four-wheel drive system on board the truck’s maximum payload rating drops to 1711 pounds from 1805 for rear-wheel drive models.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA hasn’t released fuel economy estimates for the 2024 Ranger yet, but we’re expecting similar numbers to last year’s model, at least when it’s equipped with the entry-level turbo four. When we get a chance, we’ll take the new Ranger on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route and update this story with the results. For more information about the Ranger’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Ranger’s cabin receives a modern look with an available digital gauge display, textured dashboard trim, and honeycomb-patterned air vents. Most of the truck’s various controls and buttons have been digitized and are now part of the infotainment system. Ford has incorporated several interior storage solutions into the new Ranger’s interior design, including a hidden upper glovebox in the dashboard, larger door pocket cubbies, and storage located under the truck’s rear seat. The only body style this time around is the SuperCrew crew cab, which features four full-size doors with seating for five.
Infotainment and Connectivity
A 10.1-inch infotainment display is standard but buyers with a focus on tech can upgrade to an even bigger, vertically oriented 12.4-inch screen. Ford’s latest Sync 4 interface runs on both and provides access to the Ranger’s various controls, including activating a new zone-lighting feature that turns on lights on the outside of the truck to light a job site or provide illumination to finish setting up camp in the dark. All models also get a digital gauge display of either 8.0- or 12.4-inches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and we expect extras such as in-dash navigation, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and SiriusXM satellite radio to also be offered.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Ranger comes standard with basic driver-assistance features but more advanced technology requires jumping to a higher trim or adding an option package. Luckily for those who want these systems, the option packages are relatively affordable. For more information about the Ranger’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Ford provides the Ranger with a competitive warranty. Unlike the Tacoma, the Colorado, and the Canyon, the Ranger isn’t available with complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Source: www.caranddriver.com