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Overview
The resurrected Ranger returns to the states to claim its share of the popular mid-size-pickup market. The beloved Ford truck has been missing in action since 2011, but it rises from the ashes with modern-day styling inside and out.
Engines, Ride, and Handling
Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that makes 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A ten-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive is standard and offers 8.4 inches of ground clearance; four-wheel-drive versions have 8.9 inches. Both setups offer electronically locking rear differentials, while the front diff remains open in 4x4s. A Terrain Management system has settings for grass, gravel, and snow; another for mud and ruts; and a sand setting. The system adjusts ABS, stability, and traction-control settings as well as throttle and transmission mapping. With the optional tow package, the Ranger is rated to tow up to 7500 pounds or haul 1860 pounds in its bed. For some buyers, the Ranger's capabilities might make them think twice about the larger F-150.
Interior and Technology
The Ranger has the latest driver-assistance features including lane-departure warning and assist, blind-spot monitors with trailer coverage, and automated emergency braking. There are XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels, rear- and four-wheel drive, extended-cab and full-crew body styles (SuperCab and SuperCrew, in Ford's lexicon). The SuperCrew is the roomiest Ranger, so it's the one that families with kids should consider. No matter which model you choose, the cabin features straight-forward controls, but lower-trim versions appear cheap and uninspired. A touchscreen infotainment system running Ford's latest Sync 3 software is optional; base models get a much more rudimentary standard radio display with a dinky screen and zero frills.
