After returning with a somewhat half-baked model in 2019, Ford has a completely new Ranger for the 2024 model year. The new models is wider, taller and longer than the previous Ranger but it ditches the extended cab bodystyle and comes only as a crew cab with a short box. The 2024 model also brings new engine options, an off-road Raptor trim and more safety and technology features. Competitors include the Chevrolet Canyon, GMC Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, Jeep Gladiator, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma.
For 2024 Ranger trim levels include the XL, XLT, Lariat and Raptor. Initially all but the Raptor will get a turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine that carries over from the previous year. It makes 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque and pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Raptor models get a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that makes 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It also pairs with the 10-speed automatic. Later in the year Ford will begin offering a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 on XL, XLT and Lariat trim. All Rangers are offered with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive except for the Raptor, which comes with 4WD standard. Towing capacity is 7,500 pounds.
Prices range from $34,000 to $57,000 -- though the higher price is for the specialty Raptor trim. Lariat models top out at a more respectable $45,000. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning with automatic braking and lane-departure warning. Stepping up to XLT trim brings blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist. Standard across the board are LED headlights, 10-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless support for Android Auto and Apple Car Play and a digital instrument cluster.
The base 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine provides stout acceleration and ample passing punch. Unloaded, the Ranger will scoot from 0 to 60 MPH in a tick or two under 7 seconds. That makes Ranger quite quick for the class and the larger optional V6 should put even more distance between Ranger and it's competitors.
Ranger Raptor gets a massive power boost thanks to it’s turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. With more than 400 horsepower on tap, Ranger Raptor scoots off the lime with authority and has impressive passing punch. Unlike some other high-performance engines, the turbo six is smooth and refined around town, emitting hardly a snarl. But step on the “go pedal” and Ranger Raptor lurches forward with authority.
The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly once warmed. However, like some other Ford products with this transmission, the first few shifts on cold mornings are slurred and delayed, making drivers think something might be wrong.
With an available low range gearset and tall build, Ranger is quite off-road capable. The 4WD system offers a full-time and part-time mode. Ranger Raptor, with Fox shocks, reinforced suspension components, skid plates and a host of terrain modes, takes off-road capabilities to the max and proves to be among the most capable pickups you can buy from the factory.
Believe it or not, the Ranger is quite efficient at well. The 4WD model with the 4-cylinder engine nets an EPA rating of 20 MPG city and 24 MPG highway -- among the best in the class. Obviously, the optional V6 is a few MPG behind. In routine suburban commuting expect average close to 22 MPG overall, perhaps 24 MPG if you throw in a lot of highway cruising. Like all vehicles in the class, regular-grade fuel is okay in Ranger (Raptor excluded).
Dynamically, Ranger is one of the better riding and handling compact pickups. Somehow Ford engineers were able to dial in enough suspension compliance despite meeting the payload demands of a pickup truck and utilizing rear leaf springs (though Raptor gets coil springs). The steering a just-right weight and provides good feedback and the brakes seem to have ample stopping power and little rear lockup in panic stops.
On the comfort side, Ranger rides best with a few hundred pounds in the bed but is comfortable enough around town no matter what. The suspension does a good job of limiting undue body motions and softening large potholes. There a little rebound bounce when going over expansion joints however.
One of the few weak points of the 2024 Ranger is interior noise. The base engine emits an unrefined growl under acceleration and there's a bit too much wind and road noise at highway speeds.
On the outside the 2024 Ranger looks similar to the model it replaces. However, on the inside for made significant improvement to both design and materials. Though still function over form, the new design is modern and sports materials appropriate to trim level and price. The biggest change is the large, vertical touchscreen interface for the infotainment system
The front seats are nicely padded and supportive on long drives. If you opt for a Raptor, you'll get even more comfortable seats with additional bolstering to keep you in place when off-road. Head and leg room are great up front. In back, rear leg room finally grows to adult-size levels, but the rear seatbacks are still bolt upright. Step-in can be considerable on 4WD-ready models but isn't too bad thanks to grab handles. Outward visibility is excellent thanks to a low beltline and airy greenhouse.
On the tech side, Ranger offers excellent connectivity features and a large touchscreen interface for the infotainment system. Thankfully, the commonly used HVAC controls are still conventional buttons and knobs. Still audio controls are absorbed into the touchscreen and that's a bit confounding at first. It's also a shame that some key safety features are optional instead of standard.
When it comes to being a truck, Ranger proves its worth with a 7,500 pound towing rating and a payload capacity north of 1,800 pounds. Though it is only offered in short-bed form, Ford has widened the width to a true 4 feet between the wheel wheels. There is also a new step integrated into the frame. Another nice feature is the available Pro Trailer Backup Assist that allows the driver to reverse the Ranger and trailer with a dial in the center console rather than using the steering wheel and counter steering. Some models also offer 400 watts of power AC power in the bed.
Bottom Line -- Considering capability, engine options, features and comfort, Ranger is easily the best overall compact pickup. While it might seem a little bland on the outside, one drive will quickly win over buyers. Ford made all the right moves with this comprehensive makeover for 2024 and early sales numbers show buyers agree.
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