FORD RANGER
Ford developed the Ford Ranger, a well-known midsize pickup truck, in 1983. Renowned for its outstanding adaptability, it blends tough performance with innovative features, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts all over the world. With its dual-purpose design for off-road excursions and urban use, the Ranger is ideal for transporting gear or taking a family road trip with confidence. The Ranger is designed to handle it all, from navigating rough routes for camping trips to towing a boat for a weekend getaway. The latest Ranger models are manufactured at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan, and boast a 17% increase in fuel efficiency. It comes in six different colors: Arctic White, Blue Lightning, Sedona Orange, Meteor Grey, Luxe Yellow, and Absolute Black.
FORD RANGER GENERATIONS
The Ford Ranger has evolved over decades, demonstrating its transformation from a modest workhorse to a modern midsize truck. Each generation includes advancements in design, performance, and technology that meet the evolving needs of drivers worldwide.
First Generation (1983-1992)
The first-generation Ford Ranger debuted in 1983 as Ford’s first compact pickup truck, replacing the Ford Courier, in response to the late 1970s fuel-efficiency crisis. It was designed to be versatile, with two body styles: standard cab and SuperCab, as well as two wheelbase options—108 inches with a six-foot bed and 114 inches with a seven-foot bed. Buyers could select from a variety of engine options, including a 2.0L four-cylinder, a 2.3L four-cylinder, a 2.8L V6, and even diesel engines. Safety was a top focus, and the Ranger was the first pickup to include rear anti-lock brakes in 1989. By the end of this generation, the Ranger had established a reputation for dependability and practicality.
Second Generation (1993-1997)
The second-generation Ranger featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic design and a strong emphasis on safety, including a driver-side airbag in 1995 and a passenger-side airbag in 1996. Engine options included a 2.3L four-cylinder, a 3.0L V6, and a 4.0L V6, all of which offered a balance of performance and efficiency. This model also increased interior comfort by upgrading the seats, armrests, and optional options such as a 60/40 split bench seat. To satisfy the different needs of customers, exterior modifications included a reworked grille for 4×4 versions, as well as extended and crew cab choices.
Third Generation (1998-2011)
The third-generation Ranger had a longer wheelbase, a larger cab, and an increased towing capacity of more than 6,000 pounds. In 2001, the base engine was improved to a 2.3L Duratec inline-four-cylinder, and the 4.0L V6 was power-boosted to 207 horsepower. ABS was added to 2WD vehicles, as were LATCH child seat systems and airbags with sensing systems. Interior upgrades, such as leather upholstery and available CD players, combined with external modifications like a sharper grille and headlamps, kept the Ranger competitive. This generation cemented its status as a flexible, capable truck for both work and fun.
Fourth Generation (2011-2019)
The fourth-generation Ranger was built for global markets, with significant enhancements to fuel efficiency, safety, and design. Engine options included a 2.2L four-cylinder diesel and a 3.2L five-cylinder diesel, meeting the growing need for powerful yet efficient trucks. The interior included modern improvements such as touchscreen infotainment and voice-activated controls, while the exterior featured a strong grille and dynamic headlamps. The Ranger Raptor, which debuted in this generation, became a performance icon by combining off-road capability with everyday practicality.
Fifth Generation (2019-Present)
The Ranger triumphantly returned to North America in 2019 as a midsize truck. This generation’s EcoBoost engine options include a 2.3L turbo four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and a twin-turbo 2.7L V6 with 315 horsepower in higher models. Safety became a priority, with technologies such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The interior included high-quality materials, a 10.1-inch touchscreen screen (which can be upgraded to 12.4 inches), and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The Ford Ranger Raptor, which debuted in 2024, further connected the Ranger with Ford’s performance lineup by combining rough capability with luxury features.
FORD RANGER SERIES
The Ford Ranger is available in a variety of trims to suit varied preferences:
Ford Ranger XL
Ford Ranger XLT
Ford Ranger Tremor
FORD RANGER SAFETY
The Ford Ranger excels in safety, receiving a five-star certification from Euro NCAP in 2022. The Ranger got 84% for adult occupant protection, 90% for child occupant safety, and 74% for vulnerable road users. These results reflect its strong construction and commitment to safety.
The Ford Ranger comes with advanced safety features such as cruise control, blind spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, numerous airbags, and seatbelt reminders.
It also includes Ford’s ESP+ stability control system, collision prevention, speed sign recognition, and lane-keeping assist. Ford’s Technology Packs offer additional choices such as a 360-degree camera and lane-change warning.
FORD RANGER FEATURES
Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds. The payload capacity ranges between 1,711 pounds (4WD models) and 1,805 pounds (RWD versions).
Interior Design: The sleek cabin features a digital gauge display, textured dashboard trim, and honeycomb-patterned air vents. The majority of controls are digital and easily incorporated into the infotainment system
SYNC®4A infotainment system: This cloud-connected system supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM, improving in-car communication and entertainment.
Interior storage options include a hidden upper glove box, roomy door pockets, and under-seat storage in the back.
Wireless Charging and USB ports: The Ford Ranger contains a wireless charging pad as well as multiple USB charging ports.
Lighting: The C-Clamp LED headlamps improve visibility and provide a modern touch to the truck’s look.
FORD RANGER MAINTENANCE
For guaranteed maximum performance and longevity for your Ford Ranger, routine maintenance is required every six months
The Ford Ranger is covered by a competitive warranty that includes:
- A limited warranty for three years or 36,000 miles.
- A powertrain warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
FORD RANGER PRICING
The latest Ford Ranger is reasonably priced, with models ranging from $34,315 for the base trim level to $45,275 for higher-end options.
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