Ford's Ranger 4WD midsize pickup is all new for 2024 with two engine choices and added technology

Ford’s Ranger midsize pickup offers added capabilities, technologies and two engine choices for 2024. It’s a good choice for those who don’t need a full-size pickup. 

Ranger is offered 2WD, 4WD and in XL, XLT, Lariat and Raptor models. Forthcoming is a Super Duty version that should give the F-150 a run for its brotherly money. We tested the XLT, 4WD SuperCrew version. 

Ranger’s exterior looks almost identical to an F-150. Its interior is likened to that in a midsize SUV or sedan. It’s exceptionally designed and the eye-grabber is the 12-inch vertical touchscreen that offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto connectivity, navigation, rearview camera, Wi-Fi even a sketch feature that uses a fingertip to jot down a message or reminder. 

Most of these are features commonly found on SUVs/sedans, with one exception. Step-in is a tall 23 inches. But if the height is a problem, aftermarket steps can be installed. 

Aside from that first impression, Ranger still uses a traditional ignition key instead of a fob. But doors can still be locked/unlocked with the keyless Keypad on the outside of the drivers’ door. It’s a nicety that Ford maintains on several of their vehicles. I had it on my former 1999 Explorer Sport SUV and it was handy especially if you forget the key as the doors can be unlocked using the 4-digit keypad. Merely punch in the code that came with the truck or change it to your desired code. 

Although the front seats are covered in long-wearing cloth, they were heated, which isn’t true for many cars with cloth interiors. So kudu’s to Ford for that thoughtful feature. And aside from the huge touchscreen, the gauge cluster is digital with a driver information display that pops up when notifications are in store. 

As for HVAC functions, Ranger had large rotary switches that are familiar to all. A wireless phone charger sits inside the vertical stack and is flanked by a hefty gear selector for the 10-speed automatic transmission. 

Also on the console is the rotary drive mode switch for 2H, 4H, 4L mode plus trailer towing mode. To its left and more significant, is the rear locking differential switch, a good feature to have in deep snow, mucky mud or sand in addition to its 9.3-inch ground clearance. 

Ranger’s comfy back seat flips up against the bulkhead exposing bins for some small item storage plus others hold the jack and jack tools. Another advantage to this open space is that a few bulky items can be stowed for foul weather protection and security. And the rear window power slides open/close. 

The 5x5 foot cargo bed had a 34-inch lift-over. The test truck also came with a sprayed-in bedliner. Within the bed itself are a pair of AC outlets for remote electrical equipment operation in addition to several tie-downs. 

Ride wise it’s taut with its body-on-frame structure. But that, a wider track and longer wheelbase, offers excellent stability and precise handling with a curb-curb turn radius of 42.5 feet. On highways, the ride is comfy and secure on Wrangler 8-inch wide, 20-inch tall tires. Some slight hum from the tires on interstates can be heard. 

As said, Ranger is offered with a choice of two engines. A 2.7-liter V6 is optional that generates 315-hp and a whopping 400 ft/lbs of torque, and a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder that was in our test truck, produces 270-hp and 310 lb/ft of torque for EPA with a 10-speed automatic transmission garners EPA mileage estimates of 21 city, 25-highway mpg. So powered, Ranger carries a max tow rating of 7,500 pounds and a GVWR of 6,170. All impressive numbers. 

Our test Ranger carried a base price of $39,490. To that was added Equipment Group 301A ($420), Advanced Tow Package plus Tech Pkg ($2,305), a 3.73 ratio Locking Rear Differential ($420), Securecode Keyless KeyPad ($95), Toughbed sprayed-in bedliner ($495) and delivery took the bottom line to $45,709. At that price is comes nicely equipped with safety/convenience features such as rear cross traffic alert, lane keep assist, pre-collision assist, remote start, remote tailgate lock, tire pressure monitor and more. 
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While Ford’s always perennial top-selling F-150 half ton full-size pickup will continue to beat the competition, the 2024 Ranger can’t be far behind in the midsize pickup market.