After an absence from the compact pickup market for several model years, Ford came back in 2019 with a new Ranger and it’s been a very popular product. Today’s compact pickups are generally a lot larger than they used to be and this applies to the Ranger. It’s true that people buy compacts because they don't need the size and costs associated with fullsize models but even so, they seem to need something bigger that compact pickups of old. It’s worth noting, incidentally, that Ford describes the Ranger as “midsize,” rather than compact.
The Ranger fulfils market demands in every possible way and for the all-new 2024, Ford is taking the product onwards and upwards with numerous upgrades and enhancements plus a new engine, not available with this vehicle before. It’s a no-nonsense, no gimmicks truck and the styling is best described as “tastefully practical.” It has a beefy, purposeful appearance that will appeal to pickup fans. Pickups like this are widely used for recreational purposes and the aftermarket offers numerous accessories to transform this truck into the ultimate overlander. Especially popular are sleeper pod conversions that greatly enhance the possibilities for camping and recreational use.
In Canada, the Ranger is available in XL, XLT or Lariat trims with standard four-wheel drive and SuperCrew cab. Perhaps the most exciting news is that Canada will get the Raptor version, Raptor being the name Ford applies to trucks with exceptionally high levels of performance. As far as power goes, the standard engine remains the 2.7-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder with 270-horsepower. Especially welcome for 2024 is the option of a 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6 with 315-horsepower. The Raptor uses a 3.0-litre EcoBoost V-6 twin-turbo developing a hefty 405-horsepower. All models use a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Other new features worth a mention include a 360-degree camera to make trailering or off-roading easier; an available integrated box side step; fold-down rear seats to aid the transport of large loads and a wider space between the wheel wells so 4x8 sheets of material can me carried. In the roomy cab there’s lots of technology, mostly associated with connectivity. The standard instrument panel is digital and there’s a 12-inch centre-located touch screen for the usual infotainment applications.
The previous Ranger was a very desirable vehicle for buyers who want to combine smaller dimensions with optimal off-road capability and a high level of creature comforts. The enhanced 2024 model will give the product even more appeal. Late summer delivery is promised with the Raptor probably arriving a little later.
SPECS AT A GLANCE...
BODY STYLE: Four-door SuperCrew cab pickup truck
ENGINE: 4-cylinder and V-6 options available
TRANSMISSION: 10-speed automatic
TOWING CAPACITY: Up to 7,500-lb with package
FUEL ECONOMY: 10.9-litres combined, estimated (Four-cylinder model)
PRICE: $41,255 base MSRP