2024 Ford Ranger Review: Why It Tops Midsize Pickups
Discover why the 2024 Ford Ranger stands out as the ultimate midsize pickup for performance, comfort, and versatility in 2024.
Why 2024 Ford Ranger Tops Pickups
The 2024 Ford Ranger redefines midsize pickups with its blend of power, comfort, and capability. Redesigned from the ground up, it offers two potent engine options, a spacious cabin, and impressive off-road credentials, positioning it as a leader in its class.
Engine Power and Performance Excellence
At the heart of the 2024 Ranger lies a choice between a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, or a new twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 delivering 315 horsepower. The base engine propels the truck to 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds in four-wheel-drive Lariat trim, while the V6 is even quicker, making highway merging effortless.
Both pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, though some note occasional shifting hesitations under heavy load. Real-world acceleration shines: 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds for the I4, with quarter-mile times around 15.6 seconds at 87 mph. Braking from 60-0 mph averages 131 feet, competitive for the segment.
Ride Comfort and Handling Precision
The Ranger’s revised suspension, featuring aluminum control arms and outboard-mounted rear dampers, delivers a smooth, composed ride uncommon in midsize trucks. It absorbs bumps without excessive jostle, feeling steady on highways and stable in corners.
Steering provides good heft and a strong return-to-center feel, aiding precise control during parking or lane-keeping. Owners and testers praise its quiet cabin and comfortable seats, ideal for daily driving. While truck-like over rough patches, it’s notably refined.
| Model Trim | 0-60 mph | Braking 60-0 | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lariat 4×4 I4 | 6.2 sec | 131 ft | 22 mpg |
| XLT 4×4 V6 | Quicker than I4 | N/A | 20 mpg observed |
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
EPA ratings for the I4 reach 21 city/25 highway (RWD), dropping 1 mpg with 4WD; the V6 scores 19/23. Highway tests yield 20 mpg for the V6 and 18 mpg mixed. MotorWeek observed 23.3 mpg on regular fuel. These figures suit a capable truck with up to 7,500 lbs towing.
Interior Space and Technology Features
The SuperCrew cab offers ample room for five, with durable materials balancing ruggedness and comfort. Mid trims feel functional, while Lariat adds luxury touches. The massive 10- or 12-inch touchscreen dominates, intuitive with physical knobs for climate and audio.
Driver aids excel: surround-view cameras with off-road tire paths, unobtrusive assists. It’s tech-forward without overwhelming.
- Spacious cabin for passengers and gear
- Intuitive infotainment with large screens
- Advanced safety tech like high-res cameras
Off-Road Prowess and Trim Options
The Ranger shines off-road with lockable rear diff in 2WD, climbing steep grades without 4WD. FX4 package adds skid plates, off-road tires, and modes for sand/mud. The Raptor variant boosts this with wider stance and high-speed suspension.
Trims range from XL workhorse to plush Lariat and extreme Raptor, covering daily to adventure needs.
Towing, Payload, and Everyday Versatility
Robust towing up to 7,500 lbs and strong payload make it practical. It’s a reliable daily driver: comfortable, powerful, not flashy but effective.
Pros and Cons Overview
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful engines | Plasticky mid-trims |
| Smooth ride | Occasional trans shifts |
| Great tech/safety | Vague steering at limits |
| Off-road capable | Truck-like over bumps |
Competitor Comparison
Versus Tacoma and Colorado, Ranger offers better power and ride, though less gimmicky than Tacoma or luxe than Colorado. It beat both in tests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engines are available in the 2024 Ford Ranger?
2.3L turbo I4 (270 hp) or 2.7L twin-turbo V6 (315 hp).
How much can the 2024 Ranger tow?
Up to 7,500 lbs.
Is the ride comfortable?
Yes, revised suspension provides smooth, composed handling.
What’s the fuel economy?
I4: 22 mpg combined; V6 around 20 mpg observed.
Best trim for off-road?
Raptor or FX4-equipped models.
Final Thoughts on Ownership
The 2024 Ranger balances work, play, and comfort exceptionally. Pricing starts around $35,000, with Lariat at $48,760 as-tested. It’s a top midsize pickup for versatility.
References
- 2024 Ford Ranger TOTY Review: Can It Take the Strain? — MotorTrend. 2024. https://www.motortrend.com/news/2024-ford-ranger-pros-cons-review
- 2024 Ford Ranger Review, Pricing, and Specs — Car and Driver. 2024. https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/ranger-2024
- 2024 Ford Ranger Prices, Reviews, and Pictures — Edmunds. 2024. https://www.edmunds.com/ford/ranger/2024/
- 2024 Ford Ranger Road Test and Review — Autoweb. 2024. https://www.autoweb.com/2024-ford-ranger-road-test-and-review
- 2024 Ford Ranger — MotorWeek. 2024. https://motorweek.org/road-tests/2024-ford-ranger/
- Tested: 2024 Ford Ranger XLT’s Turbo V-6 Option Is a Sweet Treat — Car and Driver. 2024. https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a62874018/2024-ford-ranger-v6-test/
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