2024 Ford Ranger- First Drive

2024 Ford Ranger
A refined new generation with more power and capability.

The Ranger has been a household name in the Ford truck lineup that dates to 1958 with the Edsel Ranger and eventually as a trim package on F-Series trucks. In 1983 it became its own line of compact trucks. The compact truck went on hiatus from 2012-2018 and then returned as mid-size truck to compete with others like Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma. 2024 marks the second generation of the mid-size Ranger with fresh styling, more towing technology, convenient storage features, plus an available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 for added power.

The Ranger is available in four trims known as XL, XLT, Lariat, and Raptor. All trims, except the Raptor, are available with rear wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The Raptor is exclusively an off-road ready 4x4. There are three different powertrains available starting with the base engine which is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder that delivers 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Also available is the new twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter six-cylinder with 315 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. And pushing out the most power is the Raptor exclusive twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder with 405 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque.

Prices for the Ranger start at $32,820 for a 4x2 XL or $36,465 for a 4x4 XL. Top end Raptor models start at $55,720. Competition includes other mid-size trucks like the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma. I spent a week in the Ranger Lariat that checked in at $52,300 with several options.

When the Ranger first returned in 2019, it felt like it was a generation behind. This new 2024 truck fixes most of the criticisms that Ford faced when the Ranger was pitted against top competitors. With a variety of engine choices, including the new high-powered, Ranger Raptor, there are far more options to find one that suits your lifestyle. The interior gets a ‘most-improved’ award with impressive materials and much better technology. Whether you’re looking for a work truck, play truck, or an all-round commuter truck, the Range is a viable option worth taking for a drive.

First Impression Summary

Test Vehicle: 2024 Ford Ranger Supercrew 4x4 Lariat
Exterior Color: Velocity Blue Metallic
Interior Color: Sandstone Leather
Notable Options: A/T Tires, Locking Differential, Chrome Appearance Package, 18” Chrome Wheels, ProTrailer Backup Assist, Running Boards, Integrated box sidestep, Keyless Keypad, Bedlines Toughbed Spray
MSRP as tested (including delivery & processing fees): $52,300

Pros: Powertrain options, updated interior, capability (towing/payload)
Cons: Unresponsive steering, high prices