The 2024 Ford Ranger marks the arrival of its fifth generation since its comeback to the U.S. market in 2019, and after spending a week behind the wheel, it’s clear this mid-size pickup has carved out a unique space for itself. My last encounter with a Ranger was back in 2021, with the Tremor package-equipped Lariat model. That truck was a capable and comfortable daily driver, easy to maneuver and park compared to full-size behemoths. However, the automotive landscape has shifted dramatically since then.
Today’s truck market is overflowing with high-performance, off-road-ready monsters. Think of the Raptor, Toyota’s TRD Pro, Chevy’s ZR2 Bison, or the Ram TRX – trucks engineered for adrenaline-pumping adventures. In this context, the 2024 Ford Ranger presents itself as the pragmatic choice, a truck that prioritizes functionality and everyday usability over flamboyant aggression. It’s the reliable button-down shirt in a world of extravagant designer wear, perfectly respectable and practical, but perhaps not the life of the party.
The 2024 Ford Ranger boasts a redesigned exterior, showcasing a more muscular stance with sharper lines and a bolder front fascia. It’s as if the Ranger decided to hit the gym, resulting in a more rugged and assertive aesthetic. The trim levels for the 2024 model year include the base XL, the mid-range XLT (the model tested), and the top-tier Lariat. The XL is the no-frills workhorse, while the XLT adds comfort and convenience features without venturing into luxury territory. The Lariat trim elevates the Ranger experience with leather upholstery and enhanced tech, offering a more premium feel.
Under the hood of the 2024 Ford Ranger resides a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, delivering a respectable 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive configurations. Is the engine powerful enough? For most daily driving and work tasks, absolutely. It provides ample power for commuting, hauling gear for DIY projects, and even towing trailers up to 7,500 pounds. However, in a market where “adequate” is often overshadowed by “excessive,” the Ranger’s engine reflects its sensible nature rather than aiming for outright performance dominance.
Ford acknowledges the performance trend, and for 2024, they introduced the Ranger Raptor. Comparing the standard 2024 Ford Ranger to the Raptor variant is akin to comparing a golden retriever to a wolf. While sharing DNA, their purposes and personalities diverge significantly. The Ranger Raptor is the untamed beast of the Ranger family.
While the standard Ranger is equipped with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, the Ranger Raptor unleashes a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, generating a substantial 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This power surge transforms the driving experience. The Raptor is not just about raw power; it’s engineered for off-road supremacy. It boasts a high-performance Fox Racing suspension system, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and robust skid plates. The suspension is designed for high-speed off-roading, enabling confident jumps, crashes, and climbs. In contrast, the standard Ranger, with its more conventional suspension setup, is better suited for less extreme off-road adventures.
The visual distinction between the two models is equally striking. The Ranger Raptor exudes aggression with its flared fenders, bold grille, and rugged accents. It broadcasts its off-road prowess, while the standard Ranger maintains a more understated and practical appearance. Naturally, the Raptor commands a higher price tag, reflecting its enhanced capabilities. The standard Ranger remains the more budget-friendly option, appealing to buyers who need a capable truck for everyday tasks without requiring extreme off-road performance.
In conclusion, the 2024 Ford Ranger occupies a distinct position in the current truck market. It’s the dependable, no-nonsense mid-size truck for those who prioritize practicality and value. While it may not possess the over-the-top persona of some of its competitors, or even its Raptor sibling, the Ranger excels as a reliable workhorse that efficiently handles daily tasks, DIY projects, and weekend adventures. It’s the sensible choice in a world increasingly obsessed with extremes, proving that sometimes, “just doing the job” is more than enough.
2024 Ford Ranger XLT Specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| MSRP (as tested) | $40,748 |
| Engine | 2.3-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 270 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Comb) | 20/24/22 mpg |
| Fuel Economy (Tested) | 25 mpg (mixed) |
| Curb Weight | 4,415 lbs |
| Max Towing Capacity | 7,500 lbs |
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,711 lbs |
| Length | 210.6 in |
| Width (with mirrors) | 86.7 in |
| Height | 74.4 in |
| Wheelbase | 128.7 in |
| Bed Length | 59.6 in |
| Ground Clearance | 9.3 in |
| Front Head Room | 41.0 in |
| Front Leg Room | 43.7 in |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.1 in |
| Front Hip Room | 55.9 in |
| Rear Head Room | 39.8 in |
| Rear Leg Room | 34.6 in |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.7 in |
| Rear Hip Room | 54.1 in |
| Basic Warranty | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
| Corrosion Warranty | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
