Plus, there’s a Ford Ranger Raptor edition!
We’ve been hearing the buzz for a while now and finally, the wraps have come off the 2024 Ford Ranger. We went to Ranger School just outside of Detroit, Michigan (Yes, Ranger School! Who knew there was such a thing?) to get a sneak peak at the this newly redesigned and capability-laden 2024 Ranger. While I was there, Gretchen Sauer, Marketing Manager for Ford Ranger, shared the core principles guiding the development of this new global pickup truck along with what they felt were important to Ranger owners and prospective owners. Through extensive research, Ford drilled down to the heart of what their customers were craving with the new Ranger: adventure.
Ford has engineered each aspect of the all-new Ranger to meet the demands of its adventure-craving customers, including its frame, suspension, powertrains, connectivity, and advanced driver assist software. It’s the most connected and capable Ranger ever, and the only midsize pickup from Ford.
Why do we love Ford trucks? For so many reasons!
What does it mean to be “Built Ford Tough”?
Being “Built Ford Tough” means that a vehicle is designed and built to be tough enough to withstand the challenges of heavy use, whether it’s hauling heavy loads, towing trailers, or driving on rough terrain. All Fords that have earned the honor of being named “Built Ford Tough” have seen long-term durability testing. The engines in the new Ranger are tested at more than 700 continuous hours at full throttle. That’s the equivalent of going around the world three times at full throttle. This gives the driver the confidence to explore knowing that it can withstand the roughest of conditions.
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Ranger Completes the Ford Family Pickup Truck Line-up
Smaller than the larger F-150 full size pickup and larger and more capable than the Maverick lifestyle pickup, Ranger hits the sweet spot in the market for consumers looking for capability, maneuverability, and affordability. This category has proven popular with models like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado winning over fans who need a truck but don’t want a full size pickup. Manufactured in five plants across the world Ranger allows Ford to compete in that arena both in the US and internationally.
A New, Bolder Design
This 2024 model is new from the ground up. While the model it is replacing was designed for foreign markets and brought to the US more recently, this 2024 Ranger was designed with American buyers in mind first and foremost. Design choices like the wide, boxy shape on the outside and larger, more comfortable seats inside should make buyers worldwide very happy.
For most Ranger models, Ford increased the width and wheelbase by 2 inches in each direction to make for a better ride, more capable bed, and roomier interior. Speaking of that interior, Ford has paid a lot of attention to technology, clever storage options, and ease of cleanup – whether you’re a busy parent or out on the trails.
Interior storage ranges from a large glovebox and center console, a second, upper glovebox, and hidden rear under-seat cargo bins that are large enough for muddy boots or concealing your purse or other items from prying eyes. The rear seat also features a fold-flat seat back for loading larger items like dog crates or moving boxes on a large, flat surface. There’s even a French fry holder in front of the dual cup holders and gear shifter. Clearly they know my family.
The bed has been given a purposeful update as well, with more room between the rear wheels, the bed can now hold items up to 4 feet wide. However, my favorite feature of the bed is the available power outlets that are perfect for tailgating. With 400 watts of in-bed power, Ranger can power your tailgate fridge, TV, or electric grill without blowing a fuse. Getting to those power outlets is easy too, with a damped tailgate and optional bedside-mounted steps that can accommodate two feet simultaneously and hold up to 300 pounds making it really easy to climb onto the tailgate or into the bed of the Ranger.
There are two different EcoBoost engines in the XL, XLT, and Lariat trims: a standard 2.3 liter EcoBoost or the optional 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6, which is also found in the Bronco and F-150. High-performance Raptor models will have a larger 3.0 liter EcoBoost, the same as in the from Bronco Raptor, that delivers 405 horsepower.
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More Ranger, More Ready
Admittedly, I’m sometimes intimidated by driving a truck, especially off-road or hauling. Even in perfect conditions, these tasks can be difficult. However, Ford’s advanced driver assist software has made it easier than ever to maneuver whether you’re highway driving or negotiating a snowy hill.
Technology includes a standard 8-inch digital driver information screen and 10.1-inch vertical multimedia screen that is integrated into the dash making it more stable and less likely to be damaged. Lariat and Raptor editions get a larger 12.4-inch driver information screen and a class-leading 12-inch multimedia screen. All use Ford’s SYNC 4A multimedia system, which features climate, entertainment, vehicle settings and driver assistance features, including 360° cameras, multiple towing aides and blind spot monitoring that extends the length of the trailer attached to Ranger. There’s also active park assist 2.0, evasive steering assist, and post-collision braking.
At night to help set up a campsite or tear down a tailgate with ease, Ranger now offers the option of zone lighting to illuminate the area all the way around the Ranger. It can be controlled through the touchscreen or FordPass App; plus the available in-bed lighting helps owners find their gear in the dark.
I begged them to let me take Raptor Ranger home!
My favorite trim level of the new Ranger is Raptor. This high-performance and highly off-road capable option borrows heavily from Bronco and F-150 Raptor models and sits three inches wider than the standard Ranger.
I loved the interior treatment with its bursts of orange around the air vents and stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as the bigger side bolsters on the seat that hold you snugly while adventuring off-road. Materials are brought up a notch, too, with suede accents on the doors, seats, and glovebox cover.
Raptor’s exterior features a modern and sleek design, with bold shoulder lines and a sporty profile that makes it stand out. The truck I viewed had the optional Graphic Package that includes accents above the headlights, bedside, and tailgate. This small attention to detail is unique and makes a big difference in the styling of Raptor over other trim levels.
When Can You Get One?
We were not given an opportunity to drive these new Ranger models yet, but I’m told that orders open later this month for the 2024 models with the 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine, and that all US-market Rangers will be built in Wayne, Michigan. The 2024 Ranger will start at $34,160 and Raptor Ranger Raptor will start at $56,960, including $1,595 for destination and delivery. The ‘Build and Price’ website is expected to be available in the coming weeks.
The combination of functionality and style in the new Ranger makes this truck a great choice for anyone who wants a truck that can do it all while also looking good on the road. And a great choice for women who need a truck that multi-tasks as much as you do.
Disclosure: I was a guest of Ford for this test drive. Travel and accommodations were provided but all opinions are my own.
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