The Ford Ranger has consistently been a top contender in the midsize truck segment, captivating drivers with its blend of capability, versatility, and modern features. But what do the experts and owners really think about this popular pickup? Let's dive into a collection of reviews and testimonials to uncover the Ranger's strengths and weaknesses.
Awards and Accolades: A Proven Winner
The Ranger's excellence hasn't gone unnoticed by industry organizations:
- 2020 International Pickup Award (IPUA): The Ranger captured the prestigious IPUA, recognizing its outstanding performance in both on-road and off-road tests.
- CarSales Best Dual Cab 4x4 Award 2022: Awarded to the Ranger XLT for its blend of toughness and family-friendly features.
- Multiple Awards in Malaysia: The Ranger has garnered numerous awards in Malaysia, including the Malaysia Car of the Year 2023 - Best Truck, further solidifying its global appeal.‹
Expert Opinions: High Praise from the Automotive World
The Ranger consistently receives high marks from automotive experts and critics:
Motor Trend: Lauds the Ranger's comfortable ride and spacious interior, especially for a midsize truck. They also highlight its "surprisingly capable off-roader" capabilities, making it a versatile choice for both work and play.
- Pros: Comfortable ride, spacious interior (especially for a midsize truck), surprisingly capable off-roader, versatile for both work and play.
- Cons: Not explicitly mentioned in the given quote, but some other reviews point to its slightly higher price point compared to some competitors and a somewhat dated interior design.
Car and Driver: Appreciates the Ranger's "strong turbocharged four-cylinder engine and smooth 10-speed automatic transmission." They also note its "comfortable ride and decent handling," making it enjoyable for daily driving.
- Pros: Strong turbocharged four-cylinder engine, smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, comfortable ride, decent handling, making it enjoyable for daily driving
- Cons: Some reviews mention a slightly stiff ride when unladen and a less refined interior compared to some rivals.
Edmunds: Commends the Ranger's "fuel-efficient powertrain options and well-rounded performance." They also highlight its "user-friendly tech features" and "spacious cabin."
- Pros: Fuel-efficient powertrain options, well-rounded performance, user-friendly tech features, spacious cabin
- Cons: Edmunds points out that the Ranger's off-road capabilities, while good, may not be as extreme as some dedicated off-roaders in the segment.
Kelley Blue Book: Praises the Ranger's "impressive towing and payload capacity" and its "available off-road features," making it a capable workhorse and adventure companion.
- Pros: Impressive towing and payload capacity, available off-road features, making it a capable workhorse and adventure companion
- Cons: KBB notes that the Ranger's base engine can feel a bit underpowered for some, and its interior design, while functional, may not be as luxurious as some competitors.
Overall, the expert consensus is that the Ford Ranger is a well-rounded midsize truck that excels in various areas. It offers a comfortable and spacious cabin, capable performance both on and off-road, user-friendly technology, and impressive fuel efficiency. While it might have a few minor drawbacks, the Ranger's strengths make it a compelling choice for a wide range of drivers, from weekend warriors to hardworking professionals.
Ford Ranger Review Breakdown
Forum Chatter: Real-World Owners Speak Up
Beyond the expert reviews, let's hear what everyday Ranger owners have to say about their trucks on online forums and communities:
Reddit's r/fordranger: This subreddit is a hub for Ranger owners to share their experiences, ask questions, and offer advice. You'll find discussions on everything from towing and off-roading to fuel economy and technology features.
- “22 ranger XLT. Northern Illinois. Snow and mud aren't a problem, tows everything i need it to and then some. Zero issues so far.”‹
Ranger5G Forum: Another dedicated forum for Ranger enthusiasts, where owners share their modifications, tips, and real-world experiences.
Common themes in owner reviews often include:
- Reliability: Many owners praise the Ranger's dependability and longevity, reporting minimal issues even after years of ownership.
- Capability: The Ranger's ability to handle both on-road and off-road driving is frequently mentioned, making it a versatile choice for various lifestyles.
- Comfort: The truck's spacious and comfortable interior, especially for taller drivers and passengers, is a major plus.
- Technology: Owners appreciate the Ranger's intuitive tech features, including the SYNC® 4 infotainment system and available driver-assist technologies.
- Fuel Efficiency: The 2.3L EcoBoost engine's fuel efficiency is often praised, especially considering the truck's capabilities.
Ford Ranger Models: A Truck for Every Need
The Ranger's versatility shines through its diverse range of models, each catering to different lifestyles and preferences:
- Ranger XL: The base model, offering essential features and capability at an attractive price point, perfect for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable workhorse.
- Ranger XLT: Adds more comfort and convenience features, such as alloy wheels, power-adjustable seats, and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.
- Ranger Lariat: Elevates the Ranger experience with luxurious touches like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and ambient lighting.
- Ranger Tremor: Built for off-road enthusiasts, the Tremor features upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a terrain management system to conquer challenging terrain.
- Ranger Raptor: The ultimate performance off-road truck, boasting a powerful twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine, FOX™ Live Valve shocks, and aggressive styling.
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2024 Ford Ranger Lariat | Price: Please Call | |
| Bodystyle: Truck SuperCrew | Int. Color: Ebony | ||
| Engine: I-4 cyl | Odometer: 14 | ||
| Transmission: 10 speed automatic | Stock #: 740182 | ||
| Ext. Color: Carbonized Gray Metallic | Vin: 1FTER4JH2RLE18207 | ||
| CLICK FOR DETAILS | |||
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2024 Ford Ranger XLT | Price: Please Call | |
| Bodystyle: Truck SuperCrew | Int. Color: Ebony | ||
| Engine: I-4 cyl | Odometer: 5 | ||
| Transmission: 10 speed automatic | Stock #: 740196 | ||
| Ext. Color: Cactus Gray | Vin: 1FTER4GH1RLE14060 | ||
| CLICK FOR DETAILS | |||
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2024 Ford Ranger XL | Price: Please Call | |
| Bodystyle: Truck SuperCrew | Int. Color: Ebony | ||
| Engine: I-4 cyl | Odometer: 18 | ||
| Transmission: 10 speed automatic | Stock #: 740250 | ||
| Ext. Color: Cactus Gray | Vin: 1FTER4BH8RLE27928 | ||
| CLICK FOR DETAILS | |||
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The Verdict: A Well-Rounded Midsize Truck
The Ford Ranger consistently earns high marks from both experts and owners, showcasing its strengths in various areas. Its combination of power, capability, comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency makes it a compelling choice for a wide range of drivers.
Experience the Ranger at Valley Isle Motors Ford
If you're considering a midsize truck on Maui, we invite you to visit Valley Isle Motors Ford in Kahului to experience the Ford Ranger firsthand. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to answer your questions, arrange a test drive, and help you find the perfect Ranger configuration to suit your needs and budget.
Remember:
- Read expert reviews to gain insights into the truck's strengths and weaknesses.
- Explore online forums and communities to hear from real-world owners.
- Visit Valley Isle Motors Ford to experience the Ranger for yourself and make an informed decision.
We're confident that once you get behind the wheel of a Ford Ranger, you'll understand why it's a top choice for drivers across Hawaii!
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