2024 FORD RANGER GETS A TOTAL OVERHAUL

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

An all-new Ranger is in town, as in the 2024 Ford midsize pickup. Tested for millions of miles in extreme temperatures in New Zealand, Australia and the U.S., the completely redesigned Ranger picks up 2 inches in wheelbase and track, improved ground clearance and better approach/departure angles. Sandwiched between the best-seller F-150 and the smaller Maverick, it ranks No. 2 in midsize truck segment in the U.S. and No. 1 in sales in 17 countries.

Available in XL, XLT and Lariat trims, the 10-speed auto gear box maintains its status quo. A 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 cylinder puts out 270 horsepower and 310 pounds-feet of torque; and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, borrowed from the F-150 and Bronco, make 315 hp and 410 pounds-feet of torque. EcoBoost is essentially twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine working in tandem with gasoline direct injection to produce a dominant but fuel-efficient engine. Guiding the truck is an electric power-assist steering while suspension is handled up front by a short-long-arm independent and a Hotchkiss-type non-independent live rear system.

The muscular, dominating front with a sculpted hood sports signature Ford C-clamp headlamps that flank the familiar, centered Blue Oval emblem. Depending on the trim you pick, the interior comes with an 8-inch or 12-inch instrument cluster and the 10.1-inch or 12-inch center touchscreen infotainment system; 360-degree camera; Sync4 and 4GLTE modem; zone lights; off-road screens; wireless phone charger; and 10-speaker premium sound. A center console bin, big door pockets, under-seat rear bin, six tie-downs and fold-flat second seat are standard. Oh, and the tailgate doubles as a workbench.

RANGER RAPTOR: This high-performance, off-road and four-wheel-drive Ranger gets a 3.0-liter EcoBoost intercooled and twin-turbocharged V-6 engine blasting off 405 hp and 430 pounds-feet of torque. Ensuring you are safe and sound off the beaten path is a new Watts-Link rear suspension, and electronically 2-speed transfer case, reinforced locking differentials, front frame rails, bash plate and shock towers; and rear shock brackets. The 33-inch all-terrain tires sit on 17-inch wheels. The FORD lettering grille is similar to the F-150’s. The code orange interior look is classy and attractive.

Ranger will start at $34,160 and Ranger Raptor at $56,960. To build your favorite Ranger, visit https://www.ford.com/trucks/ranger/2024/ It will be another warm homecoming for the revamped Ranger in a crowded and highly competitive midsize pickup market. Though by no means a full-size truck, this Ford serves the purpose of one with commanding cargo and towing capability, and sufficient fuel efficiency while delivering a practical ride.

FORD RANGER (SUPERCREW 4X2)

Tires: P255/70R17

Wheelbase: 128.7 inches

Length: 210.6 inches

Width: 86.7 inches

Height: 73.9 inches

Weight: 4,203 pounds

Fuel capacity: 18.8 gallons

City: 21 mpg

Highway: 26 mpg

Web site: www.ford.com

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