Where has the compact Ford Ranger pickup been?
Everywhere but the United States and Canada since 2011, when it was discontinued here, but morphed into a mid-size pickup for the rest of the world. Why? Maybe Ford wanted to sell more F-150s – that’s my guess.
But now it’s back! The 2019 Ford Ranger SuperCrew 4×4 XLT with a five-foot box pickup is bigger and better than ever!
The all-new Ranger is available in either SuperCab or SuperCrew configurations. It can be optioned with 4×2 or 4×4, and comes in three trim levels – XL, XLT and Lariat. Chrome and Sport appearance packages are available.
“Mid-size truck customers have been asking for a pickup that’s Built Ford Tough,” said Todd Eckert, Ford truck group marketing manager. “And Ranger will deliver with durability, capability and fuel efficiency, while also providing in-city maneuverability and the freedom desired by many mid-size pickup truck buyers to go off the grid.”
Ranger is powered by a standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering the most torque of any gas engine in the mid-size pickup segment. Paired with a class-exclusive, 10-speed transmission, Ranger boasts a unique combination of efficiency, (22 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving) power and capability.
With its SuperCrew cab, the Ranger can seat up to five adults (two captain’s chairs and a second-row bench), and comes with a spray-in bedliner with hooks to secure countless objects.
When properly equipped, this shines through in the truck’s best-in-class 7,500 pounds of gas towing capacity with available tow package, and best-in-class 1,860 pounds of maximum payload to handle all your gear.
The new exterior is athletic in appearance, with a raked grille and windshield aiding aerodynamics and reducing wind noise. Short overhangs allow for better approach and departure angles off-road. My tester came with 17-inch aluminum wheels and Saber coat of paint, which to my eyes, appeared copper.
Like virtually any truck these days, the Ranger was loaded with creature comforts and innovative technology, to match any car. Goodie bag highlights included navigation, adaptive cruise control, remote start, dual-zone climate control, privacy glass, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Hotspot and more.
Technology comes built-in, starting with an eight-inch touch screen for available SYNC 3, while a single or dual LCD productivity screen is available for real-time vehicle, navigation and audio information. Ranger has standard pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking. A lane-keeping system that includes lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, reverse sensing and class-exclusive blind-spot information with trailer coverage is standard on the XLT.
Rangers are assembled at one of Ford’s Michigan assembly plants.
Base Price: $35,235
Price As Driven: $40,125
Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.
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