Ford Ranger: Compact yet capable

“Built Ford Tough.” The iconic slogan was introduced in 1979 to describe the durability of this classic American brand. Since then, the ruggedness, versatility and capability of the popular Ranger pickup have certainly validated that description. Currently evolving into its next generation for 2024, the Ranger has long been a staple of the Mountain West region. It’s  popular with families, adventure-seekers, construction companies and everyday drivers alike. But what are the keys to the Ranger’s continued popularity? Let’s find out. Shop Ford Ranger models.

Background

Before diving into the Ranger’s complete history, it’s worth mentioning that the Ranger name has been used by Ford for a long time. In fact, “Ranger” first appeared on an Edsel sedan in the late 1950s. It was later used as a trim level of the F-Series pickups beginning in 1965, and in 1972, the Bronco sport-utility vehicle had a Ranger variant.

The Ranger as we know it today first debuted in North America for the 1983 model year. It remained in production on the same compact chassis for nearly 30 years through model year 2011. Within that time frame, there were two distinct generations and multiple facelifts within each. In 2019, Ford brought back the Ranger nameplate as a midsize pickup, and now a new version is now going on sale for model year 2024.

First generation (1983 through 1992)

When first offered as a standalone nameplate forty years ago, the 1983 Ranger pickup shared design aesthetics with the larger, full-sized, F-Series pickups. Despite being smaller in stature, it offered a payload that matched the larger F-100 at 1,600 pounds. Because of this, the Ranger’s appeal revolved around its ability to do big-truck work with smaller dimensions (and better fuel economy). Various engine types were available, ranging from a 2.0-liter inline-four to a 2.8-liter V8, the latter producing 115 horsepower.

Underpinnings consisted of a body-on frame chassis that was available in three different wheelbase lengths ranging from 107 to 125 inches, regular-cab or extended cab body styles, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive. In 1989, the Ranger received a redesign with composite headlights and a restyled front end (which was subsequently shared with the Explorer sport-utility vehicle in 1991). 

Its five trim levels spanned a variety of price points, ranging from a basic “S” pickup with vinyl flooring to a high-option XLT with chrome bumpers, power accessories and a sliding rear window. Shop first generation Ford Ranger listings.

Second generation (1993 through 2011)

In August 1992, Ford rolled out a new generation of the Ranger that had a completely redesigned exterior which featured more aerodynamic panels. It was offered in regular cab and extended-cab variants, and the chassis was a carry-over from the prior generation (although the dimensions were tweaked to increase the cab by three inches and lengthen the SuperCab’s wheelbase). A stepside called the Splash was introduced, featuring a lowered suspension, bucket seats and special decals.

Safety equipment took a big step forward during this generation; dual airbags were introduced in 1996, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes became standard on four-wheel drive Rangers. Three engines were available, including a 2.3-liter inline-four, a 3.0-liter Vulcan V6 and a 4.0-liter Cologne V6.

Some resources classify the 1998 through 2011 Ranger as a third generation, while some don’t. The truck was visually similar to the prior version, but it did come with plenty of changes, including the addition of a redesigned boxed frame, lengthened wheelbases, a new front suspension and rack-and-pinion power steering.

Worth noting: Between 1994 and 2010, Mazda sold a “rebadged” version of the Ranger in the United States and Canada. This pickup was known as the B-Series and was a mechanical twin to the Ranger but had distinct exterior aesthetics and trim offerings. One of the differences was that all B-Series trucks were produced with Styleside (or stepside) beds. Shop second generation Ford Ranger listings.

Third generation (2019 through 2023)

In 2019, Ford brought back the Ranger name in the United States after an eight-model-year hiatus. The new truck was based on the midsize T6 platform that was designed in Australia in 2011. However, unlike in overseas markets, the North American Ranger was only offered in four-door SuperCab and four-door SuperCrew variations. Additionally, although both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive were offered, all Rangers now rode on the higher-profile 4x4 chassis. 

Trim variations for this generation ranged from a base XL to a top-tier Lariat, with an off-road oriented version called the Tremor launching for the 2021 model year with updated suspension, added skid plates and all-terrain tires. 

Drivetrain offerings were narrowed to just one. Power for this Ranger came exclusively from a twin-scroll turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four with 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Similarly, the only available transmission was a 10-speed automatic, so that made the configuration (and decision-making) process simpler. Shop third generation Ford Ranger listings.

Coming attractions: Next generation (2024)

In May 2023, Ford debuted a highly anticipated new version of the Ranger. Orders are now being taken for the 2024-model-year truck which will share styling elements with the larger F-Series. The newest Ranger, dubbed the “P703,” comes with additional wheelbase offerings, a new suspension and a wider bed for improved cargo capacity. Power is derived from a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four as well as an optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6.

In line with modern in-car technology, the new Ranger provides towing assistance features, a standard eight-inch digital instrument cluster and an available built-in 4G LTE modem. Pricing for the base model starts at $34,160. Meanwhile, the $56,990, off-road Raptor variant is positioned as the ultimate performer: It will have a 405-horsepower engine along with additional equipment like 33-inch tires for maximum go-anywhere capability.

KSL Cars: Your “Ranger Station”

No matter the year or configuration, there’s no disputing that Ranger has been an achiever since its inception. A compact pickup like the Ranger can be one of the handiest tools to have for tasks around the house, workshop or camp site. 

Is it time to add a Ranger to your life? Check out the listings on KSL Cars and browse the many used Rangers available for sale in your local marketplace.