2019 Ford Ranger

absolutely! AUTO REVIEW | By Steve Kursar –

The 2019 Ford Ranger pickup is a familiar name, but this truck is all new to the American market. It’s Ford’s re-entry into the mid-size pickup segment, and it doesn’t disappoint on any level. This is the truck for loyal Ford owners who don’t need a full-size F-150 but still like driving a Ford truck. The Ranger can still haul, tow and go off-road – it just does it all in a slightly smaller package.

The previous generation Ranger disappeared from Ford showrooms back in model year 2011 when the automaker decided to abandon the compact/mid-size pickup segment and concentrate on bigger trucks. This latest generation Ranger is based on a design that entered overseas markets in 2015 and bears no resemblance to that original compact truck.

With a base MSRP of $24,300, the new Ford Ranger is offered with only one engine choice: a 270 hp, 2.3 liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. Mated to a ten-speed transmission, this powertrain delivers EPA estimated fuel economy numbers of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. What will surprise anyone hitting the gas pedal for the first time is how peppy and well-suited the 2.3 liter engine is for the new Ranger.

The exterior design allows for great visibility for the driver. The interior isn’t very plush, but the materials used are tough and built for rough use. This is not a luxury truck and even the top-end Lariat trim isn’t that cushy. However, Ford does pack in some handy technology as standard equipment. For instance, even on the entry XL trim, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking comes standard. Move up to the XLT trim, and the Lane-Keeping System that includes lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, reverse sensing and the Blind Spot Information System with trailer coverage is a standard feature.

The new Ranger only comes in SuperCab or SuperCrew configurations; a single cab is not available. For those who need a serious off-road truck, a FX4 Off-Road Package is available that features off-road-tuned suspension, frame mounted heavy-gauge steel front bash plate and skid plates, all-terrain tires and a rear locking differential. The FX4 also has the Terrain Management System with four distinct drive modes and Trail Control, which allows the driver to safely descend steep rocky paths.

It’s great to have the Ranger back in Ford showrooms. If you don’t want or need a full-size pickup but gotta have a truck in your garage, then the 2019 Ranger might just be the thing you need.