It’s Back and its Sharp!
History lesson – The Ford Ranger was first sold back in 1983 and had a 35-year run before being retired in the United States. It still survived in markets in other countries but not here at home – until its rebirth this year. What has been resurrected is a greatly-improved midsize pickup that has little relationship with its past brother. Truck lovers have been asking for and looking forward to its long-awaited return.
The all-new 2019 Ford Ranger is recognizable as the Ranger, yet modernized, bold, larger, and strikingly masculine. What it is not is a miniature version of the F-150, a cheap pickup, or a copy of its competitors. It is designed to stand out as a rugged and capable pickup, loaded with power and techy features.
Pricing and Trims
The
2019 Ford Ranger is available in two body styles: SuperCab and SuperCrew. Both
are obtainable in three trim levels:XL, XLT, and Lariat. This article focuses
on my test vehicle which was the SuperCrew and is priced as follows: XL 2WD
($27,615) and 4WD ($31,436), XLT2WD ($31,210) and 4WD ($35,210), and Lariat2WD
($35,480) and 4WD ($39,480).
What’s new for 2019?
In comparison to its previous model back in 2011 when the Ranger languished as
a fleet vehicle during its final years, well…how about everything? The old
Ranger felt like a light version of a pickup whereas the all-new 2019 Ranger
feels competitive to a full-size pickup in power, packaging, and valiant
design.
Interior Highpoints
The
2019 Ranger’s cabin is handsome and organized with properly-placed
driver-assist technologies to enable easier driving both on and off-road.
Technology starts with a touch screen for available SYNC® 3, while a single or
dual LCD-productivity screen is available for real-time vehicle, navigation and
audio information. I should share that my test vehicle was the top of the line
Lariat 4×4. The seats in my Ranger were dual-bucket heated seats with leather
trim. The Base XL and XLT trims are equipped with a small 4.2-inch radio screen
whereas the Lariat has an 8-inch touch screen that is optional on the XLT.
Interior color options are black and tan. The second-row seats had adequate
room with two USB outlets and an AC 110V with our Lariat packaging.
Exterior Highlights
The
Ranger body has an athletic appearance and features a front facia similar to
the Ford Edge crossover that lie in-between headlights lined with LED lights.
The dual color bumper adds to the graphic design of the frontend. The Ranger
sits high with a 5-foot bed and front-hinged rear doors. The bed has six
interior tie-downs and a spray-in bedliner is available as an option. The doors
are carved with a deep cut that creates a visual gift and unique
expression.
Performance Specs
The
2019 Ford Ranger is anchored by a high-strength steel frame and powered by a
2.3-liter EcoBoost® that generates the power of a 6-cylinder with 270
horsepower and is paired to an efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. The
payload tops out at 1,560 lbs. for the SuperCrew and has a maximum towing
capacity of 7,500 lbs., which Ford claims is the best-in-class. The 2019 Ranger
is comfortable and maneuverable with an impressive turning radius and
responsive steering.
Cool Features:
- Digital Dash
- Multiple USB outlets
- Ford Co-Pilot-360™ – Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Info System, Pre-Collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert
- Auto Start-Stop Technology
Safety
& Integrity
The 2019 Ford Ranger safety features include Ford Co-Pilot-360™ –
Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Info System, Pre-collision
Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert, Perimeter Anti-theft Alarm, Rear View Camera,
Keyless Entry Keypad, Airbags: Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Safety
Canopy® side-curtain airbags, Reflector, Wiper-Activated Headlamps, and Forward
Collision Warning, Dynamic Brake Support. Some items are optional for a fee.
In Summary
The 2019 Ford Ranger SuperCrew is a newly-enhanced version of the older brother with a new powerful and attractive presence. You have the power of 6-cylinders with the fuel economy of a 4- cylinder. The interior is well-presented and engaged. The Ranger is poised to be an essential part of Ford’s truck growth here and abroad. If you are looking for a midsize pickup, the Ranger could meet all of your requirements. Check it out!
Specifications.
2019 Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 4WD
Base price: $38,385 as driven:$44,855 (including destination & optional features)
Engine: 2.3-Liter EcoBoost Turbo 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 270 hp@ 5500 RPM
Torque: 310 lb.-ft.@ 3000 RPM
Transmission: 10-speed automatic transmission
Drive: Four-Wheel Drive
Seating: 5-passenger
Cargo space: 43.3 to 51.8 cubic feet
Curb weight: 4354pounds
EPA mileage: City 21/Hwy 26/Comb 23 MPG
Max Towing: 7500 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 18 gallons
Wheel Base: 126.8 inches
Warranty: 3 years/36,000-miles
Also Consider: Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma
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