2024 Ford Ranger Packs More Power, Tech, and Capability

The 2024 Ford Ranger brings back the V6, and borrows tech from its F-150 big brother.

Ford on Wednesday morning revealed the 2024 Ford Ranger for the North American market ( including the Ranger Raptor). The mid-sized truck first debuted well over a year ago for other markets, but now we know how the pickup will line up with the segment when it begins arriving in dealerships this summer.

The Ranger rides on a revised version of the existing platform. That has allowed Ford to keep the dimensions tidy: the wheelbase is now 128.7 inches (3,269 millimeters), an increase of 1.9 inches (48 mm). The full length is now a hair shorter, however, while width and height are up around one and three inches (28 and 84 mm), respectively. Despite these changes, the SuperCrew models—the only body style this generation—are ever so slightly lighter than the outgoing model. The increased width allows for more space between the wheel arches: owners can now lay four-foot items down back there. There’s also more standard grown clearance: 9.3 inches (236 mm) for the rear-drive model, and 10.4 inches (264 mm) for the 4×4.

More than the measurements, it’s the modernized looks that set the new Ranger apart. It’s an altogether blockier look, ditching the EcoSport-with-a-bed styling of the last model. The new rig stops shy of the over-aggressive styling cues that have plagued the pickup truck segment for the last decade, however, with a friendly face that has a hint of baby brother Maverick to it. Standard wheels are now 17-inch items, with 18s available.

Under the hood, the tried-and-true 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder returns, still producing a solid 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Buyers looking for additional power can opt for the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 that’s also found in the Bronco and F-150. The only turbocharged V6 in the segment, the six-pot produces 315 horsepower and a huge 400 lb-ft of torque. Both engines hook up to a standard 10-speed automatic, which Ford has tweaked with ever so slightly shorter ratios for the first half of its gears. In America, rear-drive is standard, with electronic 4WD optional; in Canada, it’s only the latter. An electronic locking differential is available for both configurations.

There’s no hybrid option to speak of, which strikes us as slightly odd given both the Maverick and F-150’s popular electrified powertrains.

Ford has done more work under the Ranger’s skin, too: it tested the latest Ranger across 10 countries in five continents. The rear shocks and their mounts are now outboard of the frame rails, which Ford says improves the ride and handling. Towing capacity now maxes out at 7,500 lb, with up to 1,805 lb of payload capacity (or 1,711 lb in Canada). Those blockier looks have also resulted in improved approach and departure angles for the 2024 model.

The cabin is a huge departure from the outgoing model, which was originally designed for other markets. Thoroughly modernized with improved materials and a cleaner design, it features a pair of screens, including an 8.0-inch display behind the redesigned steering wheel and 10.1-inch touchscreen in the center stack. Upgrades exist for both, moving up to 12.4 and 12.0 inches, respectively. The central screen runs Ford Sync 4A, which is speedy and easy to learn based on our various experiences with it. Ford hasn’t forgotten about physical buttons and dials either, keeping those down low for climate and audio controls.

There are other useful tech goodies too, including an available wireless charging pad, exterior Zone Lighting, FordPass App integration, and over-the-air updates. Ford will offer a 400-watt power inverter with an outlet in the bed, too. No sign of BlueCruise, however.

The 2024 Ford Ranger includes a gaggle of driver assists, including full-range adaptive cruise control and automated emergency braking. The blind spot monitoring system also includes Trailer Coverage. On that front, buyers can find the Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Trailer Reverse Guidance systems to make towing easier. There’s also an automated parking assist.

The 2024 Ford Ranger will be built four plants across the globe; North American models will come from Wayne, Michigan. Orders go live later this month, and sales will begin before summer ends. The V6 model will arrive a little later, in autumn. Pricing will start from $35,755 ($43,350 CAD), including destination. Expect a more detailed breakdown of features and pricing closer to launch.

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