Diesel Power is Needed for the New U.S. Ford Ranger
We’re excited that there is a new Ford Ranger on the way. Built at the Michigan Assembly plant, the new Ranger should bring even more fire and competition to the midsize truck segment. While we’re convinced the new truck, if produced, will be competitive, it really should have a small diesel as an option to really shine.
We don’t know anything about the new truck, and Ford hasn’t officially confirmed the existence of plans to build the truck, so we have no idea what engines might power it. But it’s safe to assume that Ford will bring some EcoBoost magic to the show. I wouldn’t be surprised if the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 that I really enjoy is the top-spec engine on the Ranger.
It also wouldn’t surprise me if the base engine was a variant of the four-cylinder 2.0L EcoBoost (or 2.3L) found in many of Ford’s cars and SUVs. It’s another solid choice that delivers decent fuel economy.
But I recently had the chance to sample the 2.8L Duramax diesel in the Chevrolet Colorado, and let me tell you, it’s a peach. Lots of down-low torque make the truck feel very tractable, and the engine is definitely a refined piece of engineering. Also, the EPA ratings have come out, and it’s the most fuel efficient truck on sale with a 31 mpg highway rating.
While a diesel-powered Ranger would come at a price premium, the midsize truck is a great platform for one of those smaller diesels, and Ford already has them used elsewhere in the world. Here’s hoping one makes its way into the new U.S.-bound Ranger.
What do you think? Let us know in the forums!
