2024 Ford Ranger First-Look: More Engines, More Tech, More Money
The 2024 Ford Ranger is wider and longer with more technology and three engine options. But 2-Door models are officially done.
Full disclosure: the Ford Motor Company flew Ford Truck Enthusiasts to Detroit to see the 2024 Ford Ranger in person. Ford covered travel and amenities.
The F-Series may be King in the United States, but everywhere else, the Ranger is the best seller. Which is why it’s sometimes called “the F-150 of the world.” The outgoing-generation Ranger (2019-2023 here in the States) was first designed and produced for overseas markets. But, for 2024, the next-generation Ranger flips that script. It’s still going to be a global truck, of course. But this time Ford approached the build from more of an American perspective.
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As such, we get a truck that’s visually more in line with the F-Series and Maverick. More muscular, with squared-off angles. The wheelbase is two inches longer for improved ride quality. The Ranger’s also now two inches wider with room for 4′ sheets of plywood or drywall between the wheel wells in the box. Visibility and sidelines are improved, and there’s more technology and features than ever before.
And that’s before we get to the Ranger Raptor (which you can read about in full HERE).
Trim Levels & Packages
The 2024 Ford Ranger will be available in three main trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat. Each trim level offers a unique grille and front-end appearance. Ford’s signature C-clamp headlight treatment and strong shoulder lines give the Ranger a bold and confident look. Also be on the lookout for optional packages like the Chrome Appearance Package (XLT & Lariat), the STX Appearance Package (XL), and FX4 off-roading package.
Unfortunately, at launch, there’s no word on when or if a Ranger Tremor or Ranger FX2 may be offered.
Engines & Transmission
Built on the same platform and in the same factory as the Ford Bronco, the 2024 Ranger now offers three engine options. (Two for the XL, XLT, and Lariat; one for the Raptor.) The standard engine for the 2024 Ranger is the reliable 2.3-liter EcoBoost, producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. For added power, customers can choose the available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, which delivers 315 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. All Rangers come with a class-exclusive 10-speed automatic SelectShift transmission and an available electronic shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system for optimal off-road capability.
And if you opt for the Raptor variant, the 3.0L EcoBoost puts out a whopping 405 horsepower and 430 lb.-ft. of toque.
Technology & Interior
Inside, the 2024 Ranger offers the latest in connectivity and technology, with a standard 8-inch digital instrument cluster or an available 12.4-inch cluster, complemented by a standard 10.1-inch or available 12-inch center touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system. Yes, you’re reading that right. Every single 2024 Ranger includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto regardless of trim level. FordPass Connect provides an embedded 4G LTE modem and access to various features at your fingertips, while over-the-air updates continually enhance the driving experience.
Ford also update the seats themselves, with new easy-to-clean materials. The front seats feature extra bolstering and are quite comfortable. Out back, the rear seats fold flat for carrying gear (but folding them down requires removing the headrests). And there’s extra storage underneath.
Towing & Payload
Ford plans to offer three levels of towing on the 2024 Ranger. The standard ball-hitch setup will give you up to 3,500 pounds of towing. Jump up to the tow package for 7, 500 pounds of towing. Or, opt for the Max Tow Package, which adds in all of the optional tech. Pro Trailer Backup Assist, an integrated trailer brake controller, and a 360-degree camera. Max payload sits at 1,805 pounds, down about 100 pounds versus the 2023 model year.
The Ranger’s 5-foot box (or bed) also features several interesting upgrades. On the outside, optional integrated sidesteps improve the ergonomics of getting up into the bed. The tailgate boasts an integrated ruler as well as optional damping. And all XLT and Lariat Rangers include a 400w (120v) power outlet in the box.
Safety Features
Offering 31 standard or available driver-assist features, the 2024 Ranger boasts the most available driver-assist features in its class. These include (blind-spot monitoring) BLIS with Trailer Coverage, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and class-exclusive Active Park Assist 2.0, among others. Unlike the F-150 BLIS with Trailer Coverage, drivers will have to input each trailer’s specific length (it is not autodetected with the sensors).
One might notice that Ford has two shifter variants offered in the Ranger. For XL and XLT models, it’s a standard physical shifter similar to the outgoing 2023 model year. For Lariat and Raptor, Ford engineers designed a new e-shifter that’s not actually mechanical but offers a similar feeling.
What’s the point, you might be wondering? First, Ford listened to customers who said they didn’t want a dial. Second, for more advanced features like Active Park Assist, one needs an electronic shifter. So here we are.
Super Crew Only
Much like the Maverick and several F-150 trim levels, the all-new Ranger will only be available in the four-door SuperCrew configurations. Yep, every single 2024 Ranger will have four doors and a five-foot box (or bed). If you’re looking for two doors and a six-foot box, you’ll have to get a 2023 model Ranger (or a Tacoma).
Unfortunately, as consumer preferences have shifted away from passenger cars to utility vehicles like pickup trucks, SuperCrew models become the best-sellers, making it prohibitively expensive to produce multiple body styles. And that comes at a cost of box space (and about a hundred fewer pounds in payload).
Pricing and Availability
Orders will begin later this month for the 2024 Ford Ranger. With a starting MSRP of $34,160 for an XL model, 2.3L EcoBoost-powered models and Ranger Raptors will be available in late Summer 2023. 2.7L EcoBoost models will be available in late fall. Raptor models start at just under $57,000, which is relatively affordable in the Raptor world. (Again, click HERE for full Raner Raptor details and our hands-on review.)
Unfortunately, this starting price is a big jump up versus the 2023 model year, with a no-option 2024 XL costing within about a thousand dollars of a base 2023 Lariat. Much of this, I’m sure Ford would argue, is due to the missing SuperCab configuration and inflation. But we’ve officially arrived in an era where Ford has priced the once entry-level Ranger more like the F-150 from only a generation or two ago.
Hands-on First Look Impressions
Growing up, the Ford Ranger was a completely different vehicle. Two doors, long bed. Simple interiors. Small. No frills. It was a small work truck for, well, working. Today, it’s a four-door mid-size truck that’s much more similar to 1990s F-150s (if Ford had offered something this nice).
In terms of reactions, we’ve yet to drive the new Ranger, but overall, it’s a massive leap forward over the previous generation in almost every way. Sadly, this means the price is way up too, which is a shame. (At least the Maverick is still in the $20s.)
But if it fits your budget, the new Ranger looks more like a truck (but avoided going entering into the Large Grille Wars), should ride smoother, can be outfitted with more powerful engines, and the interior and technology are all excellent. For small families and business owners, the 2024 Ranger could be an appealing package for those who don’t need or want a full-size truck. But still need something very capable and flexible.
Looking forward to reviewing these in more detail.
Photos: Michael S. Palmer & Ford Motor Company
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