Three Alternatives for the Ford Ranger Blues
The Ford Ranger is loved by many, for a variety of reasons. For some, the lower cost of entry is appealing. For others, being able to fit their truck in their garage is important. But it doesn’t matter why you love the Ranger, you just do.
If you saw pictures and details about the new Ford Ranger recently revealed in Thailand and it got you excited for a new vehicle, then you probably were equally disappointed to learn that the new Ranger won’t be coming to the United States.
CHECK OUT: Ford Shows Off New Ranger and You Can’t Have It!
But have no fear, faithful readers! If you’re in the market for a Ranger but can’t get one, I have compiled a list of three compelling alternatives that you should check out and the reasons why. Let’s get started!
Chevrolet Colorado
C’mon, you had know this would be the first one! The Colorado is a midsize truck offering from General Motors’ Chevrolet division and it provides all of the benefits of the Ranger, just with a different badge.
If towing capacity is your thing, the new Ranger can tow, when equipped properly, up to 3,500 kilograms. That’s approximately 7,700 pounds of weight. The Colorado, when equipped properly, can tow up to 7,000 pounds. For me, that’s pretty similar.
CHECK OUT: Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss Ready to Tackle Off-Road
The towing capacity of the Ranger is most likely with the diesel engine. The Colorado will also be offering a 2.8L Duramax diesel later this year.
Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
If you like the outdoors and spend you weekends out having fun, the Ranger probably appeals to you. But another appealing vehicle, especially in this situation, is the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. Designed to handle the likes of the Rubicon Trail, it will go anywhere a Ranger will, and some.
The Trailhawk has approach and departure angles of 29.8 and 32.1 degrees, respectively. That beats the 28 and 25 degree approach and departure angles of the Ford Ranger in it’s most off-road configuration.
It may not be able to tow 7,000+ pounds, but it is rated to tow 4,500 with the towing package. That’s more than enough to cover most peoples’ weekend toys.
The obvious downside is that it isn’t a truck with a bed to haul things, but midsize truck beds aren’t the most spacious to begin with. If you don’t really need a bed, the Trailhawk is a compelling option.
Ford Escape
If you’re looking to stay within the Blue Oval and don’t need the serious off-road hardware that comes with the Trailhawk, then you should definitely check out the Escape.
If you opt for the 2.0L EcoBoost turbo, you can spec your Escape to be able to tow 3,500 pounds. Again, that’s enough to haul ATVs, wave runners, or other off-road toys.
It’s all-wheel drive isn’t as sophisticated as some of the other vehicles mentioned here, but it’s capable of soft-roading fine. Where most people drive, the Escape can go.
There are other vehicles out there that would also fit the needs of a potential Ranger buyer, including the bigger Ford F-150. What would you recommend? Let us know in the forums!
