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2006 Ranger ... outdated platform?

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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 07:35 PM
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2006 Ranger ... outdated platform?

I'm considering purschasing an 06 Ranger XL reg cab automatic. All the review I've read talk about how the Ranger is long due for a redesign. But as I keep reading I've learned the 2.3 is efficient and very reliable.

Why change a good thing?
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 07:41 PM
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The platform could use some updating, but if you are looking for a tough and reliable truck, the Ranger is the way to go. Since the platform has been around for awhile, all the bugs have been worked out. My families business has several newer Rangers that just take beatings day after day and they do not complain at all. If you get a newer designed truck you will find that it will have many problems, some may big, some may be small, but with the Ranger you will have none.
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:01 PM
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Considering the price of gas, the 'compact' Ranger with the new 2.3L Duratec is now cutting edge.
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:02 PM
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Originally Posted by 06RANGER
I'm considering purschasing an 06 Ranger XL reg cab automatic. All the review I've read talk about how the Ranger is long due for a redesign. But as I keep reading I've learned the 2.3 is efficient and very reliable.

Why change a good thing?
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:07 PM
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What generation is the Ranger in? How many major redesigns?
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:16 PM
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I think this is 4th or 5th generation rangers now, but I could be wrong on this. the ranger IS a reliable platform though, its been around for MANY years, and its rugged as can be. mine, though a VERY early model, will prove the rugged part.
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:17 PM
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Originally Posted by Tim Lamkin
...Welcome to Ford Truck Enthusiasts!
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Thanks for the welcome!!!
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 08:21 PM
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i recently made a post about how good my truck is after 130K od beating on... why mess with perfection? id definately buy another ranger whether its redesigned or not
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 09:33 PM
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I agree with pretty much everything here.

Don't change it if it works. Like with the Panther platform--the Crown Vic clones--you get quite a bit for the dollar and realiability.

I really don't want to see a redesign, but don't call the 06 look anything more than a tweaking, much less an update, Ford.

Glad they brought back the I4 SuperCabs. I railed about that long enough.
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 10:31 PM
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I was shocked that my outdated even then (2004) Edge rode better and seemed more refined than the new imports I drove. Frontier, Tocoma etc... They were maybe nicer cosmetically, but the Ranger drive train just felt good.

The 5 speed auto and the 4.0 V6 is a blast...
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 10:59 PM
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The Ford Ranger is the perfect size. I have had 4 Rangers, and 3 Mazdas. My current ride is a 2002 Mazda 2.3 auto trans, full power, and I love this truck. I have always liked the Ranger platform. Very strong little truck. All the major manufacturers are making their small trucks bigger. Only Ford is keeping their truck a true compact. If I want a bigger truck, I will buy a full size truck. Bigger is not always better. I see these 4 door trucks with tiny beds, and wonder what they can carry. Remember the first 4 door Frontier truck with the 4 foot bed. Now there was brain storm. You can really carry alot with a 4 foot bed. The Ranger rules
Ed G
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 11:17 PM
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I too believe Ford should not change what has already been perfected. The Ranger combines style and functionality like no other.

Ford, if you're listening, PLEASE DON'T REDESIGN THE RANGER! There's no need to spend money on a huge ad compaign showing a truck getting smashed by a meteor (which proves nothing), or "feminize" it all up with silly fender curves and goofy paint colors. Let the Ranger be America's Hilux.
 
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Old Nov 19, 2005 | 02:59 PM
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Originally Posted by edgl
Only Ford is keeping their truck a true compact. If I want a bigger truck, I will buy a full size truck. Bigger is not always better. Ed G
Very true! The Nissan used to be a great little 4 banger.

The new version gets MPG that rival a F150 V8.
 
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Old Nov 19, 2005 | 03:10 PM
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Originally Posted by rangerman9000
Ford, if you're listening, PLEASE DON'T REDESIGN THE RANGER!
They probably will though anyways to cut mfg costs and to compete with others. How does Ranger sales compare to sales of other vehicles? If Ford is losing mkt share that might be incentive again for them to change it. After all, the original poster had the question planted in his head by the media. Likely there are a lot of other prospective buyers out there being told the same thing by the competition's sales people.
 
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Old Nov 20, 2005 | 12:32 AM
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I think they went too far with th 2006. I really dont like the changes they made. The grill, tailgate, and in 2005 when they changed the gauges seats and steering wheel. I think they need to spend the money putting in a 4.6 or a 5.4 with a 6 speed manual. The day ford does the V8 ranger with a 6-speed, i'm in line at the dealer waiting for my new truck.
 
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