They make look the same, but that isn't really the case.
Same, but Different
When the Ford Ranger exited North America back in 2011/2012, many assumed that it went away altogether. However, that wasn't the case at all, as the long-running model transformed into a mid-size pickup and remains on sale across the globe - as well as in the U.S. after making its return for the 2019 model year. But while they may look essentially identical, there are some notable differences between these pickups, as The Fast Lane Truck recently pointed out.
Styling Differences
On the outside, the American and global market Rangers certainly look identical, but there are a few key differences worth pointing out. Perhaps the most notable one is the fact that the international pickup comes equipped with steel bumpers, while the American version has a more tightly gapped front fascia with more of an integrated look.
Beefed Up
The U.S. spec Ranger also features a reinforced frame to accommodate a two-inch hitch receiver and increase rigidity, as well as different frame rails to accommodate American crash testing standards.
Suspension Updates
In terms of mechanicals, the U.S. Ranger utilizes some different components underneath, including a Dana Advantek M220 beam axle and rear leaf springs, along with unique tuning to suit the tastes of the American truck shopper.
Powerplants
The biggest difference between these Rangers, however, is what powers them - while the N/A pickup is only available with the turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4, the international variant gets a bevy of options including 2.5-liter Duratec and a host of diesels such as the 2.2-liter Duratorq I-4, a 3.2-liter Duratorq I-5, and the 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbodiesel.
Capability
Those options mean that international Ranger buyers get more capability as well. The American version offers up to 1,400 pounds of max payload capacity, which is quite a bit lower than the Euro-spec pickup in its diesel configurations, though both have similar towing capacities of up to around 7,500 pounds, depending on spec.
Worldwide Appeal
This trend of building the same truck for many different kinds of customers will continue when the next-generation Ranger debuts in America this summer for the 2024 model year, though it has already launched in many international markets. While they may look a lot alike, the different versions of the Ranger will continue to be tweaked for their specific market, which is part of the reason why it continues to enjoy worldwide appeal.
>>Join the conversation about the US Ranger vs. the global version right here in the forum.
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