Ranger Level 3 Off-Road Package Proves Quite Appealing

Trail Dominator

Ford has been on a mission lately to introduce as many off-road focused vehicles as possible. It makes a lot of sense, given the incredible popularity these types of trucks and SUVs enjoy today. And while the new Ranger Tremor package is sure to draw the bulk of attention, we shouldn't overlook another option The Blue Oval offers to transform a regular Ranger into a trail-dominating beast - the Level 3 Off-Road Package.

Photos: Ford

Right Tool

Car & Driver found this out recently when they tested a Level 3-equipped Ranger out in the Mojave Desert. Torrential rain and wind had transformed the trails into even tougher terrain to cross than normal, but luckily, they brought the right tool for the job.

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Added Equipment

The Level 3 package adds a two-inch lift for the front suspension, stiffer springs, Fox shocks, unique dark gray wheels, 32-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires, a beefy winch-capable front bumper, a Ford Performance chase rack in the bed, a Rigid 40-inch LED light bar, and a Ford Performance exhaust. 

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

More Capable

Add it all up, and you've got one seriously capable Ranger. C&D found that out quickly, as the Ranger was able to climb some pretty steep grades, even in two-wheel-drive with the rear end locked. The additional ground clearance made it quite easy to navigate steep terrain as well.

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Thoughtful Design

The giant front bumper, which weighs a full 20 pounds more than the stock piece, also helps in that department thanks to its angled corners designed to give the front tires more room to move. There are also a series of skid plates underneath the truck to protect drivetrain components from the rocky terrain it might roll over.

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

More Power

While it's capable on the rocks, the Ranger Level 3 package truly shines in the sand. There, its quick steering makes high-speed sliding quite effortless, and its extra power added to the fun quotient, too. With a recalibration, Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost pumps out 315 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque.

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Many Benefits

Overall, the Level 3 package proved quite capable, and its not a bad value at $8,995. The best thing is, buyers can retain their factory warranty by sticking with Ford's upgrades instead of going rogue, too. And if you want to save a few bucks, all of this kit can be installed by the average shade tree mechanic over the course of a weekend.

Photos: Ford

>>Join the conversation about the Level 3 offroad Ranger right here in Ford-trucks.com.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.