It’s Back and its Sharp!
By Charles Donaldson
History lesson – The Ford Ranger was first sold back in 1983 and had a long 35-year run before being retired in the United States. It still survived in markets in other countries but not here at home – until its rebirth this year. Since, what has been resurrected is a greatly-improved midsize pickup that has little relationship with its past brother. Truck lovers have been asking for and looking forward to its long-awaited return.
The All-New 2019 Ford Ranger is recognizable as the Ranger, yet modernized, bold, larger, and strikingly masculine. What it is not, is a miniature version of the F-150, a cheap pickup, or a copy of its competitors. It is designed to stand out as a rugged and capable pickup loaded with power and techy features.
Pricing and Trims
The 2019 Ford Ranger is available in two body styles: SuperCab and SuperCrew. Both are obtainable in three trim levels: XL, XLT, and Lariat. This article focuses on my test vehicle which was the SuperCrew and is priced as follows: XL 2WD ($27,615) and 4WD ($31,436), XLT 2WD ($31,210) and 4WD ($35,210), and Lariat 2WD ($35,480) and 4WD ($39,480).
What’s new for 2019?
In comparison to its previous model back in 2011 when the Ranger languished as a fleet vehicle during its final years, well…how about everything? The old Ranger felt like a light version of a pickup whereas the all-new 2019 Ranger feels competitive to a full-size pickup in power, packaging, and valiant design.
Interior Highpoints
The 2019 Ranger’s cabin is handsome and organized with properly-placed driver-assist technologies to enable easier driving both on and off-road. Technology starts with a touch screen for available SYNC® 3, while a single or dual LCD-productivity screen is available for real-time vehicle, navigation and audio information. I should share that my test vehicle was the top of the line Lariat 4x4. The seats in my Ranger were dual-bucket heated seats with leather trim. The Base XL and XLT trims are equipped with a small 4.2-inch radio screen whereas the Lariat has an 8-inch touch screen that is optional on the XLT. Interior color options are black and tan. The second-row seats had adequate room with two USB outlets and an AC 110V with our Lariat packaging.
Exterior Highlights
The Ranger body has an athletic appearance and features a front facia similar to the Ford Edge crossover that lie in-between headlights lined with LED lights. The dual color bumper adds to the graphic design of the front end. The Ranger sits high with a 5-foot bed and front-hinged rear doors. The bed has six interior tie-downs and a spray-in bedliner is available as an option. The doors are carved with a deep cut that creates a visual gift and unique expression.
Performance Specs
The 2019 Ford Ranger is anchored by a high-strength steel frame and powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® that generates the power of a 6-cylinder with 270 horsepower and is paired to an efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. The payload tops out at 1,560 lbs. for the SuperCrew and has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs., which Ford claims is the best-in-class. The 2019 Ranger is comfortable and maneuverable with an impressive turning radius and responsive steering.
Cool Features:
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Digital Dash
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Multiple USB outlets
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Ford Co-Pilot-360™ - Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind
Spot Info System, Pre-
Collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert
Collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert
·
Auto Start-Stop Technology
Safety & Integrity
The 2019 Ford Ranger safety features include Ford Co-Pilot-360™ - Lane-Keeping System, Auto High Beams, Blind Spot Info System, Pre-collision Assist, and Cross-Traffic Alert, Perimeter Anti-theft Alarm, Rear View Camera, Keyless Entry Keypad, Airbags: Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Safety Canopy® side-curtain airbags, Reflector, Wiper-Activated Headlamps, and Forward Collision Warning, Dynamic Brake Support. Some items are optional for a fee.
In Summary – The 2019 Ford Ranger SuperCrew is a newly-enhanced version of the older brother with a new powerful and attractive presence. You have the power of 6-cylinders with the fuel economy of a 4- cylinder. The interior is well-presented and engaged. The Ranger is poised to be an essential part of Ford’s truck growth here and abroad. If you are looking for a midsize pickup, the Ranger could meet all of your requirements. Check it out!
Specifications
2019 Ford Ranger Lariat SuperCrew 4WD
Base price:
|
$38,385 as
driven: $44,855 (including destination & optional features)
|
Engine:
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2.3-Liter EcoBoost Turbo 4-cylinder
|
Horsepower:
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270 hp @ 5500 RPM
|
Torque:
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310 lb.-ft. @ 3000 RPM
|
Transmission:
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10-speed automatic
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Drive:
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Four-Wheel Drive
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Seating:
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5-passenger
|
Cargo
space:
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43.3 to 51.8 cubic feet
|
Curb
weight:
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4,354 pounds
|
EPA
mileage:
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City 21/Hwy 26/Comb
23 MPG
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Fuel Capacity:
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18 gallons
|
Max Towing:
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7500 lb.
|
Wheelbase:
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126.8 inches
|
Warranty:
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3 years/36,000-miles
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Also consider:
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Chevrolet
Colorado, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma
|
