The Ford Ranger Returns

If you’re looking for a no-hassle experience and competitive pricing, you’re in the right place. At Kings Ford, you’ll find we are dedicated to providing a positive car-buying experience. We have a diverse inventory and pride ourselves on our customer service. If you happen to be looking for used Fords for sale, or any other brand, we’re here to help and guide you through the process. We know how intimidating it can be to buy a car. You want to know you are making the right decision and that’s why we’re here.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at one vehicle in particular—the Ford Ranger. We’ve been getting a lot of questions about the Ranger recently as it’s starting to show up on the used truck market. This isn’t the Ranger you might remember. It’s grown up, you could say. The chassis is closer to a full-size truck, and it really makes for a great option if you are looking at a full-size truck but don’t need to max-out on towing and payload capacity, or are just looking for a weekend-warrior to have fun with. So let’s see if the Ford Ranger might be a good fit for your lifestyle and needs.

After taking an 8-year break from the States, the Ford Ranger came back in 2019. And it came back better than ever. It looks like Ford really put some thought into what consumers want from a truck. Because the Ranger seems to have it all, not only can it handle the payload of a full-size truck (1,860 lbs), but it is an off-road beast as well. That’s the best-in-class payload, by the way.

You won’t find another midsize truck that can handle that kind of load. We’ve all been to the rock yard and winced when the front loader drops a load of rocks into a midsize truck—well, with the Ranger, you can feel free to get in line because it can handle as much as a full-size truck.

Powertrain

The Ranger makes it easy on us in deciding on which engine to choose. There’s only one option, and it’s a good one. This is one of the best engines you’ll find in the midsize truck segment. The 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which gives it the perfect blend of power and fuel economy. Even the four-wheel drive option gets 20/24 mpg while being able to tow up to 7,500 lb. We doubt the Toyota Tacoma can make similar claims.

For the rear-wheel drive models, you can expect to get 21/26 mpg. This is great gas mileage in a truck that can compete with full-size trucks. This isn’t the F-150’s little brother anymore—the Ranger is carving out its own identity.

What’s really impressive about the turbocharged engine is how quick it is. You will be surprised at the acceleration and passing power. Compared to its rival V6 engines, the 2.3-liter engine is nearly even in horsepower while easily passing all rivals in torque.

Similar to other newer vehicles, the Ford Ranger employs a start/stop system that cuts power to the engine when not in use, when idling at a stoplight, for instance. This happens automatically to conserve gas, but can also be disabled if you don’t like having the engine starting/stopping on its own. Even though it’s a turbocharged engine, it still runs on regular unleaded gasoline.

When you’re looking for a used, recent-generation Ranger, now you know that you’re going to get a solid engine. The more recently built Rangers come with the same engine, and it’s one of the better ones in the midsize segment.

Off-Road Ready

If you’re wondering if the Ranger is up for off-roading, just consider that Ford calls the front skid plate the “bash plate.” So, yes, the Ranger is built to climb mountains. If you add the FX4 package, you’ll be adding off-road tires, a locking rear differential, skid plates, tow hooks, Trail Control, and the Terrain Management System, which allows you to tailor the throttle and transmission response to several different environments including mud, snow, ruts, and sand.

Standard Features

The Ford Ranger comes in three trim levels, the XL, XLT, and Lariat. With the XL trim, you get power windows, 16-inch wheels, and automatic headlights, as well as a 4-speaker AM/FM stereo system with a 3.5-inch screen. The Ranger also comes standard with a pre-collision warning system that can detect cars and pedestrians in front of the vehicle and brake on its own to prevent a collision. So now you know when you’re looking at used Rangers that they will all have these features.

We recommend keeping an eye out for the XLT model, which adds the Co-Pilot360 safety system with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and trailer-tow monitoring. You’ll also find front and rear parking sensors, a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, and an enhanced infotainment system, and 17-inch wheels.

Other features to look out for, which are included in the Lariat trim, are leather interior, power-adjustable front seats with heating, the Sync 3 infotainment system with 8-inch touch screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, push-button start, LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, and, of course, the FX4 package mentioned earlier.

SuperCab or SuperCrew?

One of the hardest parts of looking for a used truck is deciding which cab option best fits your needs. We’re to help with that decision. If you are looking to use the truck for the occasional carpool or if the truck will need to sometimes be the family vehicle, then we would suggest the SuperCrew model. With the SuperCrew, you’ll have seating for 5 people and plenty of room for friends and family. There’s enough legroom for everyone to be comfortable, and they will even have their own door to get in and out.

There’s also a rear armrest for added comfort.

If you’re looking for more of a work truck, we would recommend the SuperCab model. The rear seats are tighter but can work in a pinch if you need to take family or friends around town. This is a great option if you will not have to use the truck to regularly take people around town because you will still have the option but will not have to pay the premium for the crew cab.

Try One Out for Yourself

Don’t take our word for it, come on down to Kings Ford and try one out for yourself! We have one of the best selections of used cars in Cincinnati, OH, and are here to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. We’ve long been the premier Ford dealership in Cincinnati, and our expert team is here to answer any questions you might have and guide you every step of the way to get you on the road in the vehicle of your dreams.

You won’t be disappointed with our competitive pricing and financing options. We’re here to work with your budget and find a vehicle that makes sense for you. Be sure to check with us about any incentives and rebates—we’re always looking to find you the best deal. And our financial experts are dedicated to finding you the best financing options even if you have less-than-great credit.