Ford has a proven history of producing vehicles ready to conquer the road, and the 2023 Ford Ranger is no exception. With impressive towing capabilities and a cab large enough to seat five, the 2023 Ford Ranger offers endless possibilities. With three trim options and a whole slew of optional packages, which vehicle is right for you?
Trim guides are fantastic for breaking down what’s available on each trim level, but let’s take it a step further and explore what features are right for who. Are you a family of adventurers seeking the road less traveled? Maybe you’re a family of four who spends your weekends running errands and attending soccer games. Perhaps you’re a lone wolf, spending your nights exploring the wilds of America. Whoever you are and whatever path you choose, there is a 2023 Ford Ranger equipped with the right stuff to take you there.
The Single Rider
When it’s just you and the open road, there isn’t much you need beyond some good music and maybe a furry companion. If this is you, the 2023 Ford Ranger XL Super Cab 4×2 is for you. The Ranger at its finest, the XL Super Cab 4×2 comes standard with rear-wheel drive. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine gets an estimated 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, meaning fewer stops while cruising down the open road. With 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, the XL has sufficient power for towing.
The XL comes standard with cloth bucket seats, but for those with furry companions, the optional vinyl bucket seats would be the way to go for easier cleaning and maintenance. The available Perimeter Anti-Theft Alarm system would be another recommended add to get the most protection for your investment, especially if you’re traveling solo.
Equipped with the towing package and proper configuration, all trims are capable of towing up to 7,500 lbs. The included Trailer Sway Control will help keep you running straight and smooth. With the Super Cab, you get a six-foot cargo box and seating for four. If you’re in need of more cabin space, consider the Super Crew, with a five-foot cargo box and enough room for five in the cab.
FordPass Connect offers personal Wi-Fi, while a Smart-Charging USB port provides convenience to charge and use your devices. Since you’re going the road alone, safety is vital, which is why Ford 911 Assist and Post-Crash Alert System comes standard to act as your co-pilot, calling for help when you need it in an emergency and providing assistance by alerting authorities to your location and turning on the hazards. You’ll never feel alone in an emergency with Ford at your back.
The Lone Wolf Adventurer
As a lone wolf, your solo adventures take you off the main road and into the unknown. The 2023 Ford Ranger is a great companion, especially if it’s equipped with the right stuff. The XLT Super Crew 4×4 trim with the Tremor Off-Road package is the way to go. The 4×4 provides additional traction and off-road abilities for the ultimate explorer.
With the Tremor Off-Road package, an Electronic-Locking Rear Differential locks the rear axle for added traction to conquer adverse terrain, making tackling mud, rain, and rock easier and safer. Another added feature of the Tremor package is Ford Trail Control, which uses special technology to control the vehicle’s speed and braking to maintain a driver-designated speed limit no matter what the terrain is like. With the vehicle taking control of the acceleration and braking, the driver can focus on navigating the path ahead.
Another great off-roading feature included in the Tremor package is the Terrain Management System. The technology offers four drive modes that will change how the Ranger drives based on the terrain. Add in more ground clearance and some skid plates, and there isn’t much the Ranger can’t do.
A power-locking tailgate provides easier loading and unloading and comes standard with the XLT. Tow hooks in the front come standard, with rear tow hooks as part of the Tremor package. Additional under-seat storage provides ample space for tools, equipment, and more.
The XLT has two screens for infotainment and vehicle stats. There is a 4.2-inch color productivity screen in the instrument cluster and an eight-inch touchscreen in the center console. An included 110V AC power outlet provides you the conveniences of home while off-road.
The Family Experience
Not everyone wants to explore the rugged wilderness. Sometimes an occasional weekend camping trip is more than enough. Plus, when you are a busy family, even minor comfort makes a difference. That’s why The Lariat trim is the way to go. Power folding side mirrors make driving and parking simple, while the push-button start adds convenience.
The included Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, which comes standard on the XLT and the Lariat, is ideal for larger families to keep the peace. With the Lariat, get the upgraded leather-trimmed seats and wrapped steering wheel, which are more than a nice touch that elevates the Ranger’s interior. The leather also holds up well to wear and tear, and with a family of four, that’s a great bonus.
The full suite of safety and convenience technologies included in the Ford Co-Pilot360 will keep you and your precious cargo safer than ever. With features like Blind Spot Information System and Pre-Collision Assist, there’s less to worry about while on the road. Plus, with the features included in the previous trim, like the SOS Post-Crash Alert System, outside help is just a call away.
For a more customized experience, the Technology package is a great addition. Adding navigation, parking sensors in the front, and Adaptive Cruise Control, get the convenience of on-demand directions and more. For those who want to experience the excitement of the great outdoors without going too far off the path, the FX2 package is ideal. With larger off-road tires, special off-road suspension for taking on rough terrain, and a locking-rear differential, there is just enough to make trailing and exploration comfortable and safe.
Options, Options, and More Options
It may be difficult enough to choose between the Super Cab and the Super Crew or to pick just one trim, but what about the appearance packages that make the Ranger truly one of a kind? Choose between the Black Appearance Package, the Sport Appearance Package, the Chrome Appearance Package, the STX Special Edition Appearance Package, and the STX Appearance Package. Unfortunately, there is no saying what package is right for who, as style is so unique, you will just have to see which one makes the Ranger completely and individually you.
Ford has managed to pack a lot of options into the new Ranger, making it ideal for many and great for everyone. Adding optional packages and the choice of cabin capacities and bed length offers a full range of options to make the Ford Ranger a fully customized experience. It doesn’t matter if you’re one or many; the Ranger fits everyone.
Affordability makes it possible to add your desired packages. Choose a package for improved off-roading capabilities or even for aesthetics with options like the Black Appearance Package. The sky, or should we say, the road, is the limit, and with the new 2023 Ford Ranger finally within grasp, there’s no stopping you.
