The 2023 Ford Ranger manages to once again be a great option in the midsize pickup truck segment. In a market that features other popular pickups, such as the Toyota Tacoma and the Chevy Colorado, the Ranger has built a reputation for no-nonsense performance at an affordable price. The latest edition has been designed to provide reliability and innovation in both its engineering and technology. As a member of Ford’s legendary lineup of trucks, the Ranger fits in with a work-hard-and-play-hard mentality that doesn’t ignore the importance of style.
The three trims of the 2023 Ranger are each designed to fit different needs, but all feature a beefed-up look that makes it obvious that this truck is ready to be put to work, not just look great. Ford has also included standard and optional tech features that make the 2023 Ranger efficient, safe, and fun. This is how the Ranger is able to retain loyal drivers and entice new ones. The appeal of this midsize truck isn’t difficult to understand. The Ranger is useful as a daily driver, long-distance traveler, or off-road companion. With a good combination of trims and options, the Ranger manages to hit all of the marks for midsize pickups.
When Reliability Meets Innovation
The 2023 edition of the Ford Ranger is available in XL, XLT, and Lariat trims. Each has particular design and performance features that might be a perfect fit if you’re looking for a versatile midsize pickup. All three trims come equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission designed to shift smoothly and supply maximum power from the standard 2.3L EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged power plant clocks in at 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough power to help you move around or to move a few things around.
When it comes to moving things around or handling the elements, Ford has deployed its Terrain Management System. This optional feature is designed to optimize performance based on the conditions at hand. There are four driver-selectable modes––Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, and Sand––allowing the truck to handle a variety of conditions by making adjustments to the powertrain. While this feature directly marries powertrain performance with technological innovation, it’s not the only place where the 2023 Ranger presents technology designed to make life easier or the Ranger more efficient.
Ford continues to control its infotainment with the SYNC 3 system. This puts you in control with an available eight-inch touchscreen or voice commands. The optional FordPass App adds a nice touch that allows you more control of your Ranger at a greater distance. The FordPass App will allow you to interact with your vehicle from your Apple or Android device or access your vehicle maintenance records when needed. For example, the FordPass App allows users to connect and then lock or unlock their vehicles. Additionally, remote start can be accessed from the FordPass App.
One optional feature that really shines is Ford Co-Pilot360. This feature is designed to increase the safety of drivers and passengers in a variety of ways. The Blind Spot Information System gives you extra peace of mind when it comes to recognizing hazards in your blind spots when trying to merge or change lanes. In a similar vein, the Lane-Keeping System makes steering adjustments to keep you safely in between the lines. In serious emergencies, there is the valuable Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. This feature utilizes advanced sensors to detect vehicles and pedestrians in your path and avoid accidents. By staying true to its commitment to usefulness and practicality, the 2023 Ranger manages to deliver on key performance metrics while also making several exciting tech features available.
Style and Substance
The design of the 2023 Ford Ranger comes across as stylish and smooth yet incredibly durable. Design-wise, what the Ranger aims to be, it fully accomplishes. It’s suitable for off-road adventures, date night, and daily driving. Each trim of the 2023 Ranger is available in a SuperCab or SuperCrew configuration. The latter features four full doors and seating for five. You also have the option of choosing a five-foot or six-foot bed. The hood design features twin domes to present the appearance of a truck with more than a little bit of muscle.
When it comes to interior design, the Ranger takes its job seriously. Anyone buying a truck as versatile as the Ranger likely expects to spend a decent amount of time in the vehicle. With 39.8 inches of headroom and 43.1 inches of legroom, there’s certainly enough space for comfort up front. However, if you plan to carry backseat passengers on a regular basis, you will want to spring for the SuperCrew cab, as it provides an extra 2.4 inches of headroom and 4.1 inches of legroom in the back.
Ford has also made several packages available that add extra features or enhance the look of the Ranger. At the top of the list is the Tremor Off-Road Package. The Tremor gives a bit more of an imposing look with skid and bash plates, tow hooks, and more. Alternatively, the STX Special Edition Appearance Package features some of the Ranger’s best interior and exterior features. It includes premium cloth Ebony seats, fog lamps, 17-inch aluminum wheels, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-inch touchscreen front and center.
Built for Anywhere and Everywhere
One thing is certain about the 2023 Ranger, it has not forgotten how to be a pickup truck. The Ford Ranger is one hundred percent a truck suitable for off-road work or play. The Trailer Tow Package has a towing capacity of 7,500 lbs and includes a Class IV hitch and 4/7 pin connector. The Tremor Off-Road Package also offers more than its well-designed looks. The Tremor features the aforementioned Terrain Management System that allows your Ranger to handle nearly any road conditions. It also features Ford Trail Control. This feature functions like cruise control for the trail, allowing you to set your speed so you can focus on tackling obstacles in your path.
To offer even more off-road options. Ford allows the Ranger to be customized with Performance Parts Packages. These packages come in three levels and add features designed to make off-roading safer and more enjoyable. Level 1 equips the 2023 Ranger with an off-road suspension leveling kit and unique graphics. Level 2 adds blue tow hooks, an off-road fog light kit, and a performance calibration. Level 3, obviously not to be outdone, includes all aspects from the first two levels plus more. This level features a chase rack, heavy-duty front bumper, and a Ford Performance exhaust system. With these three levels, Ford has added even more off-road customization options for the Ranger.
The Quintessential Midsize Truck
The 2023 Ford Ranger is arguably the quintessential midsize pickup. With a standard turbocharged engine that’s supremely reliable and plenty of packages available for off-roading, one thing owners won’t lack is confidence in their vehicle. When it’s time to make an emergency trip, the Ranger is going to provide the power needed to get where you’re going while also offering the comfort you desire. If it’s time to haul a trailer across town, then the available tow packages are going to get the job done. No matter how many different types of activities your lifestyle involves, the 2023 Ford Ranger is equipped to be a pickup that serves you well.
