Considering taking home a new midsize or compact pickup truck? The 2023 Ford Ranger is a popular model in the segment. Anyone searching for something smaller in size than a full-size pickup will likely turn to the Ranger since it’s the downsized version of America’s most popular truck. However, choosing the perfect trim level in the lineup can be challenging. One reason the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT trim is superior to the rest of the lineup is optional packages.

Why is the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT the superior trim?

The only reason the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT is superior to other trims is because of the optional packages. While most models in the lineup are well-equipped, customization for the XLT is excellent. Choosing the mid-tier model only adds a few standard features to the Ranger, but its value comes from its options. For example, upgrading from the XL base model to the XLT trim only adds 17-inch alloy wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, with it, customers unlock access to three exclusive packages.

They are the 301A, 302A, and Technology packages. With them, owners get immense value for a lower price than the range-topping Lariat costs. Additionally, it’s better to be able to pick and choose which features and amenities to pay for instead of automatically getting the ones included with the top trim. According to Ford, the 301A package costs $1,670 and the 302A even more at $2,450. Finally, the Technology package is $995, by far the cheapest of the bunch.

What are the optional packages?

Pricing and packages are all good, but what do they add to the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT? According to Edmunds, the 301A package adds a few exceptional convenience items. For example, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 110-volt power outlet, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and your choice of Sport, Chrome, or Black exterior appearance package.

Next, the 302A package makes a few more things more convenient in your Ranger. Standard within it are remote engine ignition, power-folding/heated mirrors, a manual-sliding rear window, and power-adjustable/heated front seats.

Lastly, the Technology package is more focused on, well, you guessed it, technology. It adds front parking sensors, navigation, and adaptive cruise control. We think this package, in particular, is reasonably priced for the value it adds. The other options are a little more costly, making the value seem a bit lacking.

How much is a 2023 Ford Ranger XLT?

Using the automaker’s build tool on its website, the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT costs $33,600. However, adding the value-filled optional packages make it a little more costly. With the 302A and Technology packages equipped, the Ranger XLT costs $37,045. Swapping the 302A for the 301A lowers the price to $35,765. Both of these options are more affordable than the fully-loaded Lariat model, which starts just below the $38,000 mark.

The Lariat trim is similar to the XLT model in that it only offers a few new standard features but has some optional packages. The 501A package adds the Technology package, remote ignition, automatic wipers, a digital information display, a 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system, and a universal garage door opener. Adding it costs $2,005, and we don’t think it provides the value available with the XLT trim overall.

Why the Ranger XLT is superior

In conclusion, the 2023 Ford Ranger XLT trim is superior to other models because of the optional packages. Although it doesn’t come with many standard features, it has three excellent packages available to it. None of them are purchasable for the XL base model, and the same features cost more for the Lariat trim. For these reasons, it’s better to pick and choose the options you want with the XLT trim instead of paying more for less.