There’s a lot to like about the 2021 Ford Ranger. It’s a midsize pickup that boasts both an affordable price tag and a long list of features. Not to mention, a best-in-class payload rating. But those aren’t the only reasons that the new Ford Ranger deserves your attention.

How much does a 2021 Ford Ranger cost?

If you’re in the market for an affordable pickup, you’ll be pleased to know that the 2021 Ford Ranger boasts a base price of $24,820. That base price gets you some sweet standard features too, including FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot. Also available on the base model Ranger are features like dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system, and voice activated navigation.

For added features such as satellite radio, premium cloth seating, and more, consider upgrading to the Ford Ranger XLT. Starting at $28,870, the Ford Ranger XLT is more expensive than the base model Ranger but will still have you spending less than $30,000. For many pickup shoppers, that’s more than affordable.

And if it’s a range-topping Ford Ranger that you’re after? Be prepared to spend approximately $32,910 on the Ford Ranger Lariat. While this particular trim level may not be the most affordable for some pickup shoppers, it does add sought-after features like leather-trimmed front bucket seats, an eight-inch touchscreen display with SYNC 3, and push-button start.

Is the 2021 Ford Ranger considered a good truck?

The good news is that while Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Ford Ranger a four out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating, this affordable pickup didn’t earn the best predicted reliability rating. In fact, Consumer Reports only gave this year’s model a two out of five predicted reliability rating. That being said, Repair Pal did give it a slightly better rating. 

According to Repair Pal, this year’s model earned a four out of five reliability rating. Repair Pal added that the average annual repair cost for the Ford Ranger is $615, which is fairly average in terms of ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average too and the frequency is so low that, according to Repair Pal, major repairs are uncommon for the Ranger.

But ownership costs and reliability aside, is the 2021 Ford Ranger considered a good truck? With its affordable price tag, you might expect this year’s model to make some compromises in the way of towing and off-road capabilities. Fortunately, that’s not true of the 2021 Ford Ranger at all. Instead, this affordable pickup is more than capable of both towing and taking on the trails.

When properly equipped, you can count on the 2021 Ford Ranger to tow up to 7,500-pounds. This year’s model also boasts a best-in-class payload capacity of 1,860-pounds. Opt for a Ranger equipped with the Tremor Off-Road package, and you can expect this year’s Ranger to take on the trails with absolute ease. 

How the 2021 Ford Ranger stacks up to the Toyota Tacoma

If you’re considering the 2021 Ford Ranger, this year’s Tacoma might also be on your list. Much like the Ranger, this year’s new Toyota Tacoma boasts a reasonable base price that won’t have you breaking the bank anytime soon. Starting at $26,250, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is only slightly more expensive than the Ranger. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Ranger has the edge when it comes to towing too. While the Ranger can tow up to 7,500-pounds, the Tacoma is only able to pull 6,800-pounds.

Does this affordable pickup deserve a spot in your driveway?

There’s no denying that the 2021 Ford Ranger has a lot to offer, especially considering it’s affordable price tag. But to find out if this affordable pickup deserves a spot in your driveway? Well, that’s going to take a test drive.