It’s time for the smaller trucks to shine, like the 2023 Ford Ranger. It’s back with a brand new look that has Ford Maverick vibes. It’s pretty cute to have these trucks wear matching headlights and grilles, but the Ford Ranger upgrades go far beyond looks. 

The 2023 Ford Ranger has crucial upgrades 

We’re excited to share that the 2023 Ford Ranger solves a few issues that could be considered drawbacks with the previous generation. The upgrades include a new front-end style that provides a more confident look. It also matched the larger Ford F-150 and smaller Ford Maverick. 

It uses the same 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. It could gain a hybrid variant later. Plus, it has suspension upgrades, enhanced tech, a new interior design, and the Ranger Raptor is on the way. 

1. The 2023 Ranger should have a better ride 

One of the biggest complaints about the last Ford Ranger generation involved its ride. It was pretty rough and unsettled. A passenger from Edmunds even got car sick while testing a 2021 model. 

But the 2023 Ford Ranger rides on a modified platform from the previous generation. It’s about two inches wider and longer. Plus, it’s better balanced, and The rear dampers were mounted outboard the frame. This should provide a much smoother ride. It also improves the approach angle, off-road articulation, and cooling. 

2. The Ranger has a better interior 

The Ford Ranger has a reputation for not having the best interior. The materials seemed a little dated and cheap. However, the front seats are noted for being large and well-padded. Now the cheap plastics have been replaced. 

You’ll notice that the 2023 Ford Ranger incorporates a more upscale feeling. While you can still see some plastics, the layout includes more soft-touch materials and leather-wrapped surfaces. It looks more comfortable yet durable and easy to clean. 

Storage used to be an issue, but the 2023 model provides various storage solutions. There is a hidden glovebox, large door pocket cubbies, and storage located under the rear seat. Storing items under the rear seat used to be a bit of a challenge. 

3. The new Ford Ranger got better tech 

Tech in the old Ford Ranger was adequate. The base model has a four-speaker AM/FM radio, but you could upgrade to an 8.0-inch touchscreen. The controls were grouped closely together and were too small. 

Now the 2023 Ford Ranger includes a standard 10.1-inch infotainment display across the entire lineup. You can upgrade to the massive vertically-oriented 12.1-inch screen. The Ford Sync 4 software provides access to multiple controls, including the new zone-lighting feature to light up a job site. 

We’re still waiting to learn more about the Ranger that’s coming to America. It’s safe to expect wireless Apple Carplay, Android Auto, built-in navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Bang & Olufsen stereo system. 

We like what we have seen so far. We should learn more about the Ranger that’s coming to America soon. Pricing is expected to begin at around $27,000, and new models should be available by the Spring of 2022.