The 2023 Ford Ranger is coming. The Ranger may no longer be the Blue Oval’s smallest truck, but it’s still an important part of its lineup. Is the 2023 Ford Ranger any good off-road?

The 2023 Ford Ranger is ready to hit the trail

Off-roading has become one of the most popular automotive hobbies in America in recent years. Nearly two years into the global pandemic, Americans are yearning to reconnect with nature in new ways. Off-roading is an act that allows drivers to experience the great outdoors in all its glory by overcoming natural obstacles.

Off-roading allows drivers to get unique views of nature and see sights that few will ever get to see. Since off-roading has become so popular recently, several automakers have introduced off-road trims to meet the demand for capable vehicles. The Ford Ranger has always had decent off-roading chops, but the 2023 model year focuses on the mid-size pickup’s off-roading prowess even more.

According to MotorTrend, the 2023 Ford Ranger rides on a modified platform. The new platform is slightly longer and wider than the 2022 model year’s platform. This new platform is better for off-roading because it offers an improved approach angle to conquer steep obstacles.

The 2023 Ford Ranger also features off-road modes that can be accessed via the mid-size truck’s new touchscreen. Between the Ranger’s new, improved approach angle and off-road features, the Ford truck has increased off-roading ability. Is the Ford Ranger the best off-road mid-size pickup truck? Not by a long shot. That being said, the Blue Oval is clearly paying attention to what consumers want.

What’s new on the 2023 Ford Ranger?

The 2023 Ford Ranger’s redesign is a noticeable progression from the previous model year. The new Ranger looks eerily similar to the Ford Maverick. Though the exterior clearly is an update, the Ranger’s new interior is where the real magic happens. The Blue Oval brought the Ranger into the future using some of its latest technology and giving it a new interior design that is much more modern.

The new Ranger’s interior features either a 10.1-inch or 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The mid-size truck has ditched physical buttons in favor of touchscreen buttons. Though Ford hasn’t revealed many details on the Ranger’s new cabin, the company promises that it will utilize space in a way that is more convenient for drivers.

Should you buy a Ford Ranger?

The 2023 Ford Ranger’s official price has yet to be released. It is likely to start at around $26,000. The new Ford Ranger features an updated exterior as well as a new cabin with more modern tech. The new Ranger even has more off-roading prowess.

The Ford Ranger is one of the most affordable mid-size pickup trucks on the market. It will feature the same standard 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder engine to make 270 horsepower. If you’re looking for an affordable mid-size pickup with enough power to be entertaining, the 2023 Ford Ranger will offer amazing value. The Ranger still pales in comparison to more expensive mid-size trucks like the Jeep Gladiator and Honda Ridgeline.