In terms of finding a midsize truck for under $20,0000, the Ford Ranger can actually be a pretty decent option. Ford’s small truck has been around for some time. And that means that there are a variety of models to choose from. A used Ranger under $20,000 can range from older vehicles to some newer models. Making it a midsize pickup worthy of consideration.

Is the Ford Ranger a good truck?

Over the years, the Ford Ranger has been considered a solid vehicle. It’s been around since the 1980s, so there are certainly some models out there to avoid. But with proper research, you can likely find a used Ranger that has plenty of life left in it. 

The 2011 Ford Ranger is considered to be one of the best. That also happens to be the year that the Blue Oval discontinued its midsize truck in the United States. Because of its age, it’s a pretty easy task to find one for less than $20k. 

3. 2003 Ford Ranger

OK, so a Ranger from 2003 will be over 20 years old, but these trucks do have some benefits. You can get an updated overhead-cam 4.0-liter V6 engine along with four-wheel drive. If you are a truck enthusiast, you are also likely to appreciate the standard manual transmission. Although most folks will probably opt for the automatic. 

The big issue with this era of truck will likely be mileage. Most Rangers will probably have a bit of a life by this point. So, be sure to have an inspection done if you think a 2003 Ranger is right for you. 

2. 2019 Ford Ranger

This is the current-gen Ranger, and it might be hard to find one under $20k. But it can be done. You may have to skimp on some features and options while, at the same time, you will be getting a newer pickup truck. Each 2019 Ranger comes with an EcoBoost engine and a crew cab. 

Another perk is that you can potentially benefit from a warranty. That said, it’s entirely possible that a 2019 Raner that cost less than $20,000 might come with a salvage title. So that is something that you will want to look into. 

1. 2011 Ford Ranger

The 2011 Ranger is seen as one of the best model years for this vehicle. According to Vehicle History, it does feel like an old-school truck, but it is reliable. The other good news is that you won’t have to stretch your budget, especially if you look for one with some more miles on the clock. 

If I had my pick for a 2011 Ranger, it would be one with the V6, 4WD, and of course, the manual transmission. 

Is Ford updating the Ranger?

When this truck first returned back in 2019, the States did not get the same model that the global market did. We are actually on the previous gen Ranger. In the near future, the Blue Oval will be giving us the current generation. And that means we’ll get things like the Ford Ranger Raptor, which is a pretty exciting thing.