3 Reasons the 2023 Ford Ranger Could Be the Truck to Buy and 3 Reasons to Pass
Over the years, the Ford Ranger has been a popular pickup truck model for the manufacturer. The 2023 Ford Ranger trims don’t seem to be any different. However, there are definitely pros and cons associated with owning one. Read on to discover three reasons the 2023 Ford Ranger could be the perfect pickup truck for you and three reasons you might want to pass on this midsize truck.
Get to know the 2023 Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger has experienced a significant evolution since its first model years began rolling off the production line in 1983. From 1983 to 2012, the Ranger was classified as a compact pickup truck. After nearly three decades in production, Ford discontinued the Ranger in 2012. Following a seven-year hiatus, Ford brought the Ranger back in 2019 as a midsize pickup option.
With its resurgence in 2019 came many new features on the midsize Ford Ranger. According to Ford, the latest 2023 Ford Ranger comes in three trim options. The base trim, Ranger XL, has an MSRP of $27,400 and provides an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The next trim level is the Ranger XLT which provides a similar fuel economy with an MSRP of $31,460. The third trim level is the Ranger Lariat which has an MSRP of $35,500.
Pros of the 2023 Ford Ranger
Like any vehicle, the 2023 Ford Ranger has its own pros and cons. According to True Car, one prominent pro associated with the 2023 model is its gusty turbocharged engine, which is powerful and refined. While big V6 engines remain common in this class of pickup trucks, the Ranger outperforms the competition with a gusty 270 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that provides ultimate power for a midsize truck.
Another pro regarding the 2023 Ford Ranger is the impressive towing capacity the midsize truck can provide consumers. True Car reports that the top trim offers a payload that reaches nearly 1,900 lbs. The Ranger also provides the highest standard tow capability for its class, with every trim rated to pull 7,500 lbs. These capabilities are impressive for a midsize pickup truck and are more closely in line with the towing capabilities of a full-size truck.
A third pro of the 2023 Ford Ranger is that it offers nimble pickup handling. The midsize truck provides impressive steering accuracy and response, making turning into tight corners a breeze.
Cons of the 2023 Ford Ranger
One key con associated with the Ranger is that the ride is a bit too firm for most consumers. As highlighted on Car Talk, the suspension on the Ranger is stiff, and you will feel jolted at times, especially if you’re navigating a rough road.
Another con of the Ranger is that the pickup doesn’t provide as much interior space compared to some of its key competitors. While the front seats are comfortable, the rear bench seat on the SuperCrew models is perched rather high, leaving barely enough headroom for the average adult.
A third con of the 2023 Ford Ranger is that the model leaves much to be desired when it comes to similar-sized off-roading vehicles like the Jeep Gladiator. However, off-roading enthusiasts will be glad to hear that the high-performance Ranger Raptor is on its way, which will greatly elevate the Ranger’s off-roading capabilities.
The Ford Ranger can be a great fit for the right person. It all comes down to what is important to you as a consumer.
