You’ve heard the new 2020 Ford Ranger was bringing some much-needed muscle this year. Maybe you’re excited to climb behind the wheel of an FX2 to test out the off-road capabilities. But, for some of you, there’s one burning question on your mind. Can you get the 2020 Ranger with a manual transmission?

Can you get your 2020 Ford Ranger with a manual transmission?

With such a healthy selection of packages and options for the Ranger, you’d think a manual gearbox would be available as well. You would, however, be wrong. All Rangers come with an automatic transmission as the only option. While older model Rangers presented manual capabilities, moving forward, Ford will be moving away from stick shift availability.

Ranger may have missed the mark last year

Some reviews described the launch of last year’s Ford Ranger with lackluster performance. It seemed there had been a build-up excitement for its introduction. But then a combination of uncomfortable rides and clunky interior controls had the Ranger tripping out of the gate. While plenty of reviews had positive things to say about this year’s model, many were left feeling, well, meh.

Hoping that Ford took notice of those few critiques for 2019’s pickup, reviewers were eager to see if the 2020 Ranger would step up.

What’s new and exciting for the 2020 Ford Ranger

Let’s dive into what’s new on the Ranger. There are plenty of reasons to sit behind the wheel of this pickup, with the new FX2 Off-Road package, the 7,500-pound towing capacity, and its impressive fuel economy. There are a few performance upgrades too. You can expect options for off-road tires and an electronic-locking rear differential. Add a pickup box extender if you like and choose your look with a palette of fresh exterior colors.

What does the 2020 Ford Ranger offer under the hood?

The mid-size but mighty Ranger brings a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine to the table. Paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission, and you’ll experience the pull of 270 horses and 310 lb-ft of torque. You will also have the available Terrain Management System. This unique feature, in a way, handles the optimization of your engine for you. It’s designed to enhance your pickup’s performance over a variety of terrain. You can even select your own ‘mode’ when you need normal, gravel, snow, or mud responsiveness.

Trims and packages available for Ranger

You’ll have your pick of three available trims. The XL, XLT, and the Lariat all come with their own standard and optional features. Enjoy the must-haves in tech, safety, and amenities. Ranger comes with two core packages, along with a few additional off-road packages. The 101A package is designed to add in the entry-level extras.

Go big with the Co-Pilot360 package for the latest in driver assistance features, like blind-spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection. For the off-road enthusiasts, you’ll love the FX2 (new this year) and the FX4 Off-Road packages. If you need to pull with your Ranger, tack on the Trailer Tow package for towing enhanced capabilities.

Who doesn’t love a fun, stick shift truck?

You might be a loyal fan of the control a manual transmission provides. There’s something about pressing down on that clutch and shifting your truck to the next level. Unfortunately, most Americans aren’t in agreement. As consumers continue to opt for automatic vehicles, the automakers will essentially stop producing manual options.

Based on most reviews, we’ve found you’ll have every reason to get excited about the 2020 Ford Ranger. It’s a durable and capable truck with fun extras and packages to make it yours. You’ll have to forgo the manual transmission, though.