The Ford Ranger generated a lot of excitement when it returned to the market last year after an eight-year hiatus. It’s the second best-selling mid-size truck in the U.S. and it offers a range of up-to-date standard features, especially above the base trim level.

But you might be wondering if the Ranger has smartphone compatibility, in this case, Android Auto. The answer is a qualified yes since not all Ford Rangers have it. It will depend on the trim level you choose, so read on for the details.

Which Ford Ranger trim levels have Android Auto?

The Ford Ranger trim levels consist of the XL, the XLT, and the Lariat. In order to have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility on any version of the Ranger, it must be equipped with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system. This voice-activated system helps drivers with navigation, hands-free calling, and 911 Assist. It also connects with SiriusXM satellite radio. 

On the base model XL, SYNC 3—and therefore Android Auto—is an option. Both the XLT and the Lariat trim levels come standard with this infotainment system that enables both Android and Apple smartphone compatibility. Users access SYNC 3 through an 8.0-inch touchscreen display. And no matter which trim level you choose, a smart-charging USB port is standard.

So, if you have an Android smartphone that runs Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher, you can enjoy all the onboard assistance that Google has to offer on the mid-level and upper-level Ranger trim level. Plus Android Auto offers many popular third-party apps for communication, navigation, music, sports, podcasts, and more. 

What other technology does the Ford Ranger offer?

Again, the tech features that come standard on the Ranger will depend on the trim level you choose.

Inside the Ford Ranger XL, standard infotainment and connectivity features include an AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth connectivity and four speakers. Buyers at this trim level will also get FordPass Connect. This tech feature enables them to connect their smartphones to the internet to use 911 Assist, receive live navigation information and access a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. A 2.3-inch productivity screen is standard and a 4.2-inch screen is optional. Other options at this level besides SYNC 3 are SiriusXM satellite radio and a six-speaker audio system.

The XLT and Lariat have all of the XL’s standard features as well as SYNC 3. They also have Ford AppLink, a voice-activated software that allows users to interact with specific apps such as Pandora, Waze, and Ford+Alexa. The single XLT option is voice-activated navigation with SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link. Options for the Lariat trim level include a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and the SiriusXM voice-activated navigation system.

Standard safety features on the XL include a rearview camera, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, electronic stability control, front and side-curtain airbags, and curve control. The XL has four-wheel ABS, child seat anchors, active restraint system safety belts, and child-proof rear door locks on the truck’s crew cab configuration.

It also is equipped standard with MyKey, which allows the driver to restrict driving settings such as the truck’s top speed, maximum audio volume, and seat belt usage. Security features that are standard at this trim level include a passive anti-theft system and a post-crash alert system.

Optional security tech at the XL trim level is a perimeter anti-theft system and a remote keyless entry system.

The key safety technology solution offered on the Ford Ranger is the Ford Co-Pilot360 package, which is optional on the XL but standard on the XLT and the Lariat. This package groups together several driver-assist safety features including blind spot alert, adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

It also has pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlamps, and a rearview camera. While the Ford Co-Pilot360 is fairly comprehensive, the XLT and the Lariat trim levels also have the same standard safety features as the XL.

Standard security tech for both the XLT and the Lariat is the perimeter anti-theft system, remote keyless entry system, passive anti-theft system,  and post-crash alert system. A remote start system is optional.

As you can see, all three trim levels come with a variety of contemporary tech features. But if you’re thinking about buying a 2020 Ford Ranger and you have your heart set on Android Auto, you’ll want to choose between the XLT and the Lariat trim levels.