Skip to main content

Earlier pickup trucks focused primarily on utility and functionality, leaving much to be desired in terms of comfort. However, in recent years, trucks have placed a greater emphasis on comfort and luxury. The trade-off has been higher prices, but exceptions exist. One of the most comfortable pickup trucks costs only $25,000: the 2022 Ford Ranger.

The 2022 Ford Ranger is one of the most comfortable pickup trucks

A tan 2022 Ford Ranger Splash Sand Edition midsize pickup truck model driving on a sandy beach
2022 Ford Ranger | Ford Motor Company

Pickup trucks are ideal for towing, hauling payload, and driving off-road. But enjoying a comfortable ride while getting tough jobs done is a perk. Trucks that combine utility and comfort are in greater demand these days. 

And for comfort, the 2022 Ford Ranger is one of the best. U.S. News rates it as one of the most comfortable pickup trucks. However, enjoying high-level comfort in a truck typically means a higher sticker price. But the Ranger is a budget-friendly option. With a starting MSRP of $25,930, it’s the cheapest new model in the U.S. News roundup of the most comfortable trucks. 

Why is the affordable 2022 Ford Ranger so comfortable?

Seats in 2022 Ford Ranger, starting at $25K and one of most comfortable pickup trucks, says U.S. News
2022 Ford Ranger | Ford Motor Company

Multiple factors make the 2022 Ranger a comfortable pickup truck. Compared to some of its midsize truck rivals, the Ford pickup offers more rear-seat space, thanks to the available SuperCrew cab. Also, the Ranger’s front seats are ergonomic and supportive. Ford designed them to reduce fatigue and stiffness on long journeys — while still providing a high ride height for optimal outward visibility. 

Furthermore, the Ranger has a high-quality suspension that absorbs the bumps from road imperfections and traveling on uneven terrain. Plus, the truck offers various comfort and convenience features. They include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, voice-activated navigation, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a six-way power front passenger seat, and adaptive cruise control.

In addition to those comfort elements, the Ranger touts a stout 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, it delivers 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. U.S. News reviewers also praise the midsize truck’s maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. Plus, the Ranger is dependable, with a J.D. Power Quality & Reliability rating of 86/100. 

Other models on the U.S. News list of the most comfortable pickup trucks

Though the Ford Ranger is the cheapest pickup on the list, other affordable choices appear in the U.S. News roundup of the most comfortable trucks. They include the Chevy Colorado ($26,135), Toyota Tacoma ($27,150), and GMC Canyon ($27,500).

Here is the complete list, from lowest to highest MSRP: 

  1. 2022 Ford Ranger: $25,930
  2. 2022 Chevy Colorado: $26,135
  3. 2022 Toyota Tacoma: $27,150
  4. 2022 GMC Canyon: $27,500
  5. 2022 Nissan Frontier: $28,690
  6. 2022 Ford F-150: $31,520
  7. 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500: $34,600
  8. 2022 GMC Sierra 1500: $35,400
  9. 2022 Toyota Tundra: $35,950
  10. 2022 Ram 1500: $37,090
  11. 2022 Jeep Gladiator: $37,170
  12. 2022 Honda Ridgeline: $38,140
  13. 2022 Nissan Titan: $38,810 

As you can see in the U.S. News roundup, you don’t have to destroy your budget to drive a comfortable pickup truck. The cheapest truck on the list — the 2022 Ford Ranger — is proof.