I recently spent a week driving the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Lariat Sport 4x4, which was an enlightening experience. The Ranger has always been a stalwart in Ford's lineup. Still, the 2024 model takes it to a new level with enhanced capabilities, refined design, and impressive technology. Here's a breakdown of my week with this midsize truck, from city commuting to off-road adventures.
Daryl Killian
City Driving: Smooth and Quiet
The first thing that struck me about the Ranger was its interior. It's quieter than I expected for a truck in this class. Ford has clearly invested in noise insulation, making the cabin a peaceful place to be, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The ride quality also impressed me; it was smoother than anticipated, providing a comfortable driving experience that rivals some of the best in the segment.
Daryl Killian
For my daily commute, the Ranger's nimbleness stood out. Maneuvering through traffic was a breeze, thanks to its responsive steering and well-tuned suspension. The new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, standard on the Ranger, offers 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering ample power for city driving. The available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, with its 315 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. torque is an exciting option for those needing more muscle for towing or off-roading.
Off-Road Capabilities: Impressive but Not Unmatched
Taking the Ranger off-road was a mixed experience. I ventured to a rock pit where I had previously tested the Ford Bronco. While the Ranger shares some off-road underpinnings with its sibling, it didn't quite match the Bronco's prowess. That said, the Ranger was still impressive and capable. The improved ground clearance and better approach and departure angles are noticeable, and the new electronic shift-on-the-fly 4x4 system makes transitioning between driving modes seamless.
Daryl Killian
Ford has incorporated advanced off-road tech into the Ranger, including an integrated trailer brake controller, 360-degree camera, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. These features and the sturdy, high-strength steel frame and outboard rear shocks ensure the Ranger is ready for most off-road challenges. While it may not be the Bronco, the Ranger holds its own in rugged terrain.
Towing Capabilities: Built for Heavy Lifting
One of the standout features of the 2024 Ford Ranger is its impressive towing capabilities. Ford has engineered the Ranger to easily handle various towing tasks, making it a versatile choice for both work and play. The Ranger offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, which is more than sufficient for most trailers, boats, and recreational vehicles. This is complemented by advanced towing technology, such as the class-exclusive Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which simplifies the process of reversing with a trailer attached. Additionally, the integrated trailer brake controller and 360-degree camera system enhance safety and ease of use, providing a comprehensive towing experience that is hard to beat in the midsize truck segment.
Daryl Killian
The Ranger's towing prowess is further supported by its robust powertrains. The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, ensuring you have enough grunt for demanding towing jobs. For those needing even more power, the available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 offers 315 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque, they are shared with the F-150 and Bronco, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty tasks. Whether you're hauling a trailer to a job site or taking a boat to the lake, the Ranger's towing capabilities inspire confidence.
Daryl Killian
Fuel Economy: Efficient Performance
Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for any truck owner, and the 2024 Ford Ranger does not disappoint. The Ranger's fuel efficiency varies depending on its configuration, offering options to suit different needs. For instance, the four-cylinder Ranger with rear-wheel drive achieves an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Opting for four-wheel drive slightly reduces these numbers to 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Daryl Killian
For those who require more power, the V-6 Ranger is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. While the V-6 offers robust performance, it still maintains respectable fuel economy, thanks to Ford's advanced engine technologies like turbocharging and direct fuel injection, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This ensures that even the more powerful Ranger remains economical to run, providing a good balance of power and efficiency for a midsize truck.
Technology and Comfort: Packed with Features
The 2024 Ranger shines with its updated tech and creature comforts. The standard 10.1-inch center touchscreen and available 12-inch screen with Ford's SYNC 4A system provide an intuitive and connected driving experience. The interior materials and textures have been upgraded, offering a more premium feel. The large center console, big door pockets, and fold-flat rear seats enhance storage options, making the Ranger practical for both daily use and weekend adventures.
Daryl Killian
Daryl Killian
Driver assistance features are abundant, with 31 standard or available options. These include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, BLIS with Trailer Coverage, and Active Park Assist 2.0. These systems work together to make driving easier and safer, whether on the highway or navigating a tricky trail.
Competing in a Crowded Field
The 2024 Ford Ranger is set to make waves in the midsize truck segment and is likely to be a strong contender for the Truck of the Year title. Its combination of smooth ride quality, advanced technology, and robust off-road capabilities puts it in direct competition with the 2024 Chevy Colorado, the current Truck of the Year. For buyers, this means more choices in a competitive market. Still, it also means a tough decision given the quality of the options available.
Daryl Killian
Final Thoughts
The all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Lariat Sport 4x4 is an excellent midsize truck that combines comfort, technology, and capability. Whether you're using it for daily commutes, off-road adventures, or hauling gear to your next destination, the Ranger delivers a well-rounded performance. With its quiet, smooth ride, advanced features, and strong off-road capabilities, the Ranger is certainly tugging at our heartstrings. If you're in the market for a midsize truck, the 2024 Ranger deserves a close look. The fierce competition, but Ford has raised the bar with this latest offering.
LARIAT
- Sport Appearance Package with 18" Machined Aluminum Wheels with Dark Pockets
- LED Projector Headlamps
- Power Sliding Rear Window
Zone Lighting SYNC® 4A with 12" Center Stack and 12" Digital Instrument Cluster
- Power, Heated, Leather-trimmed Front Seats with Driver Memory
- Available 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 Engine
Starting at $43,680
