The Return of a Legend: Driving the 2019 Ford Ranger
The automotive world buzzed with excitement at the news of the Ford Ranger’s highly anticipated return to the North American market. After a hiatus that left a significant void in the mid-size truck segment, enthusiasts and loyalists alike eagerly awaited the reintroduction of this iconic pickup. We’ve closely followed every development since the initial announcement and finally had the incredible opportunity to put the 2019 Ford Ranger through its paces. Our recent experience with this formidable truck has not only rekindled our admiration for the Ranger but has also cemented its position as a serious contender for anyone seeking a versatile, capable, and adventure-ready vehicle. Join us as we delve into what makes the reborn Ford Ranger a true standout.
Unleashing the Power: Dynamic Performance and Efficient Engineering
From the moment you press the accelerator, it’s clear the 2019 Ford Ranger is engineered for impressive performance. Having spent countless hours behind the wheel of various mid-sized trucks, we can confidently state that the new Ranger offers an exceptionally spirited and engaging driving experience. Its responsiveness is immediate and exhilarating, proving that this truck truly moves with purpose and power.
At the heart of the Ranger’s dynamic performance is its sole powertrain option: the robust 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder powerhouse is anything but ordinary. It’s specifically tuned to deliver a remarkable balance of horsepower and torque, providing instant acceleration and robust pulling power across the RPM range. Paired seamlessly with an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, the Ranger offers a driving sensation that genuinely presses you into your seat when you demand it. The transmission’s intelligent gearing ensures smooth, precise shifts, optimizing power delivery for any driving condition, whether you’re navigating bustling city streets or cruising on the open highway.
Beyond its thrilling performance, the EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission combination also excel in efficiency. Ford has engineered this powertrain to deliver segment-leading fuel economy ratings without compromising capability. Drivers can expect an impressive EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and a combined rating of 23 mpg. This exceptional fuel efficiency makes the 2019 Ford Ranger an economical choice for daily commuting while still providing the muscle needed for demanding tasks and exhilarating adventures. This blend of potent performance and thoughtful economy truly sets the Ranger apart in a competitive landscape, proving that power doesn’t have to come at the expense of practicality.
Built for the Wild: Unrivaled Capability and Adventure Readiness
While our initial test drive largely involved urban and highway environments, a mere spin down the 405 and around the neighborhood was enough to confirm the Ranger’s inherent readiness for adventure, especially when equipped with the formidable FX4 Off-Road Package. This isn’t just a stylish trim; it’s a comprehensive suite of enhancements designed to tackle rugged terrain and challenging conditions with confidence. The FX4 package includes off-road-tuned shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, sturdy skid plates to protect vital underbody components, and Ford’s innovative Terrain Management System™ with four selectable drive modes (Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand). Additionally, Trail Control™ acts like off-road cruise control, allowing the driver to focus on steering while the system manages throttle and braking on difficult paths.
The 2019 Ford Ranger truly shines in its raw utility, boasting best-in-class capabilities that leave competitors in its wake. With the available Trailer Tow Package, the Ranger delivers an impressive best-in-class 7,500 pounds of gasoline towing capacity. This remarkable figure means you can confidently haul a substantial boat to the lake, pull a large travel trailer for weekend getaways, or transport heavy equipment for work projects. Complementing this towing prowess is an equally impressive best-in-class maximum payload of 1,860 pounds. Whether you’re loading up camping gear, dirt bikes, construction materials, or simply a week’s worth of family luggage, the Ranger is exceptionally capable of handling all your cargo needs with ease and stability, ensuring nothing gets left behind on your next great adventure.
best-in-class 7,500 pounds of gas towing capacity
To further enhance its adventure credentials, Ford has forged a strategic partnership with Yakima, a renowned leader in outdoor equipment solutions. This collaboration allows customers to seamlessly integrate a wide array of Yakima accessories directly into their Ranger purchase, with the added convenience of rolling the cost into vehicle financing. This innovative approach means you can drive off the lot with a fully equipped adventure machine from day one. Furthermore, all Yakima accessories purchased through an authorized Ford dealership come with the reassuring backing of a 3-year or 36,000-mile Ford warranty, offering peace of mind for all your expeditions. These thoughtfully selected accessories significantly expand the Ranger’s utility, transforming it into the ultimate platform for any outdoor pursuit. Here’s a closer look at some of the key offerings:
- BedRock Heavy Duty (HD) Truck Bed Rack (78-inch HD Crossbar)
The BedRock HD system is engineered to elevate your truck’s carrying capacity while maintaining a sleek, low-profile design. This robust rack allows you to transport oversized gear like bikes, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, skis, or even cargo boxes securely above the truck bed. By utilizing the vertical space, it cleverly preserves the entire storage capacity of the bed underneath for additional luggage, coolers, or tools. It’s the perfect solution for adventurers who need to maximize their hauling potential.- Also compatible with BedRock: The SkyRise Medium Rooftop Tent transforms your Ranger into a mobile basecamp. This comfortable and convenient tent sets up quickly, offering elevated sleeping quarters for an immersive outdoor experience.
- BaseLine Tower and JetStream Crossbar Cab Rack
Designed for a precise and secure fit on the Ranger’s cab, the BaseLine system boasts an aerodynamic and adjustable design that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s roofline. The JetStream crossbars are not only strong but also designed to minimize wind noise and drag, ensuring a quiet and efficient journey. This setup provides a versatile platform for mounting a variety of rooftop accessories, expanding your carrying options significantly.- Also compatible with BaseLine: The MegaWarrior Basket, equipped with a light bracket and a large stretch net, offers an expansive cargo solution for bulky gear. The SlimShady Awning provides instant shade and shelter, making it ideal for roadside stops, camping, or tailgating, enhancing comfort and utility on any trip.
- LongArm Bed Extender with Pad
The LongArm truck bed extender is an indispensable tool for hauling exceptionally long items that would otherwise exceed the confines of the truck bed. Constructed from lightweight yet remarkably strong aluminum, this hitch-mounted rack can easily extend the length of any truck bed by up to four feet. It’s perfect for securely transporting kayaks, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, lumber, ladders, and other oversized gear. The LongArm is ingeniously adjustable to three distinct load-carrying positions, offering flexibility for various types of cargo. In its lower positions, it’s rated to carry an impressive 300 pounds, providing robust support when you need it most. - GateKeeper Tailgate Pad (Large; for up to six bikes)
For cyclists, the GateKeeper tailgate pad offers an elegant and secure solution for transporting multiple bikes. Its durable nylon exterior acts as a protective barrier, shielding the attached bicycles from direct contact with the truck’s tailgate. Simultaneously, the soft felt backing safeguards the vehicle’s paintwork, preventing scratches and scuffs. Integrated SitTight™ bike cradles are a thoughtful addition, providing extra stability and protection for each bike, ensuring they remain firmly in place throughout the journey. Furthermore, the innovative HindSight™ tuck-away cover conveniently opens up the view for the vehicle’s rearview camera, maintaining full visibility and safety even with bikes loaded.
Comfort, Space, and Family Adventures
One of the true tests of a modern truck’s versatility is its ability to comfortably accommodate family life, and the 2019 Ford Ranger passed with flying colors. Our family of four easily piled into the Ranger, finding ample space without any struggle. Coming from a full-size 2008 F-150, we initially harbored some reluctance about downsizing. However, any concerns quickly dissipated. The Ranger’s interior, while smaller than our F-150, felt surprisingly spacious and well-appointed. It offered a cozy yet never cramped atmosphere, a testament to Ford’s intelligent use of interior volume and ergonomic design.
The Ranger’s cabin is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and functionality for all occupants. High-quality materials and intuitive controls create a pleasant environment. Passengers, particularly those in the rear seats, benefit from well-cushioned seating and adequate legroom, making even longer journeys enjoyable. Our kids, in particular, absolutely loved their seats. The slightly elevated seating position provided them with a superior view of the outside world, turning every drive into an engaging visual adventure. Beyond comfort, the Ranger offers a suite of modern technologies, including Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, ensuring connectivity and entertainment are always at your fingertips. Advanced safety features like Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane-Keeping System further enhance peace of mind on every journey.
This balance of practical interior space, advanced technology, and a comfortable ride makes the Ranger an ideal choice not just for rugged adventures but also for everyday family duties. Its maneuverability in urban settings, combined with its spacious cabin, positions it as a highly versatile option for those who need truck capabilities without the bulk of a full-size pickup. The Ranger proves that you don’t have to sacrifice family comfort for capability.
The Dream Build: Customization for the Ultimate Overland Rig
While we thoroughly enjoyed our review of the base model Ford Ranger, appreciating its fundamental strengths and impressive capabilities, our minds couldn’t help but drift towards the exciting possibilities of customization. If we were in the market to purchase a new Ranger, our dream configuration would undoubtedly be the SuperCrew Lariat trim, enhanced with the striking Off-Road Black Appearance Package. This specific combination offers the perfect blend of premium features, refined aesthetics, and rugged capability, making it an ideal canvas for an overland build.
The Lariat trim brings an elevated level of luxury and technology to the Ranger, with features like leather-trimmed seats, an advanced infotainment system, and enhanced driver-assist technologies. Paired with the SuperCrew configuration, it ensures maximum passenger comfort and interior space, crucial for long-distance overlanding trips. The Off-Road Black Appearance Package not only provides a distinct, aggressive aesthetic with blacked-out accents and wheels but also hints at the serious off-road potential lurking beneath. Building up such a model would be an absolute dream – transforming it into an everyday driver capable of seamlessly transitioning into epic overlanding adventures. Imagine it equipped with an aftermarket lift kit for improved ground clearance, larger all-terrain tires for superior traction, a robust front bumper with an integrated winch for recovery, and perhaps even custom bed drawers or a modular bed rack system to organize gear and support a more permanent rooftop tent setup. This level of customization would unlock the Ranger’s full potential, allowing it to conquer any trail, explore remote landscapes, and serve as the ultimate vehicle for those who seek to live life off the beaten path.
In conclusion, the 2019 Ford Ranger is far more than just a returning nameplate; it’s a meticulously engineered mid-size truck that truly delivers on its promise of versatility, power, and adventure-readiness. Its potent EcoBoost engine, best-in-class towing and payload, and robust FX4 Off-Road Package make it an undisputed champion in its segment. Coupled with a comfortable and technologically advanced interior, and the seamless integration of Yakima accessories, the Ranger is perfectly positioned for both demanding work and exhilarating outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re navigating cityscapes, hauling heavy loads, or embarking on an ambitious overlanding expedition, the Ford Ranger stands ready to meet every challenge with confidence and style. Its return marks a significant moment for truck enthusiasts, offering a compelling package that combines daily practicality with unbounded adventure potential.