Ford Ranger 2024: North American model finally unveiled, Raptor as a bonus

The new generation Ford Ranger, unveiled at the world premiere in November 2021 and already on sale in many markets, is finally coming to us. The automaker today introduced the North American model, which will begin ordering later in May with the first products expected to arrive in late summer.

The 2024 Ranger returns in XL, XLT and Lariat versions, each sporting a different front. Aesthetically, it resembles a beefier and more muscular Maverick: the redesigned grille and headlights are identical, as is the tailgate that features the name “Ranger” in bold, bold lettering.

Photo: Ford

Increased durability

Ford engineers made this Ranger even tougher, built on an improved chassis and re-suspension that they tested for the equivalent of nearly 8 million kilometers. There is a 50mm gain in wheelbase and tracks, as well as increased ground clearance and better angles of attack and leaving by driving off the road.

The volume of the box is increased by the same fact, enough to transport plywood sheets or flat pallets. Its payload increases to 1,711 pounds. As for maximum towing capacity, it remains at 7,500 pounds.

V6 is available

Speaking of power, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder is back in the 2024 Ford Ranger, still producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Surprise: toward the end of fall, Ford will add a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 option, shared by the F-150 and Bronco. Then it will be a question of 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

Photo: Ford

In all cases, a 10-speed automatic transmission and an electronic shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system are included, unlike in the US where a 4×2 configuration is also on the menu.

More technology

As for the cabin, expect more storage in the console and under the rear seat (not to mention the optional second glove box). The rear end now folds flat, which is practical. Ford promises that the quality of materials and finish has been improved.

In terms of technology, depending on the version, the digital dashboard of 8 or 12.4 inches is accompanied by a central touchscreen of 10.1 or 12 inches and whose SYNC 4 system can receive updates. remote application. A wireless phone charger and a 360-degree viewing feature are also available.

Let’s not forget the active parking assist system as well as trailer hitch and back up assistance.

Ranger Raptor

To the delight of off-road enthusiasts, Ford is making good on its promise by releasing the Ranger Raptor for the first time in North America, a truck that will compete directly with the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, GMC Canyon AT4X and Jeep Gladiator Rubicon.

Its sharper design includes fender flares, the famous FORD lettering on the grille, a split front and rear bumper and 17-inch rims shod with 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires. In addition, there are several protective plates under the car, including one in the front that is almost twice that of the standard Ranger.

The Ranger Raptor has a different chassis. The frame and suspension are not the same and there are more reinforcements to better absorb the shocks when the truck ventures on more difficult grounds. The suspension is completely adjustable with, among other things, strong upper and lower arms in lightweight aluminum. It has longer travel and 2.5-inch diameter FOX Live Valve shocks, specially designed by Ford Performance, adapt to real-time conditions for better control.

Under the hood is a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft (prime gas required), more power than GM’s competitors but similar torque. Four active exhaust modes (Baja, Sport, Normal and Quiet) are added to the seven drive modes offered: Normal, Sport, Slippery, Off-road, Towing, Rocks and Baja. With the latter, anti-delay technology keeps the turbochargers spinning for three seconds after the driver releases the pedal to allow acceleration again.

Finally, let’s mention the Cruise Control system, which works like cruise control (32 km/h or less) when driving off-road to allow the driver to focus on the steering wheel. By the way, towing capacity drops here to 5,510 pounds.

Assembled like its predecessor at the Wayne, Michigan plant, the 2024 Ford Ranger will start at $41,255, up nearly $3,000. The base price of the Ranger Raptor is $77,805. In both cases, shipping and handling costs of $2,095 must be added.