The long-awaited 2024 Ford Ranger is here, and it’s time to sound the bells! Okay, so the Ford Ranger has been around, just not around here, which only created a heartier appetite for the beefy beast. While other markets got to enjoy the Ranger, we were forced to watch from a distance, but all has been made up for with the drop of the Ranger and even better, the Raptor.
It can be difficult to watch new and exciting vehicles hit the overseas market, but thankfully, our Americanized Ford Ranger has graced us with its presence, bringing some new and fancy upgrades to boot. Of course, what creates the greatest buzz here is the introduction of the Raptor, a lean, mean, adrenaline-filled machine that takes the newest Ranger to even greater heights. There are some pretty great features to explore on the Ranger, and we are revving to jump right in.
It’s All About That Chassis
The foundation of a vehicle, the chassis, can make or break its success. That is why the Ford Ranger has been given an enhanced chassis, one that can handle the expectations put on its cab. The Ranger is designed with a heavy-duty, fully boxed steel frame made to take the extra demand from off-roading. The track has been widened, and a couple of inches have been added to the wheelbase, providing a stance that looks mean and is equally intimidating. The modified track adds to the vehicle’s stability and support, allowing it to handle tougher jobs and terrain.
The upgraded platform also increases ground clearance, improving the approach and departure angles as well. With greater clearance, the Ranger will be able to handle obstacles with ease and keep those delicate components underneath protected. The rear-wheel drive options have a ground clearance of 8.8 inches, while the all-wheel drive comes in at 9.3 inches. A stabilizer bar in the front provides extra support and minimizes body roll in conjunction with the rear leaf springs. Outboard shock absorbers are also added to take the brunt of vibrations and jostling, resulting in a smoother, more controlled ride.
Improved Engine Options
The Ranger is available with two engine options this time around, with the first rolling over from the previous model. The older engine option, which is a turbocharged 2.3L engine, is no slouch, offering 310 lb-ft of torque and 270 hp. The newest engine, however, is a 2.7L twin-turbo V6, significantly increasing the Ranger’s output. The torque output is increased to 400 lb-ft while horsepower is beefed up to 315. Both of these engine options are mated with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a class-exclusive to be exact. Smooth shifting will come in handy when hitting dirt roads, cruising the highways, or towing a trailer. The available Pro Trailer Backup Assist is another class-exclusive that takes advantage of the Ranger’s improved capabilities, allowing you to tow with confidence.
The Anticipated Ford Ranger Raptor
The Raptor is designed to optimize off-road performance and give you the ultimate experience when exploring the path less traveled. The Raptor is the Ranger but on steroids, with improvements geared toward the adventurous lifestyle. One of these improvements involves bumping the Raptor to 10.7 inches of ground clearance, which also impacts its departure and approach angles by a few important degrees. The front and rear tracks are wider, and the Raptor is even slightly longer than its slightly less rugged counterparts.
The Raptor’s suspension components vary from the Ranger for the purpose of increasing stability and functionality. The front is fitted with a lightweight aluminum arm and FOX Live Valve Shocks, which are the cream of the crop when it comes to dampening power. The Raptor is fitted with a trailing arm in the rear as well, which provides control and helps keep the suspension components straight when climbing rough terrain. Another great feature of the Raptor is that it allows you to change suspension settings, along with a few other settings, right from your steering wheel. This is a convenient feature for off-roading, letting you adjust quickly to each obstacle. Drive modes such as Snow, Sand, and Mud/Rut can be adjusted with ease for whatever lies ahead.
An Impressive Attention to Details
The Ranger is available in several trims: the XL, XLT, LARIAT, and, of course, the Raptor. Each trim level varies in styling, guaranteeing you a unique experience, but one thing will remain the same, and that is the details. Not so much what details are included but that whichever Ranger you choose, you are sure to notice the attention to detail that elevates this truck to the highest level. Zone lighting is one feature that can be found on the LARIAT and the Raptor and offers convenience for when off-roading, camping, you name it. The zone lighting provides ample visibility for the area surrounding you and your truck. The LARIAT, along with the XLT trim, also features a nifty built-in step that is tucked within the box. This simple but effective addition makes it easier to access the bed and your haul.
Many trims offer LED lighting integrated into the bed, a great feature for hauling, towing, camping, and more. These same trims also offer an embedded power outlet in the bed so you can charge up things like power tools and various camping equipment. For more convenient ways to stay connected, check out the wireless charging option available on select trims. This great feature lets you charge your compatible smart device without the hassle of messy cords.
A 360-Degree Camera comes standard on select trims, like the Raptor. This piece of tech is ideal for off-road adventuring, providing a full view of your surroundings. The 360 provides a generated birdseye view that lets you locate potential hazards and better map out your route. The camera can even help when backing up or making difficult maneuvers by giving you an easy view without putting a crick in your neck.
Explore the Unknown With the 2024 Ford Ranger
The 2024 Ford Ranger is an exciting addition to the segment, providing cutting-edge technology, powerful performance, and the exhilarating Raptor trim that takes off-road to the next level. There are plenty of things to appreciate about the Ranger that we haven’t covered, like cabin luxuries and exclusive exterior design options, but these are to be expected. It is these extra and unique features that make the Ranger and the Ranger Raptor something to talk about. Whether you are planning on hauling or towing, going off-road, or just running errands, the Ranger is ready.
The addition of the V6 increases what the Ranger is capable of, opening up new opportunities for excitement. The use of FOX suspension components elevates the Ranger to a new level, providing an advantage for the Ranger Raptor over its competition. Every thoughtful detail and feature is what makes this Ranger one of the most powerful and capable Ranger models to date, quantifying its place on the pavement and off. It is an exciting time to be a Ford fan, and it’s thrilling to see the long-awaited 2024 Ford Ranger and the even more anticipated 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor hit the streets.
