2019 Ford Ranger Review: The Mid-Size Truck That Redefines Expectations

     

After an eight-year hiatus from the U.S. market, the Ford Ranger made a triumphant return in 2019, bringing fresh competition to the thriving mid-size pickup segment. This comprehensive review examines whether the revived Ranger lives up to its legacy while meeting modern truck buyers' demands for capability, comfort, and technology.

The Ranger's Comeback Story

The automotive landscape had changed dramatically since the previous-generation Ranger left American showrooms in 2011. As consumer preferences shifted decisively toward trucks and SUVs, Ford recognized the strategic importance of re-entering the mid-size truck market. The 2019 Ranger arrived at a pivotal moment, positioned to challenge established players like the Toyota Tacoma and Chevrolet Colorado while appealing to buyers seeking something more manageable than full-size trucks.

Globally, this Ranger platform had been available since 2011, receiving updates in 2015. While some might consider this a disadvantage, the extended development period allowed Ford to refine the truck's capabilities while maintaining its competitive edge in key performance metrics.

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Performance and Capability: More Than Just Numbers

At the heart of every pickup truck evaluation lies its ability to perform under pressure. The 2019 Ranger delivers impressive specifications that translate to real-world capability:

Specification	2019 Ford Ranger	Chevrolet Colorado	Toyota Tacoma
Base Engine	2.3L Turbo I4 (270 hp)	2.5L I4 (200 hp)	2.7L I4 (159 hp)
Max Towing Capacity	7,500 lbs	7,700 lbs	6,800 lbs
Max Payload	1,860 lbs	1,574 lbs	1,440 lbs
Fuel Economy (2WD)	21/26/23 mpg	20/26/22 mpg	20/23/21 mpg

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Engine and Transmission: Quality Over Quantity

While some competitors offer multiple engine choices, Ford focused on perfecting a single powertrain combination for the Ranger. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder delivers:

• Peak torque available at just 3,000 rpm for strong low-end response
• 10-speed automatic transmission with optimized gear ratios
• Trail Control™ system for off-road crawling (4WD models)
• Available FX4 Off-Road Package with specialized components

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Driving Experience: Where Truck Meets SUV Refinement

One of the Ranger's most surprising qualities is its composed on-road behavior. Unlike traditional body-on-frame trucks that sacrifice comfort for capability, the Ranger delivers:

• Precise electric power-assisted steering
• Well-controlled body motions during cornering
• Compliant ride quality over rough surfaces
• Quiet cabin with effective noise insulation

This balanced approach makes the Ranger equally capable as a daily commuter or weekend adventure vehicle, bridging the gap between workhorse and lifestyle truck.

Interior and Technology: A Mixed Bag

The Ranger's cabin presents both highlights and disappointments. While functional and durable, the interior design reflects its global-market origins with some dated elements:

Infotainment Options Across Trim Levels

• XL Trim: Basic 2.3-inch monochrome display
• XLT Trim: 4.2-inch color screen (upgradable to 8-inch)
• Lariat Trim: Standard 8-inch SYNC® 3 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Safety Technology That Impresses

Where the Ranger truly shines is in its available safety features. The Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite includes:

• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Coverage
• Lane Keeping System with Lane Departure Warning
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps
• Rear View Camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist
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Competitive Positioning: How the Ranger Stacks Up

In the fiercely competitive mid-size truck segment, the Ranger brings several unique advantages:

• Against the Toyota Tacoma: More powerful base engine, superior payload capacity
• Against the Chevrolet Colorado: More refined ride quality, better standard safety features
• Against the Jeep Gladiator: Lower price point, more conventional truck utility
• Against the Nissan Frontier: Modern engineering, significantly better fuel economy
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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2019 Ford Ranger?

The 2019 Ranger represents an excellent choice for:

• Urban and suburban buyers needing truck capability without full-size dimensions
• Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a comfortable overlanding platform
• Small business owners requiring payload capacity in a manageable package
• Families wanting occasional-use truck functionality with daily-driver comfort

While not without its flaws—particularly in interior design and tech offerings—the Ranger's strengths in performance, safety, and overall capability make it a compelling option in the mid-size truck segment. Its return to the U.S. market has undoubtedly made the competitive landscape more interesting, giving buyers another well-rounded choice in this increasingly popular vehicle category.