At its debut, the Ranger made a strong impression on our judges with its spacious cabin, firm ride, and precise handling. Both the 270-hp turbo-four and the 315-hp twin-turbo V-6 provided ample power, though the 10-speed automatic transmission occasionally lacked smoothness. The plush Lariat model enhanced luxury with its features, though some interior color choices were puzzling, and the expanded rear seating made it more family-friendly.
Off-road, the Ranger proved to be capable, despite the absence of an automatic 4WD setting. The rear-locking differential performed admirably, and although it lacks the high-tech features of the Ranger Raptor, it handled off-road tasks efficiently.
The Ranger excelled at carrying cargo like office furniture comfortably. However, the TOTY rules required it to haul near-capacity loads, revealing some strain. A loaded Lariat didn't feel significantly slower, but it experienced brake fade and sloppy handling, contrasting sharply with a more resilient Nissan Frontier.
With a 4,680-pound trailer behind the V-6 XLT, stability was solid, aided by Ford’s intuitive towing assists. Yet, the brakes and rear suspension clearly struggled. Pushing the Ranger to tow with a loaded bed under its maximum combined weight was tense; smooth roads were manageable, but bumps sent shocks through the system.
In daily use, the Ranger proved practical and accommodating. While it may not have the flashiness of the Tacoma or Colorado, it excels as a versatile, competent daily driver—as long as you respect its limits and avoid overburdening it.
The 2024 Ford Ranger stands out for its practicality and rugged charm. It's ready for everyday adventures and light towing but has noticeable limitations under heavier stress. In the 2025 Truck of the Year trials, it remains a strong contender, showcasing Ford's balance between power and functionality.
