2019 Ford Ranger Overview
The 2019 Ford Ranger marked the triumphant return of the legendary mid-size pickup truck to the North American market after a significant hiatus. Designed to bridge the gap between smaller, more car-like trucks and the heavy-duty F-Series, the 2019 Ranger aimed to offer a compelling blend of capability, technology, and refinement. It was engineered for those who need the utility of a truck for work and recreation but still desire a vehicle that's comfortable and maneuverable for daily driving.
Highlights
The 2019 Ford Ranger boasts a potent powertrain and a suite of advanced features that make it a strong contender in its segment:
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Engine: The sole engine option is a robust 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This turbocharged powerplant delivers an impressive 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's paired exclusively with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifts and contributes to both performance and fuel efficiency. This combination offers ample power for hauling and towing, as well as responsive acceleration for everyday driving.
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Safety Features: Ford equipped the 2019 Ranger with a commendable array of standard and available safety technologies, designed to enhance driver awareness and mitigate potential collisions.
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): This standard system uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions. If a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react, the brakes will automatically apply to reduce the severity of the impact or avoid it altogether.
- Lane-Keeping System (Available): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering inputs if the system detects the vehicle drifting out of its lane without the turn signal being activated.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert (Available): BLIS warns the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spot, while Cross-Traffic Alert alerts the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking spot.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (Available): Allows the driver to set a desired speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead. The system will automatically adjust speed to maintain the set distance.
- Roll Stability Control (RSC): Specifically designed for trucks, RSC helps prevent rollovers by monitoring vehicle stability and applying brakes to individual wheels if instability is detected.
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Trims: The 2019 Ranger was offered in three distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous one to cater to different needs and preferences:
- XL: The base model, providing essential truck functionality and a solid foundation for work or basic utility.
- XLT: The mid-tier option, offering a significant upgrade in comfort, convenience, and technology features, making it a well-rounded choice for most buyers.
- Lariat: The premium trim, loaded with advanced features, luxurious appointments, and enhanced styling, positioning it as a sophisticated and capable pickup.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Built-in Wi-Fi Hotspot (Available): Allows multiple devices to connect to the internet on the go, enhancing productivity and entertainment.
- SYNC 3 Infotainment System (Available): A user-friendly system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, providing seamless smartphone integration.
- Available FX4 Off-Road Package: For those who venture off the beaten path, this package includes features like an electronic-locking rear differential, skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, and all-terrain tires, significantly boosting its capability in challenging terrain.
- Robust Towing and Payload Capacity: The Ranger is designed to handle serious work, offering competitive towing (up to 7,500 lbs) and payload capacities in its class.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Ford Ranger generally translates to a practical and reliable ownership experience, especially for those who utilize its truck capabilities.
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Typical Ownership Experience: Owners can expect a truck that is both capable for hauling and towing and reasonably comfortable for daily commutes. The 10-speed transmission generally provides smooth shifts, and the EcoBoost engine offers good power without sacrificing too much on fuel economy for a truck of its size. The interior, particularly in the higher trims, is well-appointed and features modern technology that enhances the driving experience. The ride quality is firm, as expected from a body-on-frame truck, but it's not overly harsh.
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Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, is straightforward and follows typical truck schedules. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine requires specific oil types, so it's important to adhere to Ford's recommendations. Due to its popularity, parts and service are readily available at Ford dealerships and most independent mechanics. Long-term maintenance will include standard wear-and-tear items like brakes and suspension components, which are generally manageable for a vehicle in this segment.
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Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2019 Ford Ranger can vary significantly based on location, driving record, chosen trim level, optional features, and coverage levels. Trucks, in general, can sometimes incur higher insurance premiums due to their perceived risk and higher repair costs compared to sedans. However, the Ranger's advanced safety features can potentially help offset some of these costs by offering discounts. It's always recommended to get personalized quotes from multiple insurance providers.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Ford Ranger is a strong offering, there are a few aspects that potential buyers should be aware of:
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Ride Comfort: As a body-on-frame truck designed for capability, the ride quality can be firmer and less refined than car-based SUVs or crossovers. While improved over older Ranger generations, it may still feel somewhat "truck-like" to those accustomed to more compliant suspensions.
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Road Noise: Depending on the tire choice and road surface, some road and wind noise can be present inside the cabin, particularly at highway speeds. This is a common characteristic of pickup trucks but might be noticeable to drivers prioritizing a silent interior.
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Rear Seat Space: While the Ranger offers a usable rear seat in its SuperCrew (four-door) configuration, it is still a mid-size truck. Legroom and headroom in the rear can be more constrained than in larger full-size trucks or some larger SUVs, making it less ideal for frequent adult passengers on long journeys.
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Transmission Behavior: While generally smooth, some users have reported occasional slightly hesitant shifts or a learning curve for the 10-speed transmission to adapt to driving styles. This is a common trait for transmissions with many gears.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Ford Ranger revitalized the mid-size truck segment with its potent EcoBoost engine, modern technology, and a strong emphasis on capability. It successfully blends the ruggedness expected from a truck with a level of refinement and driver aids that make it a competent daily driver. Whether for work, adventure, or simply the utility of a truck bed, the 2019 Ranger presented a compelling package that appealed to a broad range of consumers, offering a well-rounded and capable option in its class.