The Ford Ranger is great for those looking for a truck that has nice fuel-efficiency, hefty capabilities and economical pricing. As the years go on, more safety and technology features have been made standard, too. Read on for a breakdown of each generation and what perks they can offer you.
First Generation 1982-1991
Originating in 1982, the Ford Ranger was the first compact pickup truck released by Ford with a standard inline 4-cylinder or optional V-6 engine. Transmissions ranged from a 4 or 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. One of the trims introduced was the base Ranger S designed solely for those looking to haul heavy loads. Available with rear-wheel drive or as a 4x4, it could haul up to 1,600 pounds.
In 1986, Ford added the 2.9-liter V-6 that produced 140 horsepower SuperCab which has an extended cab and 125-inch wheelbase. Passenger capacity was also updated to 5 seats if buyers opted for the jump seats.
In 1987-89, the Ford Ranger GT was made available with a 2.9-liter V-6 and 5-speed manual transmission. 1989 saw changes in overall styling like a new grille, dashboard, hood, front fenders and glove box. The base engine was a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder with the 5-speed manual transmission and 100 hp.
To wrap up, 1991 added the Sport model that had aluminum wheels and an optional 3.0-liter V6 engine with 140 horsepower.
Second Generation (1993-1997)
One particularly notable redesign was the reduction in grille size that allowed for a smoother face and an overall rounded look with its fender flares. Engine options were: 2.3-liter 4-cylinder with 98 hp, a 3-liter V-6 with 145 hp and 4-liter V-6 with 160 hp. The sporty Splash model was also added this year along with features like a six-disc CD changer.
Except for some tweaks to the grille, the 1994 model didn’t see any other changes but 1995 increased horsepower to 112, transmissions saw an upgrade, a double-din stereo unit was added and a driver’s side airbag.
Third Generation (1998-2012)
This generation did a substantial overhaul to the SuperCab, making the wheelbase and cabin longer and the hood line lower. New seats were added along with a larger rear window for better visibility and increased legroom.
An electric variant of the Ford Ranger was made available from 1998-2002 with a 65 mile driving range; while the 2.3-liter engine was increased to 2.5 and produced 117 horsepower. Other options included a 3.0-liter V-6 engine and a larger 4.0-liter V-6. In 2001 the Ranger upgraded the latter to produce 207 hp. ABS on 2WD Rangers was also added. 2003 saw updates to the grille, front bumper and hood along with leather upholstery.
Though Ford continued to offer additional packages including the Sport and Off-Road packages, very little changes were made beyond that until after 2012.
Fourth Generation T6 (2019-PRESENT)
After a long hiatus, the Ford Ranger returned in 2019 with many configurations to compete. Available in a SuperCap model with 2x2 doors, extended cab with a six-foot bed or SuperCrew with a four-door, crew-size cab and five-foot bed, the Ranger was equipped to give the Toyota Tacoma and Chevy Colorado a run for their money. It also featured a new grille, frame-mounted steel bumper and an aluminum hood.
Now, it features a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine is among the most powerful in its class, along with its most up-to-date transmission: a 10-speed automatic with sport and tow/haul modes. In terms of performance, it reportedly provides quick acceleration and smooth shifting. A new optional Tremor off-road package was added for 2021 that increased the Ranger’s off-road abilities with upgrades like a lifted suspension, off-road tires, skid plates, a locking rear differential and more.
Conclusion
The Ford Ranger has come a long way through the years, only getting better. If you’re in the market for a truck with affordable pricing, good fuel economy, off-road readiness and hauling capabilities, the Ford Ranger may be the truck for you.