The 2024 and 2025 Ford Ranger: Core Changes and What They Mean

The newest Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that sits between Ford's smaller Maverick and larger F-150. The 2024 model year brought a significant redesign—the first major overhaul since 2019—with a new frame, updated engines, and a redesigned interior. The 2025 model year carries forward that platform with refinements to trim levels, technology, and pricing rather than structural changes.

If you are comparing the new Ranger to older models or to competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado or Toyota Tacoma, the redesign matters. The truck is now wider, has a larger bed, and offers more towing capacity than the previous generation. Engine choices have also shifted: Ford moved away from the 2.3-liter EcoBoost as the base engine and now offers a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 as standard, with a 5.0-liter V8 available on certain trims.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 Ranger is a complete redesign with a new frame, wider body, and larger bed than the 2019–2023 model, making it closer in size to the F-150.
  • Engine options changed: the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is now standard, and a 5.0-liter V8 is available on higher trims, replacing the previous 2.3-liter base engine.
  • Towing capacity increased to 7,500 pounds with the V6 and up to 12,000 pounds with the V8, depending on configuration and payload.
  • The interior was redesigned with a larger touchscreen (12 inches standard on most trims), updated climate controls, and more storage than the previous generation.
  • Pricing for the 2024 Ranger starts around $28,000 for the base SuperCrew model, though exact prices vary by region, dealer, and current incentives.

Engine and Transmission Options

The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is the standard engine across all 2024 and 2025 Ranger trims. It produces 290 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine is more powerful than the 2.3-liter it replaced and delivers better towing and payload performance without requiring premium fuel.

The 5.0-liter V8 is available on SuperCrew and SuperCab models in higher trim levels (typically Lariat and above). It produces 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, also with the 10-speed automatic. The V8 increases towing capacity significantly and appeals to buyers who prioritize power and hauling, though it comes with higher fuel consumption and a higher purchase price.

Both engines are paired with Ford's 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, which allows manual gear selection if desired. Four-wheel drive is available on all trims; rear-wheel drive is standard on base models. Fuel economy varies by engine, drivetrain, and configuration—the V6 with rear-wheel drive achieves better mileage than the V8 or four-wheel-drive versions.

Cab Styles and Bed Configurations

Ford offers the Ranger in three cab styles: SuperCrew (four full doors, seats five), SuperCab (two full doors and two smaller rear-hinged doors, seats five but with less rear legroom), and RegularCab (two doors only, seats three). The SuperCrew is the most popular and offers the most comfort for passengers, while the SuperCab and RegularCab allow for longer bed options.

Bed lengths are 5 feet, 6 feet, or 6.5 feet depending on cab style. SuperCrew models come standard with a 5-foot bed; SuperCab and RegularCab can be ordered with 6-foot or 6.5-foot beds. The bed redesign includes integrated tie-down cleats, a power outlet, and optional spray-in bedliner compatibility. Payload capacity ranges from 1,500 to 1,860 pounds depending on configuration.

Technology and Interior Features

The 2024 redesign introduced a 12-inch touchscreen as standard on most trims, running Ford's Sync 4 infotainment system. This is a significant upgrade from the 8-inch screen in the previous generation. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and higher trims add wireless connectivity for both. Voice commands, navigation, and climate control are integrated into the touchscreen interface.

Safety features on the new Ranger include Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, which varies by trim. Base models include blind-spot monitoring and rear parking sensors. Higher trims add adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, and automatic emergency braking. A 360-degree camera system is available on mid-range and higher trims, useful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Storage has improved: the new Ranger includes a larger center console, door pockets, and under-seat storage in SuperCrew models. Climate zones are available on higher trims, allowing driver and passenger to set different temperatures. Seat materials range from cloth on base models to leather on Lariat and King Ranch trims.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Ford structures the Ranger in five main trims: XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Raptor. The XL is the base model, focused on work use with minimal luxury features. The XLT adds comfort features like power windows, locks, and a better interior. The Lariat introduces leather seating, a power moonroof, and upgraded technology. King Ranch adds distinctive styling and premium materials. The Raptor is a high-performance variant with upgraded suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique exterior styling.

Pricing for the 2024 Ranger SuperCrew starts around $28,000 to $30,000 for the XL trim with rear-wheel drive, though this varies by region and current dealer incentives. Adding four-wheel drive increases the price by roughly $2,500 to $3,000. The V8 engine adds approximately $4,000 to $5,000 to the base price. Higher trims (Lariat, King Ranch, Raptor) range from $38,000 to $50,000 or more depending on options and engine choice. Exact pricing should be confirmed with local Ford dealers, as prices change seasonally and vary by location.

How the New Ranger Compares to Competitors

The redesigned Ranger competes directly with the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, and GMC Canyon in the mid-size pickup segment. Compared to the Colorado, the new Ranger offers more towing capacity with the V8 (12,000 pounds versus 7,700 pounds on the Colorado's V8) and a larger bed. The Tacoma has a reputation for reliability and off-road capability but offers less towing capacity and a smaller bed than the new Ranger.

The Ranger sits below the F-150 in Ford's lineup but is now closer in size and capability than it was in the previous generation. If you need more towing capacity or a longer bed than the Ranger offers, the F-150 is the next step up. If you want something smaller and more fuel-efficient, the Ford Maverick (a compact pickup) is an option, though it has lower towing capacity and a shorter bed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the towing capacity of the new Ranger?

The 3.0-liter V6 tows up to 7,500 pounds with a properly equipped trailer. The 5.0-liter V8 tows up to 12,000 pounds. Actual towing capacity depends on configuration, payload, and whether you are using two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Check the window sticker or owner's manual for your specific model.

Does the new Ranger come with all-wheel drive?

The Ranger offers four-wheel drive, not all-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive can be engaged or disengaged as needed. Rear-wheel drive is standard on base models. Four-wheel drive is available on all trims and is standard on higher trims like Lariat and King Ranch.

How does the 2024 Ranger differ from the 2025 model?

The 2024 and 2025 models share the same platform and engines. The 2025 model includes minor updates to trim availability, standard features, and pricing. No major mechanical changes separate them. If you are shopping between model years, focus on trim level and options rather than year-to-year differences.

What is the fuel economy of the new Ranger?

Fuel economy varies by engine, drivetrain, and cab style. The V6 with rear-wheel drive and SuperCrew cab achieves approximately 21 miles per gallon city and 26 highway. Four-wheel drive and the V8 reduce fuel economy. The EPA provides official estimates on the Monroeyes label; compare specific configurations on Ford's website or the EPA's fueleconomy.gov.

Can I get the Ranger with a diesel engine?

No. Ford does not offer a diesel engine in the current Ranger. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 and 5.0-liter V8 gasoline engines are the only options. If diesel efficiency is important to you, the F-150 offers a 3.0-liter EcoBoost diesel, though it is a larger truck.