New Ford Ranger Debuts for Global Markets

The Ford Ranger made its return to the United States in 2019 after years of being away. The truck is a popular workhorse in international markets, which is precisely where Ford debuted the all-new Ranger today. After years of speculation, the Detroit-based automaker confirmed details for the international version of the Ranger. While it will be a bit before we see a made-for-America version, this is an excellent indication of things to come.

There’s more than a passing resemblance between the new Ranger and the also-new compact Maverick pickup. The midsize Ranger features bracket-shaped LED running lights and a more upright grille that looks like a Maverick on steroids. Though the badging and some bodywork may differ when the truck lands on U.S. soil, the Ranger we see will be more than similar.

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine currently available in the Ranger will carry over to the new truck, along with three diesel options for international markets. In the current truck, the gas engine produces 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.

Ford engineers pushed the front axle forward by 50 mm (almost two inches), which improved the truck’s approach angle and articulation. The rear suspension dampers are now outboard of the frame rails, which, according to the automaker, helps smooth the Ranger’s ride on-road and off. Two 4-wheel-drive systems are available: One with an electric shift-on-the-fly setup and one with automatic operation.

To make the Ranger more useful, Ford widened the truck by around two inches. The growth allows owners to haul large sheets of plywood or a full-size pallet in the bed. The truck’s bed features cargo tie-downs and a cargo management system that can carry different-sized gear and tools. A ruler and clamp pockets on the tailgate make the space a usable mobile workbench, and 360-degree zone lighting illuminate nearly every part of the truck’s exterior. The Ranger’s bumper now features a step for easier entry to the bed.

Since the design of the Ranger we got here in the States was already several years old when it arrived, the current truck’s tech leaves much to be desired. That changes with the new Ranger, where a 10.1- or 12-inch infotainment screen commands attention in the center stack. Both units run Sync 4, Ford’s latest infotainment software. The system offers over-the-air updates, voice recognition, and FordPass App connectivity to allow owners to interact with the truck from a mobile phone.

Ford is the source of information for this article. It was accurate on November 24, 2021, but it may have changed since that date.