*All information in this article has been revised and updated for the latest 2021-2022 models.
The Ford Ranger returned in 2019 after a long hiatus overseas to critical acclaim. This compact pickup truck now enters its second year since returning and continues to benefit from Ford’s constant improvements. Off-roaders rejoice because the Ranger has something for you. If you’re interested in creature comforts and quality-of-life improvements, the 2022 Ranger has those too. Those who are interested in injecting more personality into their truck are also going to be pretty pleased.
What’s New This Year?
Long-time fans will get a treat as the new 2022 Ford Ranger makes tribute to its 90’s predecessors with the revival of the Splash appearance package. The regular Splash package is orange with black body-side graphics and matte black 18-inch wheels with a 12-spoke design for approximately $1,495. Orange and black accents will also be spotted throughout little details on the exterior such as along the grille. The interior will also feature special orange contrast stitching and specially designed seats, complemented by numerous other details that tie it all together. Splash Limited Editions are also rumored to be introduced one by one in exclusive paint colors in small quantities so, stay tuned!
In other news, plenty of optional features have become standard across all trim levels. We’re talking dual-zone climate control, satellite radio and 8-inch touchscreen. Don't forget, the Ranger now offers an accessory pickup box extender and three new exterior colors: Iconic Silver, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, and Race Red.
Why Buy the 2022 Ranger?
Most who go for a truck choose the Ford F-150. The numbers add up to the F-150 being the number-one bestseller in America but that doesn’t mean the Ranger’s big sibling is better for everyone. After all, the Ranger is more affordable, more maneuverable, and more fuel efficient while still towing and hauling an impressive load for this smaller class.
Affordable
Let’s look at the price for a moment. The Ford Ranger is $3,000 less expensive than the starting price for an F-150 while offering plenty of options. The base model is the Ranger XL, which offers forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking, SYNC 3 infotainment, and FordPass Connect, and rearview camera. Upgrade to the Ranger XLT to add the Co-Pilot 360 suite of safety features and cruise control. The Ranger Lariat throws in LED headlights and taillights, push-start button, heated side mirrors, and 8-way power-adjustable heated front seats.
Maneuverable and Light
The 2022 Ford Ranger measures just 17.5 feet long and 6.5 feet wide. That translates to a nimble truck that can maneuver, turn, and roll through alleyways that the F-150 simply couldn’t. The heaviest Ranger weighs under 4,500 pounds, meaning, in addition to the maneuverability, this Ford mid-size pickup gets great fuel economy. The 2021 Ranger gets 21 city miles and 26 highway miles per gallon as a point of reference until the EPA releases estimates for the 2022 release. Don’t go too far as we wait for the rest of this impressive contender’s specs and capabilities.
