Thought the Ranger couldn’t get any better? Think again. Our preview guide is all the insider information we could get our hands on for next year’s model of the Ford Ranger. This Ranger is set to undergo some big changes, particularly in its anticipated interior redesign. While some features may not see much improvement if you’ve already come to love what the 2023 model offers you (especially in the power department) overall all the upgrades we’ve seen so far are worth at least taking a serious look into what 2024 is going to bring to truck buyers.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- The gas rating of the 2024 model is expected to be like the 2023 model since the standard engine won't receive an upgrade.
- Towing and payload capacity is likely to remain the same, thanks again to similar engines.
- The major changes come from the redesigned interior cabin, featuring enhanced technological connectivity and better comfort.
- While the base engine remains the same, more engine options will be offered for those seeking an upgrade in the 2024 model.
AN UNCHANGED POWERTRAIN, BUT MORE OPTIONS
The current Ranger's standard engine has proven to be reliable, and if it’s not broken – don’t fix it. It is consistently outperforming the other trucks of a similar size we review in our comparison guides. The standard engine of the 2024 Ranger will be the turbocharged 2.3-liter V4, delivering 270 horsepower that we have come to appreciate.
However, there is news of a new twin-turbocharged engine available on higher trims. It’s a 2.7-liter V6 generating 315 horsepower and will offer an extra kick for those looking to take what this year’s Ranger offers but a step beyond. Both engines will offer the choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, positioning the 2024 Ranger as a strong off-roading vehicle. Towing capacity will remain the same, with the current Ranger capable of towing up to 7,500 pounds. However, the max payload size has gotten a slight raise from 1,711 pounds to 1,805 pounds.
INTERIOR OUTSHINES EXTERIOR UPDATES
Compared to the current model, the Ranger's exterior design won’t see too much change. One notable change in the 2024 model that we appreciate is the addition of a rear step making it easier to access the truck bed. It’s the interior where the new model truly stands out. It now embraces a more modern cabin feel with a textured dashboard, honeycomb air vents, and an emphasis on interior storage. There are plenty of hard plastic pockets and inserts hidden around the cabin that allows for quick storage access -without allowing it to get too cluttered. This includes a hidden glove box on the dashboard, larger door cubbies, and storage space under the rear seat. The 2024 model also offers an inch of additional cabin space, providing an even more comfortable seating arrangement for all five passengers. While the current Ranger solely prioritizes working hard, the new model shifts its focus towards passenger comfort and still working hard.
A BIG EMPHASIS ON NEW TECH FEATURES
Alongside the emphasis on passenger comfort, the new tech features further benefit the Ranger's 2024 appeal. Expect a 360-degree camera, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Reverse Assist, Post-Collision Braking, and more. Entertainment options include Apple and Android connectivity, as well as wireless charging capabilities.
A huge new addition (or subtraction) to the Ranger is that most of the traditional knobs and buttons have been replaced with digital controls, within a fully integrated and improved infotainment system. The infotainment system on the 2024 Ranger will offer a screen size of over 10 inches, capable of displaying all the now digitized information we thought would be compact, but now easily accessed. If you need some extra screen space, you’re able to go even larger if you choose a vertical orientation, exceeding 12 inches. Equipped with the Sync 4 system, the 2024 Ford Ranger enables control over various truck features through the Ford Pass app.
WELCOMED CHANGES ARE AHEAD
We’ve all come to expect that Ford is going to innovate year after year. And while the 2023 Ford Ranger has already proven its power in the market, the direction Ford is taking with the new model is certainly worth considering for an upgrade next year. The 2024 Ford Ranger keeps what is best about the power, comfort, and user-friendly features of the 2023 Ranger, while also adding all the best features that its fellow trims have to offer - into a brand-new truck that is worth getting excited about.