2024 Ford Ranger

Among Ford’s SUVs and pickups, the smallest options usually earn our highest ratings. Consumer Reports has recommended the Mustang Mach-E EV, the thrilling Mustang coupe and convertible, and the Maverick, a small pickup truck available with a hybrid powertrain. Most other vehicles, however, score low in our road tests and have average to below average reliability. With some exceptions, used Fords can be a risk. The Ford F-150 pickup combines true truck capabilities with quiet, roomy cabins, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. However, our tests found that recent F-150s have a stiff ride, unresponsive handling, and below average reliability. The Lightning, an EV version of the F-150, drives better and is faster than its gasoline equivalent. The Bronco SUVs has exceptional off-road ability and classic boxy styling, but suffers from issues like wind noise and long stopping distances.

The redesigned Ranger may look like the outgoing model, but it is slightly larger, with a screen-filled modern interior, a wider bed, and a generous suite of advanced safety features. There is now just a single body style, the crew cab, offered in two- and four-wheel drive. The base 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine again has 270 hp. The midlevel option is a more powerful 315-hp, 2.7-liter turbocharged V6. The new off-road-focused Raptor has a 455-hp, 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. All engines use a 10-speed automatic transmission. The instrument cluster is either the standard 8-inch or the upgraded 12.4-inch display. Likewise, the center infotainment screen is either 10.1-inch or upgraded 12-inch display with the latest Sync 4A system. The standard active safety features include AEB with pedestrian detection. BSW, RCTW, active parking assistance and trailer assistance are available.