2021 Ford Ranger Test Drive: Everything You Need To Know

Hey there, truck enthusiasts! Ever wondered what makes the 2021 Ford Ranger tick? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a comprehensive test drive review! We'll explore everything from its rugged performance to its tech-savvy interior, and even touch upon what sets it apart in the competitive mid-size pickup truck market. So, whether you're a seasoned truck veteran or a first-time buyer considering the Ranger, this article is designed to give you the lowdown. Get ready to discover if the 2021 Ford Ranger is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and needs. We'll cover the engine, the driving experience, the interior comfort, and how it stacks up against the competition. Let's get this show on the road!

Unveiling the 2021 Ford Ranger: What's New and Exciting?

Alright, guys, before we jump into the driving experience, let's take a quick look at what the 2021 Ford Ranger brings to the table. This model year, Ford focused on refining an already successful formula. The core remains: a capable mid-size pickup known for its versatility and value. The 2021 Ranger primarily sees some updates to its trim levels and available packages, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience. While there aren't any radical design overhauls, the updates are thoughtful, focusing on improving the user experience and adding a touch of modern flair. You'll find a range of trims, from the base XL to the more luxurious Lariat, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities. Ford has also continued to offer various packages, allowing buyers to customize their Ranger to fit their specific needs, whether it's off-road adventures or everyday commuting. It's all about providing that sweet spot of functionality, reliability, and style. The 2021 Ford Ranger is ready to work, play, and everything in between. It has a great engine for power and fuel economy. The engine is connected to an automatic transmission that provides smooth and responsive gear changes, which helps the driver on the road.

Engine and Performance: Power Under the Hood

Let's pop the hood, shall we? The 2021 Ford Ranger comes equipped with a spirited 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, a turbocharged inline-four cylinder. This engine is a powerhouse, delivering a punchy 270 horsepower and a robust 310 lb-ft of torque. This means the Ranger has plenty of get-up-and-go for both city driving and highway cruising. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which is a real gem. It helps optimize power delivery and fuel efficiency. You'll find that acceleration is brisk and confident, and the transmission is always in the right gear, making the driving experience feel refined. Whether you're hauling cargo, towing a trailer, or just enjoying a spirited drive, the 2021 Ford Ranger is up for the challenge. The engine's responsiveness makes it a joy to drive. The Ranger offers impressive towing capabilities, making it a great choice for those who need a work truck. It can confidently tow trailers, boats, or other equipment. The engine's efficiency helps you save money at the pump. The Ranger's performance is further enhanced by its available four-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions, including off-road adventures and adverse weather conditions. The 2021 Ford Ranger is engineered to handle both on and off-road, which means it delivers a balance of power, efficiency, and capability. The Ranger's engine has a great combination of power and fuel efficiency.

Driving Experience: On the Road and Beyond

So, what's it like behind the wheel of the 2021 Ford Ranger? The driving experience is where this truck really shines. The Ranger offers a comfortable and composed ride, even on rough roads. The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, making long drives a breeze. Steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. The Ranger handles corners with confidence, making it surprisingly fun to drive. The cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, adding to the overall refinement of the driving experience. Whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the 2021 Ford Ranger provides a sense of control and capability. The four-wheel-drive system is particularly impressive, offering excellent traction and stability when the going gets tough. You can easily switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, depending on the conditions. The truck is also equipped with advanced driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhancing safety and convenience. The 2021 Ford Ranger is also easy to maneuver and park, which is a plus, considering its size. The Ranger's driving experience is a great blend of comfort, performance, and capability, making it a great choice for any driver.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Modern Cabin

Let's step inside, shall we? The 2021 Ford Ranger's cabin is designed to be both functional and comfortable. The materials used are durable and easy to clean, which is a big plus for a work truck. The seats are supportive and offer ample legroom and headroom, even for taller occupants. The infotainment system is user-friendly and packed with features. You'll find a touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford's SYNC infotainment system is known for its intuitive interface. It makes it easy to stay connected on the go. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with plenty of storage compartments for your belongings. You'll find a center console with cupholders, a glove box, and door pockets. The 2021 Ford Ranger also offers a range of available features, such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium sound system. These features elevate the interior's comfort and luxury. The Ranger also boasts advanced driver-assist technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking, adding to safety. The cabin of the 2021 Ford Ranger strikes a great balance between practicality and modern amenities, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The Ranger's infotainment system is very user-friendly.

Trim Levels and Customization: Tailoring Your Ranger

The 2021 Ford Ranger comes in a variety of trim levels. This allows you to choose the perfect configuration to suit your needs and budget. The base XL trim is the workhorse, offering essential features and a budget-friendly price. The XLT trim adds a few extra creature comforts and tech features, making it a popular choice for many buyers. The Lariat trim is the top-of-the-line option, offering premium features such as leather upholstery, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and advanced driver-assist technologies. Each trim level has its own unique style and features. The Ranger offers two cab configurations: the SuperCab and the SuperCrew. The SuperCab offers two doors and a small rear seat, while the SuperCrew has four doors and a more spacious rear seat, making it ideal for families or those who frequently carry passengers. Additionally, the Ranger offers various packages that allow you to customize your truck further. The FX4 Off-Road package enhances off-road capabilities with features such as an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and off-road-tuned suspension. The Sport Appearance package adds a more aggressive look with unique wheels, body-colored trim, and a black grille. You have plenty of options to tailor your 2021 Ford Ranger to fit your lifestyle and preferences. The Ranger is highly customizable.

Safety Features: Keeping You Protected

Safety is a top priority, and the 2021 Ford Ranger is equipped with a range of features to keep you and your passengers protected. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, and a pre-collision assist system with pedestrian detection. These features can help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The Ranger also offers available advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features provide an extra layer of protection, enhancing awareness on the road and reducing driver fatigue. The Ranger's robust construction and multiple airbags provide a solid foundation for safety. Ford's commitment to safety is evident in the Ranger's design and features. The 2021 Ford Ranger is a safe and reliable truck.

Competitive Comparison: How Does the Ranger Stack Up?

So, how does the 2021 Ford Ranger compare to its rivals in the mid-size pickup truck segment? Let's take a look. The Ranger competes with trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon. Compared to the Tacoma, the Ranger often boasts a more powerful engine and a more comfortable ride. The Tacoma, however, is known for its excellent off-road capabilities and strong resale value. The Ranger's engine delivers more power than some of its rivals. Against the Colorado and Canyon, the Ranger is competitive in terms of price and features. The Colorado and Canyon offer a wider range of engine options, including a diesel engine. But the Ranger's EcoBoost engine provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the best mid-size pickup truck for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. The 2021 Ford Ranger stands out for its well-rounded package of performance, comfort, and technology. It's a great choice for those seeking a versatile and capable truck. It competes with other trucks by offering a great package.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Before you make up your mind, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2021 Ford Ranger. On the plus side, the Ranger offers a powerful and efficient engine, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Ranger also has impressive towing and payload capacities. On the downside, the Ranger's base price may be higher than some of its competitors. The Ranger's rear seat in the SuperCab configuration can be tight for adults. However, the SuperCrew offers ample space. It is essential to weigh these factors to make an informed decision. The 2021 Ford Ranger is an excellent option for anyone in the market for a mid-size pickup truck. The Ranger delivers a great overall package.

Conclusion: Is the 2021 Ford Ranger Right for You?

So, after our deep dive into the 2021 Ford Ranger, is it the right truck for you? If you're looking for a versatile mid-size pickup that delivers a blend of performance, comfort, and technology, the answer is likely yes. The Ranger's powerful engine, comfortable interior, and user-friendly features make it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers. The 2021 Ford Ranger offers a great driving experience and is a solid and reliable truck. But before you make your final decision, take a test drive and experience the Ranger firsthand. See how it handles, how it feels, and if it meets your needs. Compare it to other trucks in its class and see which one suits your lifestyle. The 2021 Ford Ranger is a well-rounded and capable truck that will provide a great driving experience. It delivers a great overall package.