2020 Ford Ranger review

1. Rugged construction

If you need a midsize pickup that you can put through the wringer, the 2020 Ford Ranger can take a beating. Every Ranger sits on a fully-boxed, high-strength steel frame with six rugged cross-members that work together with the steel front bumper and a frame-mounted rear tow bar to provide a solid foundation for on- and off-road adventures. A double-wishbone front suspension with rugged coil springs and front monotube shocks optimize the pickup's ride and handling, while rear parabolic leaf springs absorb weight on the rear axle. The result is a truck that has all the toughness you need to take it on outdoor explorations.

2. Robust turbocharged performance

All 2020 Ford Rangers run off a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder that makes 270 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. It connects to a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission that enhances gear progressions and delivers smooth, quick shifting. The engine also features Ford's Auto Start-Stop technology, which helps the pickup return an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway when equipped with 2WD.

3. Driver-focused technologies

The 2020 Ford Ranger matches its rugged personality with smart technology that inspires confidence when behind the wheel. XLT and Lariat trims come standard with a SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, as well as two smart-charging USB ports to keep your devices juiced up for long journeys. Ford Co-Pilot 360™ Technology also adds key driving aids to the 2020 Ranger, like a forward-collision warning system with an automatic emergency braking system on XL and higher trims, or lane-keeping assistance and a blind-spot monitoring system on XLT and Lariat trims. If you want built-in navigation with voice recognition, a Technology package is also optional on XLT and higher trims in 2020.

4. Comfortable cabin

Roomy and comfortable, the 2020 Ranger is a nice way to travel. SuperCrew models offer seating for five passengers with a three-passenger rear bench, which comes in handy if you need to bring kids or crew along for the ride. In the floor, a covered under-seat storage area is the perfect spot to store tools or personal belongings out of sight, plus there are ample cupholders throughout the cabin. XL and XLT trims come standard with cloth upholstery or there is optional vinyl upholstery for easy clean-up after a day on dusty trails. For extra luxury, the Lariat adds leather upholstery and eight-way power heated front seats.

5. Plenty of package options

The 2020 Ford Ranger offers various packages that enhance the pickup's rugged good looks, like an available Chrome Package that adds chrome bumpers, halogen fog lamps, and black front tow hooks, or the STX Package with 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels and STX pickup box decals. There are also off-road packages to up the 2020 Ranger's capability on tough terrain, including FX2 and FX4 Off-Road packages. Both add-ons feature off-road-tuned suspensions and other enhancements designed to let you slice through sand dunes and challenge rocky conditions without breaking a sweat.

2020 Ford Ranger video review

In this video, Ryan ZumMallen from Edmunds reviews the 2020 Ford Ranger XLT to see how it stacks up against these competitors and helps you decide if a used Ranger is the right truck for you. Ryan goes over everything you need to know about the midsize 2020 Ranger pickup, highlights the different trims available, and talks about what he likes and dislikes about it. Is this used Ford Ranger the best midsize truck for the money? We answer this question and more in our review of the 2020 Ford Ranger.