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2021 Ford Ranger review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Ford Ranger highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Turbocharged engine
  • Available off-road package
  • Many standard features

Cons

  • Infotainment system can be confusing
  • Styling can feel stale
  • Handling can feel unresponsive

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 24 highway, 22 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

All Ford Ranger years

What is new for the 2021 Ford Ranger?

  • Vinyl Seats features are now available as options on select trims.

2021 Ford Ranger trims

Curious how Ford Ranger trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

XL:

  • 270-hp, 310-lb-ft of torque 2.3L
  • Cloth Seats
  • Rear View Camera
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • View our Ford Ranger XL inventory

XLT:

  • Includes all features available on the XL
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Power Mirrors
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Sync System
  • View our Ford Ranger XLT inventory

Lariat:

Ford Ranger photos

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Ford Ranger

1. Tough as they come

This is a pickup that's built with ruggedness in mind. So whether you're accumulating miles on your daily commute or trekking through the wilderness, the 2021 Ford Ranger is ready for it all. The available FX4 off-road package adds a steel bash plate and additional skid plates, meaning even rocky terrain won't stop you. Base models come with robust double-wishbone front suspension to help optimize ride and handling over rough surfaces.

2. Haul all your toys

If you want to tow a boat or camper for a weekend away, the Ford Ranger is a good choice. While it might not be as powerful as some full-size pickups, you'll appreciate the towing power in a smaller package. The 270-hp 2.3L Ecoboost® engine can tow up to an estimated 7,500 lbs when properly equipped.

 When you're not heading off for an adventure, the Ford Ranger will happily tow your work equipment and trailer, too.

3. Ready for work and play

The versatility of this truck is where it shines. The smaller footprint makes it more practical for suburban living but you won't miss out on the practicality of a pickup. You might travel to the work site during the week or visit clients' houses, but come the weekend, you can load up ready for a camping trip with your family or a ski trip with your buddies.

4. Full of technology

The 2021 Ford Ranger comes standard with Ford's SYNC® 3 infotainment system that includes voice commands, smartphone integration, and more. If you're off on an adventure, the available 4G hotspot also allows you to stay connected, even when you're away from the city.

 On top of this, as you climb the trim levels, you'll get access to features such as available blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps.

5. A range of trims

The three trim levels of the 2021 Ford Ranger ensure you can find the one that suits you. The XL is the base model and is best suited to anyone looking for a capable car—but it's far from basic and the optional packages add creature comforts such as cruise control, rear privacy glass, and more. Step up to the mid-trim XLT for a wealth of tech features as standard, as well as access to additional equipment packages. At the top of the list is the luxurious Lariat with its standard ambient lighting, universal garage door opener, and heated leather front seats.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.4 out of 5

8 customer reviews
4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Ford Ranger an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ford Ranger 4th out of 8 among Midsize Trucks.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ford Ranger

Ford Ranger features and specs

XL 2WD 4D Crew Cab

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Windows
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Bed Cover
  • Bed Liner
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Cruise Control
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Mirrors
  • Running Boards
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Sync System
  • Tow Hitch
  • Vinyl Seats

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.3L

Horsepower

270

Torque (ft-lbs)

310

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

18

Wheelbase

126.8"

Overall length

210.8"

Width

77.8"

Height

71.1"

Leg room

F 43.1"/R 34.5"

Head room

F 41"/R 38.3"

Front tires

P255/70SR16

Rear tires

P255/70SR16

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

350/3500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2021 Ford Ranger FAQ

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