The new
2019 Ford Ranger midsize pickup truck will hit the road with new exterior design, a high-strength steel frame, and a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine mated to the only 10-speed automatic transmission in the segment.
The engine is designed for efficiency and capability with direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger and 16-valve design. For added durability, the engine features a forged-steel crankshaft and connecting rods along with chain-driven dual overhead cams.
The Ford Ranger comes in entry-level XL, mid-level XLT and high-level Lariat trim series with available Chrome and Sport appearance as well as FX Off-Road packages, and in SuperCab or SuperCrew cab configurations.
The FX4 Off-Road Package provides additional trail capability with off-road-tuned shocks, all-terrain tires, a frame-mounted heavy-gauge steel front bash plate, frame-mounted skid plates and FX4 badging.
This package also boasts a Terrain Management System similar to that of the F-150 Raptor. It includes four drive modes – normal; grass, gravel and snow; mud and ruts; and sand. The system can shift to automatically change throttle responsiveness, transmission gearing and vehicle controls.
The FX4 Off-Road Package also introduces Ford’s Trail Control technology which the company descirbes as cruise control for the highway but designed for low-speed and rugged terrain. Trail Control takes over acceleration and braking – sending power and braking to each individual wheel allowing drivers to focus on steering along the course.
Power is distributed through Dana AdvanTEK independent front and solid rear axles on both 2WD and 4WD models with an available electronic-locking rear axle (standard on FX2 and FX4) for increased all-terrain traction. Ranger four-wheel-drive versions feature 2-high, 4-high and 4-low.
Production of the 2019 Ford Ranger begins late this year at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant.