Ford’s 2024 Ranger lineup brings a major power upgrade to the midsize pickup world with the option of a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine. After years of offering only a single four-cylinder option in the U.S. market, Ford now gives buyers the choice of a brawnier V6 powertrain, aligning with other midsize trucks like the Nissan Frontier and Jeep® Gladiator that still offer six-cylinder options. The addition of this powerful engine not only makes the Ranger faster but also brings a more dynamic driving experience for those looking to boost their truck’s capabilities without stepping up to the specialized Ranger Raptor.
A Step Up in Power and Performance –
The 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 in the Ranger offers a compelling 315 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, making it one of the stronger engines in its class. For those who want even more power, Ford’s Ranger Raptor remains available with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that hits 405 horsepower, tailored for serious off-road enthusiasts. However, for everyday driving and versatile performance, the 2.7-liter V6 strikes a balance between capability and value, delivering a robust yet approachable upgrade from the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four.
Fuel Efficiency and Daily Driving –
Opting for the 2.7-liter engine does come with a slight decrease in fuel efficiency compared to the four-cylinder. The V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, while the four-cylinder provides 20/24/22 mpg. The slight fuel economy hit is offset by the increased power, which makes acceleration smoother, merging onto highways easier, and gives the Ranger an overall boost in driving dynamics. The 10-speed automatic transmission pairs seamlessly with the engine, ensuring smooth and quick gear changes for both city and highway driving.
Impressive Towing Capacity and Handling –
All 2024 Rangers, regardless of the engine choice, are rated to tow up to 7,500 pounds when equipped with Ford’s towing package, which provides a strong towing capability for those who need a truck for both work and recreational use. The Ranger’s handling remains stable, and even with a load, the truck holds up to its reputation as a solid hauler. Ford’s Advanced Towing Package Plus, an optional add-on, gives drivers added features like a trailer brake controller, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and adaptive cruise control with traffic sign recognition.
Interior Comforts and Technology –
Inside, the Ranger’s mid-tier XLT trim and higher come with a range of standard features that make daily commutes more comfortable. The interior includes supportive, quilted cloth seating, a roomy back seat, and plenty of storage. Both front seats are manually adjustable, yet the seating is comfortable and provides good support for long drives. Technology-wise, the Ranger includes an 8-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10-inch central touchscreen with Ford’s Co-Pilot360, which bundles driver-assistance features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking.
Ford’s EcoBoost V6 Legacy –
Ford’s 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 has a track record of reliability and performance, having debuted in the full-size F-150 back in 2015. Over the years, it has earned popularity for its combination of power and efficiency, with about a third of F-150 buyers selecting this engine in recent years. Now, the Ranger benefits from this well-established powerplant, bringing proven performance to a more compact, nimble package.
A Competitive Edge in the Midsize Truck Market –
As midsize trucks face rising competition, Ford’s decision to add the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 helps set the Ranger apart in a crowded market. The Ranger’s V6 option also highlights a trend among midsize trucks to offer more powertrain choices while larger engines slowly phase out. With impressive towing capacity, refined interior features, and the optional V6, the 2024 Ford Ranger meets the diverse needs of today’s truck buyers, whether for work, recreation, or simply a powerful daily driver.
