Is the 2023 Ford Ranger very different from the 2022 Ford Ranger? Besides a slightly higher price tag, the Ranger remains the same. That is, both trucks deliver the strong performance and off-road capabilities you’d hope to find in an all-American pickup. If you’re shopping for Ford’s midsize truck at your local dealership, these model years are equally excellent options.
Key Takeaways
- The new 2023 Ranger has a slightly higher price tag than the outgoing truck.
- Both pickups deliver the same turbocharged powertrain with available four-wheel drive.
- Choose from three off-road packages to create a supremely capable 2022 or 2023 Ranger.
- Each of these Rangers is available as three trim models with increasing levels of luxury: XL, XLT, and Lariat.
Price Tag
The 2023 Ford Ranger starts at $27,400, a slightly higher price than last year’s model, with its MSRP of $25,980.
Performance
Both the 2022 and 2023 Ford Ranger utilize the same powertrain:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (270 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive
Any trim model can be upgraded with four-wheel drive, making it ready for the trail. A variety of off-road-ready packages (see below) is also available for both Ranger model years.
The Ranger’s turbocharged engine is known for its punchy power. This midsize truck is especially fun to drive when you put it in Sport mode, giving you quick access to the Ranger’s 270 horsepower.
Off-Road Capabilities
Thanks to a variety of off-road packages, any Ranger can be primed to hit the trail. The FX2 and FX4 packages are available for any trim model. However, the more substantive Tremor package is only available for the XLT and Lariat trim models! Let’s take a look at what’s included with each package.
FX2 Off-Road Package
Available for rear-wheel-drive Rangers, the FX2 package improves your trail prospects with traction-boosting gear and a suspension that’s ready for some serious jolts.
- Off-road tires
- Off-road-tuned suspension
- Electronic-locking rear differential
- Front under-body guard
- Air dam deletion
FX4 Off-Road Package
Similar to the FX2 package, the FX4 package is available for four-wheel drive Rangers. This package also comes with an off-road cluster screen so you can take in your pitch, roll, and steering angle data in one quick glance.
- Off-road tires
- Off-road-tuned suspension
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Skid plates
- Terrain Management System
- Ford Trail Control
Tremor Off-Road Package
For the most off-road-ready factory Ranger ever to hit the trail, you need the Tremor package. In addition to an upgraded off-road-tuned suspension and bigger all-terrain tires, the Tremor package adds unique styling and exclusive seating with suede inserts.
- 32-ich all-terrain tires
- Lifted suspension with off-road-tuned FOX 2.0 monotone dampers and rear piggyback reservoirs
- Specially tuned front coilover and rear leaf springs
- Six auxiliary power switches to manage accessories (including winches, air compressors, light bars)
- Magnetic-painted wheels
- Hoop-style steps
- Rear recovery hooks
- Exclusive seating with Mike suede inserts
- Black interior accents
- Optional hood and body graphics
Comfort Features & Technology
These Ranger model years are available as the same three trims: the base XL, mid-range XLT, and cushy Lariat. Each is equipped with more features than the model that came before it, but each also comes with a slightly higher price tag!
The entry-level XL not only comes with the lowest price tag, but it’s also loaded with everything you need for modern comfort. That means you’ll enjoy power accessories, air conditioning, and roomy, supportive seating! Tech features include a four-speaker sound system, a USB port, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The XL’s forward collision mitigation system senses a potential crash and can apply the brakes automatically to help reduce damages.
For a slight price hike, the XLT adds to the standard lineup with more safety aids, infotainment upgrades, and comfort features. For instance, the XLT’s dual-zone automatic climate control system creates two perfect temperature zones for front-seat passengers. And the SYNC 3 infotainment system provides an 8-inch central touchscreen, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Extra safety aids include lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring.
Choose the Lariat for a more luxurious drive. This Ranger adds to the above features with LED headlights and leather seating. But it’s also available with the exclusive 501A package, which creates a truly upscale ride with a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, remote ignition, and more.
Which Ranger Should You Choose?
If you’re lucky enough to discover the perfect 2022 Ranger at your local dealership, you can grab it at a great price! However, spending a little more on the 2023 Ranger means you can special-order your truck, selecting the trim model and all of the equipment you want!