2018 FORD Ranger Double Cab 2.3L EcoBoost 10AT AWD (270 HP)

Vehicle Overview

After eight years, Ford Ranger returned to the U.S. market, trying to get back its place in the mid-size pickup segment.

Instead of researching a completely new product, the blue-oval brand just adapted the European/Australian Ranger. While that version was good on markets where the regular F-150s looked like monster trucks, in the U.S. was less impressive. Its old chassis and inline-four engines had to deal with Chevy Colorado or Toyota Tacoma, who was doing good on the U.S. market. But Ford knew it couldn’t lose.

With its SUV-like front fascia, enhanced by a skid plate under the bumper and LED daytime running lights on top of the headlights, the 2018 Ranger Double cab tried to be the family friend that could jump and help with anything. Its four-door cabin and separated bed proved to be the best choice for a mixed-use vehicle. It could successfully handle the family needs such as school runs and shopping, and on the weekend, it could haul a few thousand pounds up to a mountain lodge.

Inside, the carmaker installed a car-like dashboard with a SYNC infotainment system on top of the center stack. The instrument panel placed in front of the driver showed a center-mounted speedometer flanked by two TFT displays. Ford managed to take the driveshaft lower under the cabin, so there was no hassle on the rear seats. Three people could sit well on the bench, while the front seats offered plenty of room.

The carmaker installed a 2.3-liter EcoBoost (turbocharged) gasoline engine paired as standard with a ten-speed automatic gearbox. Two other turbo-diesel versions were available as well, especially for the Canadian market.