The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT is finally here. It brings a fresh look, a strong engine, and smart tech. This midsize truck is ready for work and play. In this review, we explore its specs, interior, and towing power. We also compare it to the fierce Ranger Raptor. Is this the right truck for you? Let’s find out.
The midsize truck world is changing fast. For a long time, choices were limited. However, the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT has arrived to shake things up. It is not just a work truck anymore.
In fact, it is a daily driver, a family hauler, and an adventure machine. If you are looking for a new Ford Ranger, this might be the sweet spot in the lineup.
It sits right in the middle. Specifically, it is fancier than the XL but more affordable than the Lariat. Plus, it is much cheaper than the beastly Ford Ranger Raptor.
Therefore, is it worth your money? Let’s dive into the details.
A Bold New Look
First, let’s talk about the design. The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT looks tough. It borrows style from its big brother, the Ford F150. For instance, the front grille is wider. Additionally, the C-shaped headlights look modern and sharp. It no longer looks like the old 2000 Ford Ranger you might remember. Consequently, this is a grown-up truck.
The XLT trim adds nice touches. You get body-color bumpers and fog lamps. Thus, it looks cleaner than the base model. If you want to stand out, you can pick cool colors. Some people joke about wanting a green power ranger, but the Eruption Green paint on this truck is genuinely stunning. As a result, it turns heads on the street.
Power and Performance
What is under the hood? Ideally, this is where things get exciting.
The standard engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost. It is a four-cylinder engine, but don’t let that fool you. In fact, it punches out 270 horsepower. It also gives you 310 lb-ft of torque. For most drivers, this is plenty. Therefore, it moves the truck quickly. Merging on the highway is easy.
The New V6 Option
However, there is big news for 2024 Ford Ranger XLT specs. You can now choose a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. This engine is borrowed from the Ford F150. It makes 315 horsepower and a massive 400 lb-ft of torque.
So, if you tow heavy trailers, get the V6. It feels stronger. Furthermore, it sounds better too. Both engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It shifts smoothly. You won’t feel it hunting for gears.
Interior and Tech
Step inside the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT. The cabin feels completely different from the 2023 Ford Ranger. The materials feel nicer. Moreover, the seats are comfortable for long trips.
The star of the show is the screen. The XLT comes with a large center touchscreen. It is vertically oriented, like a tablet. You can use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto wirelessly. Therefore, no more messy cables.
There is also a digital gauge cluster behind the steering wheel. It shows your speed, navigation, and truck status clearly. It feels high-tech. To clarify, this is a huge upgrade over the Toyota Tacoma 2025, which is playing catch-up in some trims.
Space for the Family
The back seat is roomy enough for kids or adults. You can fit a car seat easily. Meanwhile, under the rear seat, there is hidden storage. You can stash tools or gear there safely.
Towing and Hauling Capacity
Trucks need to do truck things. Luckily, the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT does not disappoint.
- Max Towing: 7,500 pounds.
- Max Payload: Roughly 1,805 pounds (depending on options).
This means you can tow a boat or a camper. Additionally, you can load the bed with mulch or furniture. Speaking of the bed, let’s talk about dimensions.
The bed is about 5 feet long. For context, 6ft in inches is 72 inches. This bed is slightly shorter, around 60 inches. However, it is wide enough between the wheel wells to fit flat sheets of plywood if you use the designated slots. It also has a power outlet in the back. Thus, you can charge your tools or power a laptop while camping.
Ford Ranger XLT vs. The Competition
How does it stack up against others? This is the big question.
Vs. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma 2025 is the main rival. The Tacoma is legendary for reliability. However, the Ranger often feels more powerful in the base engine. The Ranger’s cabin is also quieter. The Tacoma can be bouncy. On the other hand, the Ranger rides smoother on pavement.
Vs. Ford Maverick
Maybe you are looking at the smaller Ford Maverick 2025. The Maverick is great for city driving. It gets amazing gas mileage. But it is a unibody truck. Therefore, it cannot tow as much as the Ranger. If you need to tow 7,000 pounds, the Maverick cannot help you. The Ranger is a true body-on-frame truck.
Vs. Ranger Raptor
Everyone loves the 2024 Ranger Raptor. It has a 3.0-liter engine with 405 horsepower. It has Fox shocks and jumps over dunes. But it costs way more. The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT is the sensible choice. You save money, and you still get a very capable 4×4 system. Unless you are racing in the desert, the XLT is enough.
Comparison Table: Ranger XLT vs. Ranger Raptor
Here is a quick look at the differences.
| Feature | 2024 Ford Ranger XLT | 2024 Ranger Raptor |
| Engine | 2.3L I-4 or 2.7L V6 | 3.0L V6 Twin-Turbo |
| Horsepower | 270 hp / 315 hp | 405 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft / 400 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Suspension | Standard Road/Off-road | Fox Live Valve Shocks |
| Price | Affordable Mid-Range | Premium High-End |
| Best For | Daily Driving & Towing | High-Speed Off-Roading |
Off-Road Capability
You can take the XLT off-road. Specifically, you should add the FX4 Off-Road Package. This gives you skid plates to protect the engine. In addition, it adds an electronic locking rear differential.
This is crucial for mud or sand. It helps both rear wheels spin at the same speed. Consequently, you won’t get stuck easily. It also includes “Trail Control.” Think of it like cruise control for off-roading. You steer, and the truck handles the throttle and brakes.
Buying Advice: How to Get One
Finding a Ford Ranger for sale is easier now. Inventory is improving.
- Use the Configurator: Go online to the Ford build and price tool. You can pick your color and options. Do you want the Ford Tremor package? Check if it is available for 2025.
- Check Local Dealers: Large dealers often have better stock. For example, Bill Brown Ford is known for having a lot of inventory. Checking big dealers can save you time.
- Look for Deals: Sometimes there are rebates on the 2024 Ford Ranger XL or XLT. Ask the dealer about financing rates.
Should You Wait for the 2025 Ford Ranger?
The 2025 Ford Ranger will likely be very similar to the 2024 model. The 2024 was the big redesign. So, buying now is safe. You won’t miss out on major changes next year. However, if you want a Ford Maverick 2025, that model is getting a refresh soon.
Other Ford Options
If the Ranger isn’t quite right, Ford has other trucks.
- Ford F150 for sale: If you need a bigger backseat or a longer bed (real 6ft or 8ft), get the F-150. It is wider and tows more.
- Ford Bronc Wildtrak: If you want an SUV that drives like a Ranger, look at the Bronco. The Bronco Raptor 2024 is insane, but the Wildtrak is great for trails.
- Ford Everest Wildtrak: This is an SUV version of the Ranger sold in other countries. We wish we had it here!
- Small pickup trucks: If the Ranger feels too big, go back to the 2024 Ford Maverick XL. It is the king of small pickup trucks.
Safety Features
Families care about safety. Fortunately, the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT has Ford Co-Pilot360. This is a suite of safety tech.
- Pre-Collision Assist: It warns you if you are about to hit something. It can even brake for you.
- Lane-Keeping System: It nudges the steering wheel if you drift out of your lane.
- Blind Spot Info: This is standard on XLT. It tells you if a car is in your blind spot. It even accounts for the length of your trailer if you are towing.
The Driving Experience
Driving the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT is pleasant. The steering is light. Therefore, it makes parking easy. The suspension soaks up bumps well.
It does not feel like an old truck. Instead, it feels like a tall SUV. The view of the road is excellent. You sit high up. The mirrors are big. Consequently, visibility is great.
On the highway, wind noise is low. You can talk to your passengers without shouting. The 10-speed transmission keeps the RPMs low at high speeds. This helps with gas mileage. Expect around 20-22 mpg on the highway, depending on how you drive.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT is a fantastic truck. It balances price, power, and tech perfectly. It is better than the 2022 Ford Ranger in almost every way.
It competes hard against the Toyota Tacoma. It offers more towing than the Maverick. It is more practical than a Ford Raptor 2023 for daily use.
If you need a truck that fits in your garage but works like a beast, this is it. It handles the daily commute and the weekend camping trip with ease.
FAQs
It comes standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, with a powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 available as an option.
When properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Package, it can tow a class-leading 7,500 pounds.
Yes, the standard engine delivers approximately 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway (2WD).
The bed is roughly five feet long and wide enough to fit flat plywood sheets between the wheel wells.
The Ranger generally offers a smoother ride, higher towing limits, and a more spacious, comfortable cabin.
