In this article 15 sections
The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT is the mid-level trim of the redesigned Ranger. This review covers its engines, EPA mpg, towing, interior tech, safety rating, NHTSA recalls and what to check when buying one used, plus how it compares with the Tacoma and Ranger Raptor.
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.
Here are 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. Specifically, the front grille is wider. The C-shaped headlights look modern and sharp. It no longer looks like the old 2000 Ford Ranger you might remember. As a result, 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. Eruption Green is one of the bolder color choices.
Power and Performance
Two EcoBoost engines are offered.
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 has much more torque. 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 was redesigned for 2024, so it is very different from the 2023 Ford Ranger. The seats are comfortable for long trips.
The star of the show is the screen. A 10.1-inch vertical center touchscreen is standard, and a 12-inch screen is available. 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. For a full comparison of cabins and tech, see our Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Ranger guide.
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. You can load the bed with mulch or furniture. Speaking of the bed, let’s talk about dimensions.
The bed is about 5 feet (roughly 60 inches) long. However, at about 48 inches between the wheel wells, it can carry 4-foot-wide sheets of plywood flat. 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 is the main rival. The Tacoma is legendary for reliability. However, the Ranger’s 270-hp base engine is stronger than the base Tacoma’s 228-hp setup. Ride and noise impressions vary by trim and tires, so drive both back to back.
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. Its tow rating is far below the Ranger’s 7,500 pounds. The Ranger is a true body-on-frame truck.
Vs. Ranger Raptor
The 2024 Ranger Raptor is the off-road flagship. It has a 3.0-liter engine with 405 horsepower. It has Fox Live Valve shocks for high-speed off-roading, but it costs much 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. As a result, 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
A 2024 Ranger is now mostly a used or certified pre-owned purchase.
- Use the Configurator: Go online to the Ford build and price tool. You can pick your color and options. Check which off-road packages are offered for the model year you want.
- Check Local Dealers: Large dealers often have better stock. Checking several dealers’ online inventory can save you time.
- Look for Deals: Ask about Ford certified pre-owned coverage and current financing rates.
2024 vs. Newer Ford Ranger
The 2024 was the big redesign, and later years kept the same engines. The EPA lists the 2026 Ranger with the same 2.3L, 2.7L V6 and Raptor 3.0L engines, so a 2024 is not far behind a new truck mechanically.
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 Bronco Wildtrak: If you want an SUV that drives like a Ranger, look at the Bronco. The Bronco Raptor is the extreme version, while the Wildtrak is trail-focused.
- Ford Everest Wildtrak: This is an SUV version of the Ranger sold in other countries, but not in the US.
- Small pickup trucks: If the Ranger feels too big, look at the Ford Maverick compact pickup.
Safety Features
The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT has Ford Co-Pilot360 driver aids. NHTSA rates the 2024 Ranger SuperCrew 4 stars overall, with 5-star frontal and side ratings and 3 stars for rollover.
- 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: 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
The redesigned Ranger is aimed at daily driving as much as work.
The high driving position gives a good view of the road.
The 10-speed transmission keeps the RPMs low at high speeds. This helps with gas mileage. The EPA rates the 2.3L at 21/25/22 mpg (2WD) or 20/24/22 (4WD), and the 2.7L V6 4WD at 19/23/20.
Buying a Used 2024 Ford Ranger XLT? What to Check
The 2024 Ranger has a long recall list for a first-year redesign. NHTSA lists 13 campaigns for the 2024 Ranger; not every truck is affected, so check the VIN.
NHTSA recalls
- 24V770 and 25V310: the front upper control arm ball joint nut may be missing or loose, which can let the control arm detach.
- 25V164: the transmission valve body may have been machined incorrectly, which can cause loss of reverse gear or unexpected gear changes.
- 24V848 and 25V597: fuel vapor line clearance and high-pressure fuel pump bolts, both of which can lead to fuel leaks.
- 25V541: side curtain air bags may tear during deployment.
- 24V597 and 25V237: power windows may not auto-reverse (25V237 covers trucks repaired incorrectly the first time).
- Others: rearview camera software (25V315), engine block heater (25V685), integrated trailer brake control (26V104), sun visor wiring (26V238) and front seat pivot bolt (26V268).
Run the VIN at NHTSA and ask for the dealer records showing each repair.
What changed after 2024
The Ranger is still sold new. The EPA lists 2026 Ranger models with the same 2.3L four-cylinder, 2.7L V6 and Raptor 3.0L V6, and ratings close to the 2024.
Practical checks
- Confirm the engine: the 2.7L V6 has 400 lb-ft and is the better tower.
- Check whether the FX4 Off-Road Package (skid plates, locking rear differential, Trail Control) is fitted.
- Look for trailer wear and confirm the Trailer Tow Package if you plan to tow near 7,500 pounds.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Ford Ranger XLT balances price, power and tech well, and it is a big step up from the 2022 Ford Ranger.
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 buy one used, check the recall list below first.
FAQs
What engines are available for the 2024 Ranger XLT?
What is the maximum towing capacity?
Does the 2024 Ranger XLT get good gas mileage?
How large is the truck bed?
Is the Ranger better than the Toyota Tacoma?
Does the 2024 Ford Ranger have recalls?
What safety rating does the 2024 Ford Ranger have?
Related guides: explore pickup truck reviews and Ford Maverick Hybrid: A Family Pickup Done Right.
Specs, prices and safety ratings change between model years and trims. Verify them for the exact 2024 Ford you are considering:
Sources
- FuelEconomy.gov: 2024 Ford Ranger
- Hagerty: 2024 Ranger overview (towing, payload, bed)
- Toyota: 2024 Tacoma
Morgan Reyes is the founder and editor-in-chief of NextCarReview, which Morgan launched in August 2024. A 2022 graduate of Columbia University, Morgan is based in New York and writes and edits the site’s reviews, comparisons and buying guides. Morgan does not road-test vehicles. Every article is built from published primary data: EPA FuelEconomy.gov ratings, NHTSA crash ratings, recalls and owner complaints, IIHS results, and manufacturer specifications and pricing, with each figure cited and checked before publication. Contact: admin@nextcarreview.com
