Ford officially opened its order books for the 2019 Ford Ranger and it’s got Toyota and their Tacoma quaking in their boots.
It’s been eight long years since America’s seen a mid-size truck with a blue oval rolling off factory floors but those days are coming to an end. According to Automotive News in an exclusive report direct from Ford earlier today (Aug. 14, 2018) they’ve officially opened the order books for dealers for the 2019 Ford Ranger and with a new 20149 Ford Ranger XL SuperCab starting off at $24,300 plus $1,095 worth of mandatory fees tacked on.
Not surprisingly, Ford priced the 2019 Ranger similarly to the king of the mid-size, the Toyota Tacoma. As mentioned, the base 4×2 Supercab XL with a six-foot box will run you $25,395. Go all the way to the top trim 4×4 Super Crew Lariat with five-foot box and that’ll set you back $39,480. Tack on the optional FX4 offroad package and you’re well within $40,000 and some change.
Three trim levels are available: XL, XLT, and Lariat paired to SuperCab and SuperCrew with 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrain configuration.
According to Ranger5G.com, the most important option packages include the
- FX4 Off-Road package
- STX appearance package
- and the trailer tow package.
As mentioned, only one engine and transmission combo is offered, a 2.3L Ecoboost paired to a class-leading 10-speed automatic. Although no official power figures have hit the web keep in mind that this 2.3L Ecoboost is capable of between 280-385 HP and 310-370 lb-ft in Ford’s list of cars carrying this powerplant including the Explorer, Ecoboost Mustang, and Focus RS. I expect this 2.3L Ecoboost to put out 300 HP and 310 lb-ft, enough for everyday driving and serious tow rating duties.
Ford will not be beaten by the Toyota Tacoma on its home turf so expect this Ford Ranger to outperform Tacoma in every single way, that includes power, MPG, and most importantly tow ratings.
Tacoma equipped with a class IV towing hitch receiver is capable of towing 6800 pounds. Colorado and Canyon can tow up to 7,700 pounds with a diesel. Equipped properly, expect the Ford Ranger to tow somewhere around 7,000 pounds thanks to no diesel option.
MPG will hover around 20 city/ 25 highway because of the turbo engine.
The 2019 Ford Ranger is here and ready to take the fight to Toyota and Chevrolet. Not so much Honda, their Ridgeline is doing its own thing.
