2024 Ford Ranger, 405-HP Ranger Raptor Finally Coming to U.S.

• The 2024 Ford Ranger grows in width, interior quality, engine choices, and storage space.

• $58,555 Ranger Raptor gains a 405-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, 33-inch tires, and similar hardware as the Bronco Raptor.

• Both trucks are assembled in Michigan and will be available near the end of summer 2023.

The 2024 Ford Ranger and 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor continue the much-needed revitalization of the mid-size-truck segment. One might argue they were first to the party, having been revealed globally a few years ago. While we knew we weren't getting the turbo-diesel engine or manual transmission, we wondered how otherwise the U.S.-spec truck would shape up. Now we've now been up close, sat inside, and learned more about the inner workings of both trucks.

Adios, Extended Cab and Long Bed

Like the Jeep Gladiator and new Chevrolet Colorado, the 2024 Ranger has eschewed different cab and bed sizes, as it's available only with a four-door crew cab and a five-foot bed.

Riding on an upgraded version of Ford T6 platform that also underpins the Bronco, the wheelbase has grown 1.9 inches, but overall length is basically unchanged (technically, it shrunk by 0.2 inch). In effect the front wheels have moved closer to the front bumper, reducing its overhang by 1.9 inches and improving approach angle.

The rear suspension remains leaf springs on the Ranger (see Raptor details below), but the shocks have moved outboard closer to the wheels, making them less prone to encountering trail debris.

Overall width is up 2.3 inches, netting improvements in cab space and bed storage, which can now accommodate a four-foot sheet of drywall between the wheelhouses.

More Speed, Please

We don't recall complaining about the previous generation's powertrain. Last we tested it, the turbo-four and 10-speed automatic pairing netted 60 mph acceleration in 6.4 seconds. Apparently, Ford thinks that simply isn't good enough, and we can't argue with that kind of thinking.

While the entry-level XL ($35,755) retains the 2.3-liter four with 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, the XLT and Lariat offer the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 from the Bronco and F-150. Here, the V-6 is good for 315 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, which is similar to the Bronco's rating on regular fuel. Regardless of the engine, the transmission remains a 10-speed automatic.

Two- and four-wheel drive systems are available, but the latter doesn't come with a locking rear differential. We wouldn’t be surprised to see that offered on an upcoming, yet unannounced, Tremor variant.

Big Storage, Bigger Screens

The 2024 Ranger's interior introduces welcome improvements and upgrades. The size of the base center screen has increased from eight inches to 10.1 inches, and a large, vertically orientated 12.4-inch screen is available. The instrument cluster is digital as well, sized at either 8.0 inches, like the Bronco, or 12.4 inches. While we had little time to use the screens, they looked attractive and responded quickly. The large center touchscreen even had games, like Sudoku.

Increases in height and width have netted larger interior dimensions, as total passenger volume has increased 0.7 cubic feet. There's generally more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in both rows than last year.

While most Rangers have a mechanical shifter, the Lariat 4x4 and Raptor have a small and short-throw electronic shifter that enables driver aids including trailer backup and an automated parallel and perpendicular parking system.

Also available are a 360-degree exterior camera, over-the-air updates, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and Ford's Zone Lighting system that lets owners selectively illuminate exterior lighting when parked. Rangers equipped with the FX4 off-road package gain Ford's Trail Control off-road cruise control system.