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THE FORD RANGER JUST GOT ANOTHER OFF-ROAD UPGRADE

Good News, Everyone

Ford Ranger

The current-generation Ford Ranger is going to last at least another two years before the next-generation model makes its way onto the market, per the automaker’s recent $1.45 billion announcement. With not much longer left in its life cycle, the chances of the American market ever seeing the current Ranger Raptor continues to dwindle. However, Ford is aware of the situation, and has done what it reasonably can to provide a few off-road solution for its midsize pickup truck, while aftermarket companies have gone to offer comprehensive yet unofficial Ranger Raptor kits.

Along with offering a Fox suspension kit, official Yakima accessories and winch-capable front bumper, Ford will now offer a “Breadcrumb” satellite navigation feature so that drivers can easily find their way back to the pavement after exploring new trails off road. The feature will be on all Ford Ranger pickup trucks in either XLT or Lariat trim levels equipped with satellite navigation and Sync3. From there, be sure to get the FX4 package, which adds an electronic locking rear different and a Terrain Management System with Trail Control.

Those looking for off-road inspiration to upgrade the 2020 Ford Ranger need only look at last month’s slew of SEMA 2019 pickup trucks.

Our long-distance road trip experience with the Ford Ranger was a largely positive one, with its cabin riddled with modern amenities such as wifi connectivity, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and more USB ports than you probably need. While towing a 1,500 pounds camper trailer through the mountain roads of America’s West, we averaged 17 miles per gallon from its 2.3L EcoBoost four cylinder engine that it shares with the Ford Mustang.

Coincidentally, the next-generation Ford Ranger is rumored to offer a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, as well as a 3.0L Power Stroke V6 diesel engine that it will share with both the 2021 Ford Bronco, and the larger F-150 pickup truck.

Ford Ranger

Written by Manoli Katakis

Muscle Cars & Trucks was founded by Manoli Katakis - an automotive media veteran that has been covering the latest car news since 2009. His journalism has uncovered dozens of major product changes, updates, plans, and cancellations long before automakers were ready to make things official.

Some highlights over the years of his reporting include the uncovering of the Zora trademark before anybody else reported on the coming of a mid-engine Corvette, as well as the dead-accurate reporting of the coming of the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, two years before it hit the market, and even before the debut of the concept vehicle. This type of reporting has immediately continued here, with reports of the original seventh-generation Camaro plans being shelved, as well as what's in store for the Chevrolet Silverado.

Some of his work can be found on massive automotive media outlets, such as Motor1. He also has been a guest on the 910AM Radio Station with Detroit News auto critic Henry Payne, as well as the enthusiast-oriented Camaro Show podcast.

Over the years, Manoli has interviewed various automotive industry titans, leaders, and people that make things happen otherwise. These include figureheads such as GM CEO Mary Barra, GM President Mark Reuss, automotive aftermarket icon Ken Lingenfelter, Dodge firebrand Tim Kuniskis, along with various chief engineers of vehicles such as the Ford F-150 & Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro & Corvette, and many more.

At MC&T, Manoli is taking his journalism expertise, deeply planted sources, driving abilities, and automotive industry knowledge to new levels, covering more vehicles and brands than ever before. This is the place where you will continue to read groundbreaking stories about American performance vehicles, pickup trucks, and sport utility vehicles. Here is where you’ll also read insights and quotes from various automotive subject matter experts on the latest relevant products, as well as some of the latest official news from their manufacturers.

Fun facts: he also once beat Corvette Racing driver Tommy Milner in an autocross with a Chevrolet Bolt EV. The biggest vehicle he’s ever driven is a John Deere mining truck. Besides a go-kart, the smallest vehicle he’s driven has been a Hyundai i10. He’s also spent time in the cockpit of various American performance vehicle icons, including the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, Dodge Challenger Demon, and Ford Mustang GT350R. He has reviewed dozens of trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles over the years.

One of his favorite new vehicles on the market today happens to be the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. He is also a card carrying member of the Sports Car Club of America, and regularly participates in Detroit Region autocross events.

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