2024 Ford Ranger gets more features, some models axed

Ford has rejigged its Ranger line-up for what it’s calling model year 2024.5, adding some new features and deleting some variants.

However, it has bucked an industry trend of increased prices, with only the XLS Bi-Turbo dual-cab ute getting a price hike. It’s $1950 more expensive, but has gained the previously optional Towing Pack and XLS Tech Pack as standard.

Some variants have been culled. These comprise the XL Bi-Turbo 4×2 dual cab-chassis, XLS Bi-Turbo dual-cab 4×2 ute, and XL Bi-Turbo super-cab 4×2 ute. The limited edition Wildtrak X has also finished its run.

Production of the updated Ranger range will begin in March 2024, with customer deliveries set to begin around mid-year.

As on the related Everest, the Ranger gains Pro Trailer Backup Assist. It’s standard on the Wildtrak, Platinum and Raptor, and available as part of the 4×4 XLT and Sport utes’ optional Touring Pack.

“The driver ‘steers’ the trailer via the outer ring of the drive mode controller on the centre console,” explained Ford advanced driver assist systems engineer Zack McIntyre.

“As the driver turns the dial, the steering wheel, which the driver doesn’t need to touch during the manoeuvre, turns to direct the trailer where it needs to go.”

The system is activated with the press of the trailer icon on the drive mode selector.

Ford has expanded the availability of its Flexible Rack System, previously standard only on the Platinum and Wildtrak X.

The sliding rack can be locked into one of five preset locations along the length of the Ranger’s tub.

You can now specify the Sport with it, deleting sports bar and load box access points; it’s also optional on the Wildtrak, removing the sailplane and box rails.

The base Ranger XL now comes standard with heavy-duty suspension, with thicker rear springs and new front and rear dampers with a revised tune.

As mentioned previously, the XLS now comes standard with the features from the previously optional Tech and Towing Packs. These include:

• Tow bar and tongue
• Trailer light check
• Integrated trailer brake controller
• Extended blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage
• Body-colour door handles
• Proximity entry with push-button start
• Dual-zone climate control
• Rear seat air vents
• Satellite navigation
• DAB+ digital radio

Ford previously increased Ranger prices by up to $1200 for MY24, though it made no specification changes.

Pricing

Ranger XL

• 4×2 single cab-chassis 2.0L: $36,880
• 4×2 super cab-chassis 2.0L: $39,380
• 4×2 double cab pickup 2.0L: $43,280
• 4×4 single cab-chassis Bi-Turbo: $47,980
• 4×4 double cab-chassis 2.0L: $48,980
• 4×4 super cab-chassis BiTurbo: $50,480
• 4×4 double cab-chassis BiTurbo: $52,480
• 4×4 double cab pickup 2.0L: $50,880
• 4×4 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $54,380

Ranger XLS

• 4×4 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $57,380 (+$1950)

Ranger XLT

• 4×2 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $56,190
• 4×4 super cab pickup BiTurbo: $61,390
• 4×4 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $63,390
• 4×4 double cab chassis V6: $65,690
• 4×4 double cab pickup V6: $67,590

Ranger Sport

• 4×4 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $65,890
• 4×4 double cab pickup V6: $70,090

Ranger Wildtrak

• 4×4 double cab pickup BiTurbo: $69,390
• 4×4 double cab pickup V6: $73,590

Ranger Platinum

• 4×4 double cab pickup V6: $79,390

Ranger Raptor

• 4×4 double cab pickup EcoBoost V6: $89,190

All prices exclude on-road costs.

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