2003 Ford Ranger reviews and buying
guide.
2003
Ford Ranger resources:
2003 Ford Ranger XL, Edge and Tremor
The 2003 Ford Ranger is one of the old reliable names
out there and it is not surprising that this is North
Americas best selling compact pick-up. However, it is
available in so many different incarnations that it
is almost not fair to call it the same model. In this
piece we are talking about the traditional Ranger compact
pickup, the 2WD XL, Edge and Tremor and the 4WD Edge.
See the Ford Ranger XLTs and XLT FX4's in another review.
Whichever of the many Rangers you choose from you are
sure to get one of 3 different powerteams; either the
2.3-liter V6, the 3.0-liter V6 or the 4.0-liter V6.
They all have good records for reliability and, with
all the options you can dress it up any way you want.
Under the Hood
The Base XL comes with either the 2.3-liter 4-cyl capable
of 143 hp at 5250 rpm and 154 lb-ft of torque at 3750
or you can upgrade to the 3.0-liter V6. This produces
154 hp, a small increase on the 4-cyl, but 180 lb-ft
of torque, significantly more than the smaller engine.
The V6 gets 19/22 (manual) or 17/22 mpg (automatic)
as it comes with a choice of 5-speed transmissions as
well. The Rangers all come with dual front airbags and
antilock brakes.
An upgrade to the Tremor or the Edge gives the option
of the 4.0-liter V6 engine, which is actually required
for the 4WD Edge Plus SuperCab that is available. (With
the SuperCab there is seating for four, including the
fold down back seats, and rear-hinged rear doors for
access.) This V6 has 207 hp and 238 lb-ft of torque
at 3000rpm. The most power at the lowest rpm of the
three.
The Edge and Tremor have a raised ride-height, and
all-terrain tires. On the 4WD models there is a 2-speed
transfer case, step bars and heavy-duty shocks with
many other optional extras that can make the vehicle
more off road worthy.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
The Ranger XL comes with vinyl or cloth upholstery,
power steering, AM/FM radio, a split-bench seat, a tachometer
and intermittent wipers. This is a pretty businesslike
vehicle. The options add up quickly though as you get
into the Edge and then the Tremor. At the Tremor and/or
Edge levels you can expect a Pioneer Audiophile sound
system with 6-disc CD changer, power mirrors, windows
and locks, remote keyless entry, cruise control, front
bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering-wheel, a Class-3
trailer hitch, alloy wheels and an assortment of other
possibilities determined by Cab size and whether it
is 2 or 4WD.
Air conditioning is an optional extra and an assortment
of mechanical upgrades and bed accessories are available.
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