2021 Ford Ranger Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you're seeking a pickup truck that offers the perfect combination of power and convenience, then look no further than the 2021 Ford Ranger. Ranked as one of today's top midsize pickups, this model packs immense performance into its long list of features: reliable fuel efficiency, smooth handling capabilities and advanced safety technology show why it should be your go-to choice for life on the road. Here are ten compelling reasons to buy a 2021 Ranger - plus some helpful considerations so you can decide if it meets all your needs.

What's New for 2021?

Ford has kept the 2021 Ranger remarkably similar to 2020, but with a few subtle changes. This includes four new exterior colors: two shades of grey, and vibrant orange and blue hues - plus an optional Black appearance package that adds stylish dark accents throughout.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Ford Ranger – The Pros

1. Feels Athletic

Offering a stimulating drive, the Ford Ranger is your ticket to adventure. The vehicle's powerful 2.3L turbocharged engine can generate up to 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque that effortlessly cruises through any terrain with its 10-speed automatic transmission for an action-packed experience behind the wheel.

2. Capable of Conquering the Trail

The Ford Ranger's standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive provide reliable traction for everyday driving. For those desiring additional traction, an off-road package is available with upgraded suspension, tough tires and a locking rear differential to tackle difficult conditions. To further handle these changes in terrain the truck features Terrain Management System capabilities that tailor engine throttle response and transmission shift points according to mud/ruts, sand or grass/gravel/snow settings - providing superior performance when taking on challenging surfaces.

3. Ready to Haul

This truck can tow up to 7,500 pounds. This is quite a bit of weight, and the Ranger makes it seem simple. With Trailer Sway Control, the truck is ready to do what it takes to keep everything steady. The backup camera can be useful when getting the truck into position to hook up to a trailer.

4. Looks Rugged

The Ford Ranger certainly looks like it's right at home in the woods or in the backcountry. It sits high off the ground and can ride on 16-, 17-, or 18-inch wheels. In the various trims, the front grille is some form of black or black mesh, and it gives an extra sense authority to the truck. There are available running boards and fog lamps. Depending on one's preference, the truck can come with chrome or black exterior accents.

5. The Price is Right

The Ford Ranger offers truck shoppers a tremendous amount of value for the money. With a base model price tag below $25,000 and mid-level trim XLT priced at under $29, 000 - not to mention its top range Lariat trim coming in well under budget with an MSRP just above thirty thousand dollars – this next generation pick up is sure to deliver on performance without breaking the bank.

6. Multiple Driver-Assist Systems

The 2021 Ford Ranger is stepping up its safety capabilities. Standard on the base model, automatic emergency braking can sense a collision ahead and brake to avoid it - keeping you in control of your truck's movements at all times. Other options include advanced systems such as blind spot monitoring with trailer length awareness, rear cross-traffic alert, and high beams that switch off when conditions seem dangerous or another car approaches – giving drivers peace of mind while they're behind the wheel.

7. Ready to Connect to the Network

Every Ford Ranger has FordPass Connect technology. This gives the vehicle the ability to act as a Wi-Fi hotspot. Anywhere from one to ten devices can connect to the hotspot at the same time. The network has a reach that extends to about 50 feet outside of the vehicle.

A SYNC 3 interface is standard on the top two trims and available on the lowest trim. It provides an easy way to connect a smartphone to the vehicle's infotainment system. People can quickly look up certain kinds of information stored on their phones, make calls and send texts, and more. The eight-inch touchscreen is large enough so that its text is clearly visible, and it's been positioned in just the right spot within reach of the driver.

Navigation and SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link are optional. It can be wise to get these programs if someone is often driving in unfamiliar territory. They can provide drivers with up-to-date information regarding any traffic congestion, and this can save people a lot of time in the long run.

8. Premium Interior Features

Enjoy a luxurious interior with the top trim Lariat model, featuring leather seating surfaces and an exclusive steering wheel wrapping plus ambient lighting to illuminate your cabin in tranquil tones of red, blue or green. Seating comfort at its finest is also available through the XLT's premium cloth seats that boast great style from any angle.

9. Choose A Preferred Cab Configuration

Customers have the choice of two distinct cab configurations when it comes to this truck: SuperCab and SuperCrew. With its full-size doors on each side, five people can comfortably fit in a SuperCrew, which also offers an impressive rear seat legroom of 35 inches--ideal for most drivers' needs. Those who rarely ever require backseat passengers may prefer the more compact option; namely that provided by the four-person capacity SuperCab with its ingenious half-doors feature.

10. The Tremor Package Makes the Ranger Even Tougher

New for 2021, the Tremor Package is something to consider if one wants the best of what's available. This package comes with a heavy-duty skid plate and off-road suspension, along with special running boards and a front grille. Front and rear ow hooks are included, too.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Ford Ranger – The Cons

1. No Alternative Engine

When it comes to buying a new truck, having choices is essential. But with the Ford Ranger, buyers may not have as many engine alternatives as they would get from other manufacturers - just one standard option without the variety of diesel and supercharged varieties available elsewhere. Although its power provides plenty for some drivers' needs, others may be left wanting more options when customizing their perfect ride.

2. Not Very Efficient

No one expects trucks to be super efficient. That being said, the Ranger is not impressive in the efficiency department. Its estimated that this truck can only earn about 20 or 21 miles per gallon in the city. On the highway, the numbers are better, but they still pale in comparison to the fuel economy ratings associated with many modern SUVs.

3. Base Model Has Limited Technology

The Ford Ranger is a vehicle that stands out from the competition, not just in terms of its capabilities but also in what it offers inside. Although many cars provide smartphone connectivity and sizable touchscreens as standard features, this model lacks those offerings at entry-level trim - requiring an upgrade to access them. Despite being behind the curve on these modern elements, there are numerous reasons why drivers may find themselves drawn to this powerful pick-up truck option regardless.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

 

2021 Ford Ranger vs 2021 Chevy Colorado

When considering a midsize pickup truck, the 2021 Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado represent two sound options. With its robust exterior styling and towing power, the Ranger is an excellent choice for those who need their truck both on- or offroad; while the Chevrolet emphasizes comfort with a luxurious cabin design that offers you smooth handling no matter where your drive takes you. Whether it's performance or convenience at heart of your decision-making process, these trucks have plenty in common - including advanced engine technology enabling impressive fuel economy – so ultimately it comes down to personal preference when selecting between them.

2021 Ford Ranger vs 2021 Nissan Frontier

When shopping for a dependable, hardworking midsize pickup truck, the 2021 Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier are both excellent options to consider. The rugged style of the Ranger combines with its impressive hauling power and smooth ride quality - making it an ideal choice for those who want peak performance from their vehicle. Meanwhile, drivers looking for reliability can find plenty of peace-of-mind in the durable Frontier's well established long life span; plus cost savings thanks to its more wallet friendly price tag when compared to that of the Ford model. Ultimately you'll need weigh your individual needs against these two models before selecting one - but rest assured knowing each option has benefits on offer backed by reputation and capability.

Final Thoughts

The Ford Ranger offers an excellent blend of performance, value and convenience. With three different trims available to choose from plus additional packages for further customization, the Ranger is a great choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank. This truck's handling prowess complemented by its powerful engine makes it perfect option when practicality needs to be balanced with budget-friendliness - making this one smart investment.