2023 Ford Ranger Review: Still One of the Smartest Midsize Trucks?

The midsize truck segment has become more competitive than ever, with newer rivals offering fresh designs, larger screens, and more advanced technology. Yet the 2023 Ford Ranger continues to prove that capability, durability, and real-world usability matter just as much as modern styling. As the final model year before Ford introduced the completely redesigned next-generation Ranger, the 2023 model represents the most refined version of a platform that has been tested and improved over several years.

What makes the Ranger stand out is its ability to balance everyday comfort with serious truck capability. Its turbocharged EcoBoost engine delivers strong acceleration, impressive towing power, and better fuel economy than many traditional V6-powered competitors. Whether used as a daily commuter, weekend adventure truck, or worksite companion, the Ranger remains one of the most versatile options in the midsize pickup segment.

While its interior design shows its age compared to some newer rivals, the Ranger still offers a compelling package thanks to its confident road manners, class-leading towing capability, available Tremor off-road package, and Ford’s proven engineering. Buyers looking for a dependable midsize truck may discover that the outgoing Ranger has aged better than expected.

Our Take

The 2023 Ford Ranger succeeds because it focuses on the fundamentals that truck buyers care about most. It is quick, capable, easy to drive, and surprisingly efficient for a body-on-frame pickup. Although the cabin lacks the visual appeal and technology found in newer competitors, the Ranger compensates with excellent towing capability, strong turbocharged performance, and a driving experience that feels more refined than many rivals in the segment.

As the final year of the outgoing generation, the Ranger benefits from years of development and refinement. Rather than chasing flashy features, it delivers a mature and dependable ownership experience. For buyers who prioritize capability over gimmicks, the 2023 Ranger remains one of the smartest midsize trucks on the used and pre-owned market today.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with excellent torque
• Maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds
• Confident handling for a midsize pickup truck
• Available Tremor package significantly improves off-road capability
• Good fuel economy compared with many truck rivals
• Proven reliability and mature platform

Cons

• Interior design feels dated compared with newer competitors
• Rear-seat space remains average for the segment
• Base XL trim lacks modern infotainment features
• Ride quality can become firm with off-road-focused packages
• Some competitors offer more standard safety technology

What’s New for 2023

Ford made only minor updates to the Ranger for 2023, reflecting the fact that an all-new generation was already preparing to enter the market. The biggest news surrounding the 2023 model is not what changed, but what it represents. This is the final model year of the outgoing Ranger before the arrival of the completely redesigned 2024 Ranger and the highly anticipated Ranger Raptor.

The available Splash appearance packages returned for another year, giving buyers additional styling options without affecting the truck’s capability. Otherwise, the Ranger carries over largely unchanged, allowing buyers to benefit from a platform that has already proven itself through years of real-world use. For many shoppers, that maturity and reliability may be more appealing than being an early adopter of a completely new generation.

Who Is This Truck Really For?

The 2023 Ford Ranger is an excellent choice for buyers who need genuine truck capability without stepping up to a larger and more expensive full-size pickup. It is particularly well-suited for drivers who regularly tow boats, utility trailers, small campers, or recreational equipment while still needing a vehicle that remains manageable in city traffic and parking lots.

Adventure-minded buyers will also appreciate what the Ranger offers. Models equipped with the FX4 Off-Road Package or the available Tremor Package are capable enough for trails, camping trips, hunting excursions, and off-road exploration without sacrificing everyday usability. Unlike some extreme off-road trucks, the Ranger remains comfortable and easy to live with during daily commuting.

This truck is less ideal for buyers who prioritize rear-seat comfort, luxury features, or cutting-edge cabin technology. Competitors such as the Honda Ridgeline may offer a more car-like driving experience, while newer rivals provide more modern interiors. However, for drivers seeking a dependable midsize pickup that excels at towing, hauling, and real-world utility, the 2023 Ranger remains a highly appealing option.

Driving Experience

One of the biggest surprises about the 2023 Ford Ranger is how refined it feels from behind the wheel. Despite riding on a traditional body-on-frame platform, the Ranger delivers a composed driving experience that feels more controlled than many of its midsize truck rivals. Body motions are well managed, steering feels predictable, and the truck remains stable during highway cruising.

Power comes from a turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While some buyers may initially prefer the idea of a naturally aspirated V6, the Ranger’s turbocharged engine quickly proves its worth. Acceleration is strong, low-end torque arrives early, and passing slower traffic requires very little effort. The 10-speed automatic transmission generally works well with the engine and helps maximize both performance and fuel efficiency.

The Ranger’s towing confidence is another highlight. Whether hauling work equipment or pulling a weekend camper, the truck feels stable and capable under load. Buyers who select the Tremor Package gain additional off-road hardware, including upgraded suspension components, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and terrain management systems that significantly improve capability on rough terrain. Even so, the Ranger remains more comfortable on paved roads than many dedicated off-road-focused competitors.

Comfort & Interior

The Ranger’s cabin reflects the age of the platform, and this is the area where the truck feels most dated compared to newer competitors. The overall dashboard design is straightforward and functional, but it lacks the modern styling, premium materials, and larger displays now common throughout the midsize truck segment. Hard plastics are present throughout much of the interior, particularly in lower trim levels.

Fortunately, the interior remains practical and easy to use. Controls are logically placed, visibility is excellent, and the seating position provides the commanding view that truck buyers expect. Front-seat comfort is particularly impressive, with supportive seats that remain comfortable during long highway drives. The straightforward layout also makes everyday operation simple, especially for owners who prefer physical buttons over touchscreen-heavy designs.

Rear-seat space is adequate rather than class-leading. The SuperCrew configuration offers enough room for adults on shorter trips, but taller passengers may find legroom somewhat limited during extended journeys. Buyers with growing families may notice that some rivals provide more passenger space. Still, for most truck owners, the Ranger delivers enough comfort to handle daily commuting, weekend travel, and occasional family duties without complaint.

A good place to compare the Ranger’s cabin refinement is against rivals such as the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier. While the Ford may not offer the newest interior design, it remains a comfortable truck for everyday use and continues to deliver the durability and straightforward functionality that many pickup buyers still appreciate.

Technology & Infotainment

Technology is one of the few areas where the 2023 Ford Ranger shows its age. While newer competitors have moved toward larger touchscreens, fully digital instrument clusters, and more advanced interfaces, the Ranger sticks with a simpler and more traditional approach. Depending on the trim level, buyers will find either a basic work-focused setup or Ford’s familiar SYNC 3 infotainment system.

The base XL trim prioritizes functionality over luxury, making it a suitable choice for fleet operators and work-truck buyers. However, most shoppers will be happier with the XLT or Lariat trims, which feature an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice controls, and multiple USB ports. The system may not look as modern as newer truck interfaces, but it remains intuitive, responsive, and easy to learn.

One advantage of the Ranger’s older design is usability. Physical buttons and straightforward menus make everyday operation simple, especially while driving. Available features such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, adaptive cruise control, and Ford’s Co-Pilot360 driver-assistance technologies help the Ranger remain competitive despite its aging architecture. Buyers looking for the latest technology may prefer newer rivals, but those who value simplicity will appreciate the Ranger’s user-friendly setup.

Fuel Economy & Real-World Efficiency

Fuel efficiency remains one of the Ranger’s strongest selling points. Ford’s turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers impressive performance while maintaining competitive fuel economy for a midsize pickup. Rear-wheel-drive models are rated at up to 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while four-wheel-drive versions sacrifice only a small amount of efficiency.

In real-world driving, the Ranger often performs close to its EPA estimates, especially during highway cruising. The combination of strong low-end torque and a well-calibrated 10-speed automatic transmission helps the engine operate efficiently without feeling underpowered. Drivers rarely need to push the engine hard to access useful performance, which contributes to respectable fuel consumption during daily use.

Off-road-focused models equipped with the Tremor Package naturally consume more fuel due to their all-terrain tires, suspension upgrades, and additional weight. Even so, the Ranger remains one of the more efficient body-on-frame trucks in the segment. Buyers seeking a truck that balances capability, towing power, and reasonable operating costs will find plenty to like here.

Cargo & Everyday Practicality

Practicality has always been one of the Ranger’s greatest strengths. The truck offers a durable cargo bed, impressive payload capability, and a useful range of configurations that allow buyers to tailor it to their specific needs. Whether used for work, recreation, or everyday hauling, the Ranger delivers the utility expected from a midsize pickup.

SuperCab models feature a longer six-foot cargo bed, making them particularly attractive for contractors, tradespeople, and owners who frequently transport bulky equipment. SuperCrew models trade some bed length for improved passenger accommodation, offering a five-foot bed that still provides plenty of space for most recreational and daily-use tasks.

The Ranger’s payload capacity remains among the best in the midsize truck segment, reaching up to approximately 1,900 pounds when properly configured. Combined with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds, the truck handles everything from construction materials and motorcycles to camping trailers and boats with confidence. Numerous tie-down points, available bed accessories, and Ford’s reputation for durability further enhance the truck’s usefulness.

Inside the cabin, storage solutions are practical and well thought out. Large door pockets, center-console storage, cupholders, and various small-item compartments make it easy to organize tools, work gear, and personal belongings. While some competitors offer more creative storage solutions, the Ranger focuses on straightforward functionality that works well in everyday life.

Competitors Worth Considering

The midsize truck segment offers several strong alternatives to the 2023 Ford Ranger, each with its own strengths. The Toyota Tacoma remains one of the most popular choices thanks to its reputation for durability and strong resale value. Buyers who prioritize long-term ownership and proven reliability may find the Tacoma particularly appealing.

The Nissan Frontier is another worthy competitor, offering a modernized design, a powerful V6 engine, and a comfortable ride. It delivers solid value for buyers who want a traditional pickup experience without stretching their budget. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Colorado stands out with a newer platform, updated technology, and impressive off-road trims that appeal to adventure-focused drivers.

For shoppers seeking maximum off-road capability, the Jeep Gladiator remains a compelling option. Its removable roof and doors create a unique open-air experience that no other truck can match. On the other hand, buyers who spend most of their time on pavement may prefer the Honda Ridgeline, which delivers the smoothest ride and most car-like driving dynamics in the segment.

While these trucks all bring something different to the table, the Ranger continues to distinguish itself through its excellent towing capability, strong turbocharged performance, and balanced everyday usability.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

If we were spending our own money on a 2023 Ford Ranger, the XLT SuperCrew would be our pick.

The base XL is an excellent work truck, but most buyers will quickly outgrow its limited technology and basic interior features. At the other end of the lineup, the Lariat adds luxury features and premium materials, but the price climbs significantly once popular options and four-wheel drive are added.

The XLT strikes the best balance between value, capability, comfort, and technology. Buyers gain the SYNC 3 infotainment system, Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technologies, improved interior equipment, and access to desirable option packages without entering luxury-truck pricing territory.

For drivers who enjoy outdoor adventures, camping, hunting, or regular trail use, adding the FX4 Off-Road Package or Tremor Package makes the XLT even more attractive. This combination transforms the Ranger into a highly capable off-road truck while maintaining its everyday practicality.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The 2023 Ford Ranger may be approaching the end of its generation, but it remains one of the most capable and well-rounded midsize trucks on the market. Its turbocharged EcoBoost engine delivers excellent real-world performance, towing capability is among the best in the class, and the truck feels surprisingly refined on both highways and back roads.

Yes, the cabin design is beginning to show its age, and some competitors offer more modern technology and premium interiors. However, the Ranger still excels where many truck buyers place the highest priority: capability, durability, efficiency, and ease of ownership.

For shoppers looking at used or certified pre-owned midsize pickups, the 2023 Ranger represents one of the smartest choices available. It offers proven engineering, strong towing credentials, respectable fuel economy, and enough versatility to handle work duties during the week and recreational adventures on the weekend.

Cardrav Verdict: 8.7/10

What We Like Most: Strong EcoBoost performance, outstanding towing capability, and excellent all-around versatility.

What We Like Least: An aging interior that no longer feels as modern as some newer competitors.

FAQ

Is the 2023 Ford Ranger a good truck for towing?

Yes. When properly equipped, the 2023 Ford Ranger can tow up to 7,500 pounds, making it one of the strongest towing performers in the midsize truck segment. This capability makes it suitable for boats, utility trailers, campers, and recreational equipment.

Is the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine reliable?

The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine has proven to be one of Ford’s most successful turbocharged powerplants. With proper maintenance, it offers strong long-term reliability while delivering excellent performance and fuel efficiency.

Which 2023 Ford Ranger trim offers the best value?

The XLT SuperCrew provides the best overall value for most buyers. It adds modern infotainment features, advanced safety technologies, and greater comfort without approaching the higher price of the Lariat trim.

Is the Ford Ranger better than the Toyota Tacoma?

The answer depends on buyer priorities. The Ranger generally offers stronger towing capability, quicker acceleration, and better on-road manners, while the Tacoma is known for its legendary reputation for durability and resale value.

Should I buy a 2023 Ford Ranger or a newer 2024 Ranger?

Buyers seeking the latest technology, updated styling, and new powertrain options may prefer the redesigned 2024 Ranger. However, the 2023 model benefits from years of refinement and often represents a better value on the used market while still delivering excellent capability and reliability.