2008 Ford Ranger: Road Test
2008 Ford Ranger ▼
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- MSRP: $14,490 -$24,350
- Invoice: $13,731 -$22,559
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Our road test for the 2008 Ford Ranger includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Ford Ranger from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Ford Ranger, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Ford Ranger help you decide if a 2008 Ford Ranger is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Acceleration is adequate with 3.0-liter V6, but we prefer Rangers with the 4.0 for its extra power, especially at low speeds. Either engine works nicely with the 5-speed automatic transmission. No 4-cylinder or manual-transmission Rangers or B-Series trucks have been made available for us to test.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 3.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 4WD Ranger SuperCabs with the 4.0 V6 and automatic transmission averaged 12.9-14.4 mpg in city/highway driving. We have not had the opportunity to measure with other models. All Ranger and B-Series trucks use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.6 |
Decent for trucks. Ranger and B-Series jiggle on rough roads but absorb big bumps pretty well. Ranger FX4 versions have a surprisingly civilized ride for "off-road" models.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
As usual with pickups, bumpy corners can cause rear-end hop without a substantial load in the bed. Otherwise, Ranger and B-Series handle competently, with good steering feel and directional stability.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 4.5 |
Good isolation from engine, wind, and road ruckus, but no Ranger or B-Series is as refined as the pacesetting Dodge Dakota. The 4.0 V6 is smoother and quieter than the 3.0 V6.
CONTROLS
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
Though dated overall, Ranger and B-Series share a convenient dashboard design with easy access to audio and climate controls.
DETAILS
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.7 |
Interior materials are appropriate for the price, and all models we've tested have been solidly built.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 5.6 |
Good headroom and legroom up front, but three adults are a tight squeeze. The regular cab has enough seat travel and seatback recline for acceptably comfortable positioning. Entry and exit border on awkward in high-riding 4x4s and 2WD Ranger Sports.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1 | 1 | 2.8 |
Rear half-doors are an extended-cab plus but are awkward to maneuver around in tight spaces. With or without those, the rear seat is skimpy, cramped, and thus best used for toddlers or cargo.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
Regulars have useful space behind the bench or bucket seats. Extended cabs carry lots of stuff. The rear access doors don't open independently of the fronts, making loading difficult in confined spaces.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 6 | 5.9 |
This basic design is more than a decade old and shows it. Rivals, all much newer, offer better power, refinement, even room and comfort. Still, Ranger and the similar Mazda B-Series are proven workhorses that are attractively priced and often heavily discounted. Ford offers a wider array of features than the B-Series does, plus the convenience of more dealers.
Total Score
| 2WD Sport 3.0 reg. cab, automatic | 4WD XLT 4.0 SuperCab, automatic | 4WD XLT FX4 SuperCab, automatic | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | 44 | 41 | 49.8 |
Total Score: 40
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks
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