2008 Ford Ranger: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Ford Ranger gets slightly revised front styling but is otherwise unchanged from 2007. This compact pickup truck offers regular-cab and extended SuperCab models spanning four trim packages. SuperCabs are available with two rear fold-down jump seats and back-hinged rear access doors. Regular cab models offer 6- and 7-foot cargo beds; SuperCabs use the 6-foot only. The 2008 Ford Ranger is available with three engines: a 143-hp 2.3-liter 4-cylinder; a 148-hp 3.0-liter V6; and a 207-hp 4.0-liter V6. All are available with manual or automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 5980 lb. Rear-wheel drive is standard. Ranger offers part-time 4-wheel drive that includes a low-range gear for off-roading, but should not be left engaged on dry pavement. ABS is standard. No side airbags are offered. Mazda's B-Series trucks are retrimmed Rangers with a different pricing and features mix, and they do not offer the 3.0-liter V6.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Pickups offer a true-truck design in a relatively modest package. They are best suited for personal or light-duty use rather than commercial use, heavy hauling, or towing.

Our Best Buy is the Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Dakota, Honda Ridgeline, and Nissan Frontier.