The Ford Ranger has been a popular mid-size truck for some time. And while it may not feature things like a V6 engine, it does feature serious capability. Especially when it comes to handling off-road situations. With its variety of available off-road packages and components, the 2022 Ford Ranger is a mid-size truck that is ready to handle the road less traveled. Especially when these three specific features are considered.

What makes the 2022 Ranger good off-road?

There are several features that make the new Ranger a competent off-road truck. The first of these is an available four-wheel-drive system. With this 4WD system, it is easy to shift between 4×4 high, 4×4 low, and two-wheel drive. That way, this truck is always ready for the current situation. 

Additionally, the 2022 Ford Ranger can come outfitted with an electronic-locking rear differential. This feature is available through a variety of different packages. It will lock the rear axle completely, which means traction can be maintained while improving off-road performance.

Through the available FX4 Off-Road package, buyers can easily get a mid-size truck that is ready for rough terrain. It comes with skid plates, a terrain management system, and screens to help display things like pitch and roll. These all come installed from the factory. Which is something that is likely to be appreciated.

Is the 2022 Ranger an off-road truck?

While not every new Ford Ranger is good for off-road use, with the available off-road packages and equipment, it can come equipped for the road less traveled. The Tremor Off-Road package offers things like FOX shocks, an off-road-tuned suspension, and upfitter switches for different modifications. 

Of course, the Tremor package does come with a cost, so it may not be worth it for buyers who do not plan to off-road their mid-size trucks often. There are other packages available that are more affordable and deliver slightly more off-road capable than the base Ranger model.

Will there be a Ford Ranger Raptor?

Outside of North America, there is a Ford Ranger Raptor, and for 2023, Ford will deliver the Raptor package to the United States. It will be featured on the new platform and will offer a more powerful engine option over the standard Ford Ranger model. 

Pricing will likely exceed that of the current top-trim Ranger Lariat, and it will go up against models like the Chevy Colorado ZR2 and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. According to Car and Driver, the Ranger Raptor is also expected to feature a V6 engine. Something that is not currently available to the 2022 Ford Ranger in America. 

With the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor, more aggressive looks are more than likely. These will help give the Ranger a rugged look, which lines up with its capability. While the standard Ford Ranger may be ideal as a work truck or light adventure vehicle, it does offer the features needed to make it a serious off-road competitor. From its available locking differential to 4WD, buyers can get a truck that can handle a range of situations.

RELATED: Is the 2022 Ford Ranger Roush Worth the Extra Cash?

Related post url: