It’s hard to argue with the popularity of the Ford Ranger. More drivers turned to this truck before it disappeared from the market; more drivers turned to this truck than any other midsize model. Toyota wiped its proverbial brow when the Ranger left because this left room for the Tacoma to become the most popular midsize truck in the market. Now, four years after the return of the Ford Ranger, we see this truck getting better and better.

We can easily admire the fact that Ford gives the Ranger the Raptor treatment, but the regular Ranger is pretty impressive in its own right. Let’s look at some of the favorite features of this midsize Ford truck.

The Splash trim returns to the 2022 Ford Ranger

You can add the Splash trim to the Ranger XLT or Lariat model for a small price increase. According to Car and Driver, this package gives you a truck with the ninety’s flair and a color scheme that stands out. The orange and black body-side graphics are impressive. This package also brings you:

• Unique 18-inch matte-black wheels
• Orange grille trim
• Gloss-black exterior accents
• Orange contrast stitching
• Pin-striped trim

The Splash trim is a cosmetic package that costs $1,495, giving your midsize truck a lot more personality.

Ford thought you might want to tow with the Ranger

Not all midsize trucks are created equal. Proof of this is in the Tow-Optimized Blind-Spot Monitoring. A favorite feature of Kelley Blue Book, this item allows the blind-spot monitoring system to extend the length of the trailer to keep you from sideswiping other vehicles on the road. The system can store up to three trailer profiles for you.

There’s something special about the XL extended-cab model

The base version of a vehicle doesn’t often make it on a list of favorite features, but we couldn’t help ourselves with the Ford Ranger XL. This SuperCab model gives you the same power and ride quality of higher trims but in a lighter configuration with RWD. This allows you to reach highway speeds faster than the other Ranger models. Also, this version comes standard with forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. To have these items on the Chevy Colorado or GMC Canyon, you must reach their highest trim levels.

Ford gives you an excellent Wi-Fi system in the Ranger midsize truck

Across the entire lineup of Ford Ranger pickup trucks, you’ve got an impressive Wi-Fi hotspot. This system connects up to 10 devices, making it easy for all your passengers to connect or for you to use your laptop computer when parked at the job site. You’ll have Wi-Fi access everywhere you go with this truck.

The Ranger offers impressive towing and payload levels

When you select this Ford truck with the optional tow package, you’ll have the strength you need. Some have thought only one powertrain isn’t enough, but when they see the Range can pull 7,500 pounds and carry up to 1,860 pounds, they change their collective minds. This truck might not have the powertrain options of its main rivals, but it gives drivers plenty of strength to get the job done.

Ford puts the Ranger in a position to succeed on every terrain

The powertrain, ride height, and selectable driving modes make it easy to take the Ford Ranger everywhere. You’ll have 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque coming out o the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Power goes to the wheels via the ten-speed automatic transmission.

Models using an RWD layout stand 8.4 inches off the ground, while 4WD versions are 8.9 inches above the dirt. You’ll find four selectable drive modes: Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, and Sand to handle most of the terrain challenges you’ll find.

Should you drive the Ford Ranger?

The 2022 Ford Ranger is an excellent choice in the midsize truck lineup if you don’t mind only one engine option. It has plenty of power, towing, capability, and trim options for you. When you’re looking for more power options, you’ll have to look elsewhere in the market.