Data Shows the Ford Ranger Struggling Near Last Place
The formula used for the Ford Ranger surprised many when it returned to the North American Market. At the time, the only other midsize truck using only one powertrain and body style was the Honda Ridgeline. Going into 2023, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado adopted the Ranger philosophy of one engine and body style. If others are willing to copy this philosophy, why is the Ford Ranger struggling in the last place?
Where is the Ford Ranger ranked in midsize truck sales?
The 2022 Ford Ranger was dead last in sales of traditional midsize trucks in its class. The midsize truck class was led for the 17th year in a row by the Toyota Tacoma. The figures reported by Fox News are:
- Toyota Tacoma – 237,323
- Chevy Colorado/GMC Canyon – 89,197/27,819 Total 117,016
- Nissan Frontier – 76,183
- Ford Ranger – 50,302
The Honda Ridgeline, the only unibody midsize truck, finished 2022 with 42,762 models sold. Oddly, the Ridgeline results were the model’s best numbers since 2007, while the top-selling Tacoma experienced a 6% decline compared to 2021.
What are the main problems with the Ford Ranger?
The most common problems for the Ranger include:
- Misfiring engine
- Stalling
- Power loss
- Shaking
This midsize Ford truck is pretty reliable and scores well in its class. That said, we’re still scratching our heads to understand why sales figures we so low.
Did the addition of the Ford Maverick impact Ranger sales figures?
The addition of the compact Ford Maverick may have taken some sales from the Ranger. Consumers searching for a small truck with a smooth ride that also delivers an impressive level of capability had a new truck in the Maverick. In fact, the Ford Maverick beat the Ranger with 61,035 trucks sold in 2022.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz, the other unibody compact truck that entered the market in 2022, sold 36,380 models. This new Hyundai might have also impacted the overall sales of the Ranger and other midsize trucks.
Should the Ranger sales increase with the addition of the Raptor model?
Ford Ranger sales should increase in 2023 with the addition of a new Raptor version. This new hardcore off-road truck takes the wilderness experience to a new height. Ford gives the Ranger Raptor an exciting 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that pumps out 392 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. This engine mates to a 10-speed automatic transmission to provide smooth power delivery through the 4WD system.
The Raptor model includes amazing off-road features, with a higher ride height, increased ground clearance, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and a wider track.
Is the 2023 Ford Ranger a good truck?
The 2023 Ford Ranger includes a potent, fuel-efficient standard powertrain, a smooth transmission, impressive towing numbers, and several options and accessories to give consumers their desired package. The current model shows age with a dated interior that should be replaced and improved when the new generation Ranger arrives in 2024.
Next, check out some hot topic questions answered about the Ranger, or learn more about the 2023 Ford Ranger in this video below:
