The 4-cylinder engine powering all Rangers displaces 2.3 liters and makes 260 horsepower, which is sent to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, the only transmission available on the Ford Ranger. Optionally, buyers can opt for 4-wheel drive which adds about $4000, but makes the Ranger far more capable in off-road or low-grip situations.

There are two basic body styles available, what Ford calls its SuperCab combined with a 6-foot cargo bed or the bigger SuperCrew cabin combined with a shorter, 5-foot bed for about $2400 more. Either body style comes in one of three trims: XL, XLT or top-of-the-line Lariat.

The basic XL trim comes with automatic headlights, daytime running lamps, a locking tailgate, an auxiliary input jack for the stereo, a locking glove box, power door locks, multiple 12 volt outlets, a 6-speaker sound system, Ford's SYNC infotainment system, a USB port, a rearview camera. While the bigger CrewCab obviously has larger and more comfortable rear seats, it's worth noting that even the basic SuperCab has ditched the sideways-facing rear seats of the past, and instead gone with forward-facing rear seats with surprisingly reasonable leg room.

The XLT trim adds both luxury and style to the Ranger over the XL. 17-inch aluminum wheels replace the basic steel wheels seen on the XL, while bumpers on the XLT are also painted body color. In addition, the XLT gets some brightwork around the grille, fog lamps and parking sensors both forward and aft. The XLT comes standard with blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, pre-collision assist and automatic emergency braking as standard as well.

At the top of the Ranger lineup sits the Lariat, and it comes with leather-trimmed seats, LED headlights and taillights, Ford's SYNC3 infotainment system displayed through an 8-inch touchscreen, push button start and a big chrome grille. The Lariat also features power-folding side mirrors, a power locking tailgate, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.