Although the Ford Ranger first hit the road as a compact truck in 1983, it’s changed quite a bit. The modern version of the Ranger you’ll find when looking for used trucks for sale is significantly different from what came before. First and foremost, it’s now a midsize truck rather than a compact, growing in size to meet the needs of a wide range of drivers. Its run hasn’t been uninterrupted either, as Ford discontinued the Ranger following the 2012 model year as interest in small trucks was on the decline. When it returned for the 2019 model year, it had grown into a sophisticated and powerful midsize pickup worthy of sharing dealership lots alongside the legendary F-150. Let’s take a look at the first generation of the Ranger’s return (technically the fourth generation overall) and see what you’ll find if you look at pre-owned pickups from those years.

The Ranger’s Return

If you’re interested in a pre-owned Ford Ranger, then 2019 is the year to start. This model year marks the return of the Ranger and its growth into a midsize truck, making it the perfect place to start when looking at what this pickup has to offer. The first thing you’ll likely notice is its gorgeous styling, which makes it a clear part of the Ford lineup while keeping its size to controlled proportions. It’s easy to see the work of Ford’s designers and engineers as soon as you check out this model, even in its first year. One of the goals with the Ranger was to keep things simple to address the needs of drivers without creating too many options. You can see this with the single available engine: a 2.3L turbocharged I-4 that delivers 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty for a midsize truck like this. It comes paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting and an excellent driving experience, which tells you that Ford has put the driver first in making this truck. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard on the Ranger, with four-wheel drive (4WD) available as an option. Despite its midsize design, the Ranger can still get plenty of work done thanks to 1,860 lbs of maximum payload capacity and a towing capacity of up to 7,500 lbs. That’s remarkable muscle for a truck like this, and it’s a big part of why it became immediately popular. The midsize Ranger may fit your life better than the full-size F-150 and still provide big capability. Inside, the 2019 Ranger has a wide range of modern amenities and great features across three trim levels designed to give you plenty of freedom without overwhelming you. The XL has standard features and comfortable seating, the XLT adds advanced safety tech, and the Lariat adds a larger 8.0-inch Infotainment display.

Adding the FX2 Package

As we look at the model years that followed the midsize Ranger’s debut, it’s worth noting that the year-to-year changes they made were often minimal. This is great if you’re looking at different pre-owned models since it means you don’t have to worry about missing out on much by choosing one year over another. For example, Ford added a new FX2 package for the Ranger with the 2020 model year, which provides light off-road support for models with RWD. This includes off-road tires, an electronic-locking rear differential, and an off-road-tuned suspension that’s better on rough terrain. If you don’t need 4WD but still want to get to your favorite remote campsites, the FX2 package is a great choice. If you’re looking for a 4WD model that’s great for taking off-road, look for one with the FX4 package instead. This package includes a durable off-road suspension and enhanced braking performance that’s perfect for leaving polite society behind. This package was also available on the 2019 model, so you won’t miss out if you find one from 2019 that has other features you’re looking for.

A Tremor Shakes the Auto Industry

For 2021, Ford took off-road features for the Ranger to the next level with a new Tremor package, adding to what was available with the FX4 and FX2 packages. The Tremor brings an updated suspension with FOX dampers, a terrain management system with trail control, underbody bash and skid plates, and more. This package also includes 32-inch all-terrain tires, but they’ll likely have been replaced on a used model you find. Overall, this is the one to get if you want a midsize truck built for adventure and going where most other vehicles fear to tread. Payload capacity for all Rangers was up slightly to 1,905 lbs for 2021, while towing capacity remained the same. Ford also enhanced the available Black Appearance Package, which includes black wheels and grille, for the 2021 model year to feature black exterior badging and decals as well. This is a subtle difference but one to consider since it can make it easier to tell which model year you’re looking at with a pre-owned Ranger. Some new exterior colors were added for this year, including Cyber Orange (a favorite of ours), Carbonized Gray, and Velocity Blue (also a favorite), further giving these models distinct appearances.

This Midsize Truck Makes a Splash

With the addition of the Tremor model, 2021 was one of the biggest years for this fourth-generation Ranger, but 2022 had one of the most unique aesthetic additions. Ford added a Splash trim for 2022 that’s available for the XLT and Lariat models and well worth looking for if you want something with a stylish flair. Showcasing pronounced orange coloration featuring orange and black graphics, an orange grille trim, and gloss black accents, there’s no denying this truck turns heads. It’s not for everyone, but as you’re looking at an ocean of white, black, and shades of grey with most pre-owned vehicles out there, a used Ford Ranger Splash undoubtedly stands out. It’s a great option if you want something that breaks away from the mundane.

End of a Generation

Changes and additions were minimal for the 2023 model year since the Ranger already had much to offer and reached the end of its first generation since returning as a midsize pickup. Another interesting appearance package was added, the Splash Jungle edition, with an Eruption Green Metallic exterior color and black details that create a remarkable visual impression. An Azure Gray Metallic Tri-coat paint was available for 2023, but changes were otherwise minimal. This isn’t a surprise since a new generation of the Ranger was right around the corner.

Is a Pre-Owned Ford Ranger Right for You?

There’s a lot to like about the fourth-generation Ford Ranger, no matter which model year you’re looking at. Changes throughout these years were minimal, though a few standouts, like the addition of an FX2 package for 2020 and the arrival of the Tremor for 2021, are worth keeping in mind. Overall, you’re free to shop different pre-owned Ranger models without too much worry about missing out on important features or power from one year to the next. If you think a midsize truck could be perfect for your lifestyle, all you have to do now is consider which features and options you want in your Ranger.