The 5th-generation Ranger has been in production for the global market since last year but we have been eagerly awaiting the official North American reveal. Well, Ford has finally released the details for the stateside next-gen Ranger and we recently visited Ranger School outside of Detroit to get an in-person look at the midsize pickup!

There are three trims to choose from: XL, XLT, and Lariat. Plus, for the first-time ever, the Ranger Raptor hits our shores.

Ford calls the Ranger “the F-150 of the world” because of how important the product is globally but the fourth-generation is now designed with the North American consumer in mind. The exterior sees a more muscular stance thanks to a wider track of 2-inches, chiseled body panels, and larger offset. The wheelbase also grows 2-inches but the overall length stays pretty much the same. New packaging allows for use of larger engines while still improving on approach angles.

All-new 2024 Ford Ranger Debuts Stateside with Better Looks, More Power, and First-Ever Raptor 2

Two engine options are available: the carryover 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 with the same 270-horsepower and 310-lb-ft of torque but new is an optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, with 315-horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

2024 Ford Rangers are only available in the SuperCrew configuration with a 5-foot bed, in either 2- or 4-wheel-drive. The maximum payload capacity is 1,805-lbs, down 100-lbs from last-gen. But the usable space between the wheel wells in the bed increases, now being able to fit 4-feet wide drywall sheets.

The Ranger can still tow up to 7,500-lbs when equipped with the Advanced Towing Package, otherwise standard towing capacity sits at 3,500-lbs. Pro Trailer Backup Assist with trailer reverse guidance (when equipped with the 360 degree camera) is available to help with your towing needs as well as an available integrated brake controller.

Ranger fans should be happy with the completely refreshed interior that features a real shifter! Well…mostly. Upper trim levels see a sliding E-shifter. But a new integrated profile-style center display screen is standard along with digital instrument clusters. The climate controls are physical buttons and there is a volume knob!

Rangers will have Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Over-the-air updates are available along with a wireless charging pad, 360 cameras, and Zone Lightning.

2024 Ford Ranger Raptor

Moving on to the much anticipated Ranger Raptor, which was developed in tandem with the Bronco Raptor. Powertrain steps up to a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 outputting a healthy 405-horsepower and a potent 430 lb-ft of torque, and mated to a 10-speed auto. The suspension is ready for the dirt with 2.5-inch FOX Live Value shocks and a Watts Link in the rear for better cornering and heat-reduction. Front and rear locking differentials are setup like the F-150 Raptor for improved off-road traction. Drive modes include Normal, Tow/Haul, Sport, Slippery, Off-Road, Rock Crawl, and, of course, Baja.

You’ll notice the familiar black “FORD” Raptor grille, along with a choice of two 17-inch beadlock wheels wrapped in new 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K03 tires. Beefier fender flares attribute to the 3.5-inches of wider track, plus five skid plates protect the underbody.

Inside sees signature Raptor orange accents, sportier front seats, paddle shifters, and the largest display screens available.

The all-new 2024 Ford Ranger will start at $34,160 while the Ranger Raptor will start at $56,960, including $1,595 for destination and delivery.

Ford will start taking 2024 Ranger orders later this month with deliveries starting this summer. The 2.7-liter V6 will be available toward the end of 2023. Rangers are made in 5 different factories across the globe, with our North American spec being produced in the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan.

We’ll have more information on the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor coming up soon…on MotorWeek!