Trim Breakdown, Reviews, Rival Comparison & Why It’s Truck of the Year
The midsize truck segment has never been more competitive, but Ford is back with a serious contender. Fully redesigned and re-engineered, the 2025 Ford Ranger is not only more powerful and capable than ever—it’s also the 2025 North American Truck of the Year™. With a new platform, updated engines, a tech-rich interior, and serious off-road chops, the Ranger is aiming to be the most well-rounded midsize pickup available today.
Let’s dive into everything that makes the 2025 Ranger a standout—from expert reviews to how it stacks up against the competition and which trim is right for you.
What’s New for 2025?
- All-new fully boxed frame and wider track for better ride and off-road capability
- New 2.7L and 3.0L EcoBoost V6 options
- Significantly updated tech with up to 12” vertical touchscreen and SYNC 4A
- Revised bed with integrated side step, tie-downs, power outlet, and tailgate work surface
- Return of the high-performance Ranger Raptor
2025 Ford Ranger Trim Levels
XL – Affordable, Durable Starter
- Starting at: ~$32,670
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I4 (270 hp / 310 lb-ft)
- Key Features:
- 10.1” SYNC 4A touchscreen
- FordPass Connect with Wi-Fi
- Cloth seats, vinyl flooring, steel wheels
- Automatic emergency braking
- Available: FX4 Off-Road Package, 4×4 option
XLT – Value Packed & Versatile
- Starting at: ~$36,610
- Engine Options: 2.3L I4 or 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (315 hp / 400 lb-ft)
- Key Features:
- 12” vertical touchscreen & digital gauge cluster
- Alloy wheels, keyless entry
- Available FX4 Off-Road Package
- Optional Black Appearance Package
Lariat – Refined Daily Driver
- Starting at: ~$44,000+
- Standard Engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6
- Key Features:
- 12.4” digital instrument cluster
- Leather interior, dual-zone climate, heated seats
- 360° camera, premium B&O sound system
- Available FX4 Off-Road Package
Raptor – High-Speed Off-Road Beast
- Starting at: ~$55,000–$58,000
- Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6 (405 hp / 430 lb-ft)
- Key Features:
- FOX 2.5” Live Valve shocks, locking front & rear diffs
- 33” BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires
- 10.7” ground clearance
- Raptor-exclusive seats, trail modes (including Baja)
Performance, Towing & Payload
| Trim | Engine | Max Towing / Max Payload |
|---|---|---|
| XL | 2.3L I4 | 7,500 lbs. / ~1,800 lbs. |
| XLT | 2.3L or 2.7L V6 | 7,500 lbs. / ~1,750 lbs. |
| Lariat | 2.7L V6 | 7,500 lbs. / ~1,650 lbs. |
| Raptor | 3.0L TT V6 | 5,510 lbs. / ~1,400 lbs. |
The Ranger stands out with best-in-class payload (1,805 lbs.) and highly competitive towing figures. Only the off-road-oriented Raptor takes a drop in towing capacity to accommodate its performance upgrades.
Fuel Economy Expectations
Fuel economy is not the primary focus of the Ranger Raptor, but understanding realistic expectations is important for potential buyers. EPA ratings vary by configuration and driving style, especially with off-road tires and aggressive gearing.
| Engine | Typical EPA Combined MPG | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost | ~22–24 mpg | Best efficiency, daily-driver friendly |
| 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | ~20–21 mpg | More torque with modest efficiency tradeoff |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor) | ~17–18 mpg | Performance-focused, off-road tires and gearing |
Why the Ranger is the 2025 Truck of the Year
The North American Truck of the Year™ award isn’t given lightly. The Ranger earned this honor for several reasons:
- Innovation: Modern tech inside and out, including Pro Trailer Backup Assist and class-leading infotainment
- Capability: Strong engine choices, off-road performance, and utility features
- Design: A rugged, purposeful look with real-world usability
- Driver Satisfaction: Real-world reviews report a smoother ride, better handling, and an improved cabin experience
What the Reviews Say
Experts:
- Car & Driver: “Stylish, strong, and tech-forward. It’s the best Ranger yet.”
- Edmunds: Rated 8.2/10. Praised for power, towing, and comfortable ride.
- GearJunkie: “Punchy engine, well-executed tech, smooth on-road and off.”
Owners:
- “5,000 miles in and it’s easily more refined than my old Tacoma.”
- “Backseat space is better than the Colorado. Tows like a champ.”
Ford Ranger vs. The Competition
Power (Top Trim):
- Ford Ranger: 405 hp / 430 lb-ft (Raptor)
- Toyota Tacoma (2024): 326 hp / 465 lb-ft (Hybrid)
- Chevy Colorado (2025): 310 hp / 430 lf-ft
- Jeep Gladiator (2024): 285 hp / 260 ld-ft
Max Towing:
- Ford Ranger: 7,500 lbs
- Toyota Tacoma (2024): 6,500 lbs
- Chevy Colorado (2025): 7,700 lbs
- Jeep Gladiator (2024): 7,700 lbs
Off-Road Trim:
- Ford Ranger: Raptor (Best for speed)
- Toyota Tacoma (2024): Trailhunter / TRD Pro
- Chevy Colorado (2025): ZR2 Bison (Best for crawling)
- Jeep Gladiator (2024): Rubicon (Solid axle rock king)
Tech:
- Ford Ranger: 12-inch screen 360° cam
- Toyota Tacoma (2024): 14-inch screen, hybrid gauges
- Chevy Colorado (2025): 11.3-inch screen
- Jeep Gladiator (2024): 12.3-inch screen (new Uconnect)
Value:
- Ford Ranger: Great balance
- Toyota Tacoma (2024): Higher cost, better hybrid
- Chevy Colorado (2025): Budget friendly
- Jeep Gladiator (2024): Expensive, older drivetrain
Verdict
The Ranger is the most well-rounded of the bunch, offering the strongest mix of power, refinement, off-road ability, and interior tech. Tacoma wins on hybrid efficiency. Colorado is a solid value pick. Gladiator remains unmatched for trail crawling, but with everyday compromises.
The 2025 Ford Ranger is the most capable, refined, and well-equipped version to date. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, contractor, overlander, or off-road enthusiast, there’s a Ranger trim for you. Add to that the prestigious 2025 Truck of the Year award, and it’s clear this midsize pickup delivers the goods.
Related Articles
2025 Ford Ranger Technical Specification (pdf)
2025 Ford Ranger 2.3L EcoBoost Engine Specifications
Video
Photo Gallery
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.
