I wonder this too, but would they offer the next generation Ranger with the same 7 speed? Or would it get a 5 or 6 speed? I think the Toyota Tacoma and the Jeep Wrangler both have a 6 speed manual if I recall. So I'd wonder since the Bronco is getting that 7 speed with the crawler low if they'd put that in a Ranger...I wouldn't think in the regular XL, XLT, or Lariat...maybe in the "Offroad" models? The regular models probably a 6 speed?
I have my doubts though, everything is going automatic for ease of use, and ease of electronic controls to keep the operator from having too much fun LOL. Although that start/stop crap can go away, and they make overrides for that stuff anyhow so no reason not to overlook a manual option in the new Ranger, but may not be the 7 speed I'd guess....I wouldn't mind a little base model 4x2 Ranger with a 6 speed manual though as a work truck. I would wonder how useful that 6th gear would be? I know the 6 speed Toyota Tacomas with the 4 cylinder engines 6th gear is useless unless you are going downhill LOL. The Ranger having the turbo charged 4 cylinder may not have that issue? The Tacoma just drops off after 5th, and in 6th it has a very hard time just maintaining highway speeds on flat ground, throw a hill in and you are down to 4th gear at least.
Should be interesting to see what they do with the next Ranger...I'm in hopes they at least keep a basic 2 door model with a long bed, and keep the price reasonably cheap because I'm sure like myself many others just want a bare basic fleet type work vehicle and don't care about all the extra bells and whistles that everything seems to have. Basic is fine for me I don't even mind manual windows and locks LOL. I guess that's why I like my 87 Ranger so much, its just bare basic, only upgrades were AC and the V6.