New 2.3

[Norton01]

I'm thinking of purchasing a new Ranger with the 2.3L. I had an 89 years back with 2.3. It was a little weak, but ran and ran.
I don't really do any aftermarket stuff, so I was wondering how the motor is.....is it strong for a 4 cyl? Any durability issues? The one i'm looking at has 4.10 gears....don't know if that makes a difference? How about fuel economy. I'm trying to decide b/w the 2.3 and the 3.0 V6. So far the 2.3 seems to be a better value.

Also, anyone have any hauling issues with this motor?
Thanks everyone for your help. Great site.

 

[exbass94]

We have a 2002 Ranger at work with the new 2.3. It's a great engine. It's very peppy and has plenty of power, even with an automatic. The one I drive has over 205,000 miles and it still runs beautifully. If I didn't need 4wd, I would've bought a truck with one of these instead. I never tried to calculate the gas mileage of it, but everyone that owns one says they get about mid-20s around town and high 20s-low 30s on the highway! It is literally the most fuel-efficient pickup on the market right now.

 

[addiman09]

i have an 03 2.3 L 4 cylinder, and its great, mines standard, and it gets around 30mpg if your driving it normal (shifting around 3000rpms) its a great choice, it hauls anything that i need to and it is zippy, its a great choice, i recommend it

 

[Ric]

I'll always recommend a 2.3L Ranger. Unless you'll be hauling heavy stuff all the time with it.
They haul normal stuff a small pickup carries and does it with a savings at the pump. it should also be mentioned that with the manual transmission, theyre pretty peppy. It's much more fun to drive than the 3.0 manual I had.

 

[Yettoblaster]

...it should also be mentioned that with the manual transmission, theyre pretty peppy...

My '08 2.3L with the auto 5 speed overdrive (made in France) is peppier than my old '88 with the manual. The new one has 4.10 to 1 rear end. Also manages 25mpg.

 

[evil20]

well i have an 04 2.3 reg cab, 5spd, hella good gas millag 25 in town, 28-29 hwy, but its time for service so after that it will do a lot better, it has plenty of power for what it is still can tow good ive towed some shit.

 

[08RangerXLT]

my 2.3 has good power for 4 cylinder and averages about 28 mpg

 

[Parsonator73]

yeah, i have an ' 01 2.3L manual and it does great. plenty of power and i get about 28mpg. i recommend it.