Like its much larger stablemate, the F-150, the 2009 Ford Ranger pickup spans a broad price and equipment range and can be equipped to suit a wide range of uses. There are 3 different cab configurations (regular cab, and 2- or 4-door SuperCab), 2 different bed lengths (6- or 7-foot, 6-foot only on SuperCab models), 2 engines with rear- or 4-wheel drive, and a diverse array of trims, many of which are available in multiple combinations.
Two different engines are offered on the Ranger. A 143-horsepower, 2.3L four-cylinder engine is standard on XL and XLT 2-door SuperCab 4x2 and regular cab 4x2 models. The 4-cylinder provides the highest fuel economy of any pickup truck on the market, at an EPA-rated 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway. On other models, the 207-horsepower 4.0L V6 engine is standard. Both engines have a 5-speed manual transmission standard and 5-speed automatic optional, and the V6 engine is optional for a modest amount on lower-trim models.
The base XL model comes at an extremely attractive price, starting at $16,395, but is also very modestly equipped, with manual side mirrors, wind-up windows and black vinyl flooring. The XLT is the next step up in price, at only $1270 more than the XL, and adds a more accommodating interior and improved exterior appearance with sport bucket seats, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD player and a 60/40-split bench seat. The Sport further improves the appearance, including fog lamps, mud flaps, and on some models, upgraded wheels.
At the top of the line is the FX4 Off-Road model, which brings a limited-slip rear axle, tow hooks, heavy-duty shocks, skid plates, larger wheels with all-terrain tires, and a number of luxuries inside including keyless entry, power windows, locks, and mirrors, cruise control and satellite radio. The FX4 Off-Road only comes with a 4-wheel drivetrain.
Safety features include a tire pressure monitor, anti-lock brakes and Ford's Personal Safety System standard on all models. The Ranger also has a reputation for reliability and repeat customers; according to Ford, it has won R.L. Polk & Co.'s Automotive Loyalty Awards 5 times.
Affordability
Wide Range Of Models And Equipment
Fuel Economy
Safety & Security.
Continuing on unchanged from 2008, the 2009 Ranger is available in four different trim levels, including the XL, XLT, Sport and FX4 Off-Road. The 3.0-liter V6 has been dropped, leaving buyers the choice of a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder and the 4.0-liter V6. A Class III trailer hitch is now standard on all models.
The 2009 Ford Ranger continues to be one of the most affordable compact pickups on the market. Staying true to its reputation, the Ranger continues to be a top choice in its category with an array of possible cab and bed size configurations. An EPA rating of up to 26 mpg on the highway gives this pickup an advantage over its competitors.
