7 Awesome Facts About the All-New Ford Ranger That Will Blow Your Mind

Written by Jim Belt in Trucks

The Ford Ranger is back and better than ever after a multi-year hiatus. While it retains its iconic compact truck capabilities, the reinvented Ranger is loaded with cutting-edge technology, smart versatility tricks, and some impressively brawny performance chops. Whether you're a die-hard Ranger fan or just truck-curious, get ready to have your expectations shattered by these seven amazing facts.

7. It Can Tow Over 7,500 Pounds

Don't let the Ranger's mid-size footprint fool you - this truck can still haul with the big boys. When properly equipped, it can tow a whopping 7,500 lbs, enough to handle large campers, boats and toy haulers.

6. The Tailgate is a Marvel of Ingenuity

The Ranger's multi-function tailgate is a work of genius. It folds down like usual, opens side-to-side for curbside loading, creates a mobile workbench, and even acts as a load-leveling step.

5. You Can Get It as a Hardcore Off-Road Monster

The gnarly Ranger Raptor turns this svelte truck into an extreme off-road beast. It gets a lifted suspension, burly tires, underbody armor, and a high-output turbocharged engine for conquering the toughest terrain.

4. It Has an Immersive Trailer Backup System

Hitching and reversing trailers is a breeze thanks to the Ranger's available Pro Trailer Backup Assist. It lets you steer the trailer with a knob while the truck automatically figures out the perfect steering inputs.

3. The Bed is Tougher Than Ever

Ford constructed the Ranger's composite truck bed from a dent- and scratch-resistant material that's more robust and cargo-friendly than traditional steel beds.

2. Tech Overload Inside

From the massive 12-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster to the slick Sync 3 infotainment system, the Ranger's interior is a high-tech playground loaded with all the latest connected gadgets.

1. It Will Embarrass Full-Size Trucks Off-Road

While it may be a mid-sizer on the street, the Ranger Raptor is an absolute beast off the beaten path with cutting-edge off-road tech like Ford's amazing Trail Control, Turn Assist, and Terrain Management systems.