Reworked Ranger makes for an enjoyable midsize

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- America loves a midsize pickup truck.  And yeah, I'm there.

I'll confess that I feel more comfortable behind the wheel of a midsize truck in most situations, as opposed to a behemoth that fills a lane nearly to the edge of excess.

And Ford has a really good midsize pickup: the recently tested 2024 Ford Ranger SuperCrew 4X2 Lariat.  Fully redesigned for the 2024 model year, it shapes up as the best Ranger ever, in my estimation.

Four doors, a just-the-right-size cargo bed, 18-inch all-terrain tires and state-of-the-art safety/security/technology features make the latest Ranger stand out as a shining example of the modern pickup truck.  Take it to the work site or the country club.  It's at home either way.

The look is classic pickup, and yet, one does not feel intimidated by size.  And it drives like a midsize as well: agile, smooth and pretty darn quiet for a truck ... even at full song.

Power comes from 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine rated at 270 horsepower and 310 foot-pounds of torque. This makes for a powerful machine in midsize skin.

I continue to be amazed at the contemporary features built into pickups, and yes, Ford knows how to build a pickup in the most customer-pleasing way.  Features of note include ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel and a 12-inch center touchscreen.  That last item is easy to read and use, and I am ever-grateful for a large touchscreen that I can easily monitor on the roll.

Also helpful: the optional integrated box side step.

The bottom line on my nicely equipped tester was $47,734, a fair price given all the bells and whistles.

The new-generation Ranger is a worthy addition to the long line of quality pickups produced by Ford over the years.