Does the ford ranger elevate your driving experience with a manual gearbox?
What To Know
- Prior to the 2019 model year, the Ford Ranger was not available with a manual transmission in the United States.
- This transmission is available on older model years of the Ford Ranger and offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
- The availability of a manual transmission in the Ford Ranger provides drivers with a choice between enhanced control and convenience.
The Ford Ranger, a formidable pickup truck known for its rugged capabilities and versatility, has long been a favorite among adventure enthusiasts and workhorse seekers alike. However, one question that often arises is whether the Ford Ranger comes in a manual transmission. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the availability of manual transmissions in the Ford Ranger lineup, exploring different model years and trim levels.
Manual Transmission Availability in the Ford Ranger
2019-2023 Ford Ranger
The 2019-2023 Ford Ranger offers a manual transmission option on select trim levels, including:
- XL (base trim)
- XLT (mid-level trim)
2011-2018 Ford Ranger
Prior to the 2019 model year, the Ford Ranger was not available with a manual transmission in the United States.
Benefits of a Manual Transmission in the Ford Ranger
Choosing a manual transmission in the Ford Ranger offers several advantages:
- Greater Control: Manual transmissions provide drivers with a heightened sense of control over the vehicle’s performance, allowing for precise gear selection and engine responsiveness.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Manual transmissions can offer slightly improved fuel efficiency compared to automatic transmissions, especially in highway driving conditions.
- Increased Towing Capacity: In some cases, manual transmissions offer higher towing capacities than automatic transmissions due to their ability to handle higher torque loads.
Drawbacks of a Manual Transmission in the Ford Ranger
While manual transmissions offer certain benefits, they also come with some drawbacks:
- Learning Curve: Operating a manual transmission requires a learning curve, especially for novice drivers.
- Increased Effort: Manual transmissions require more physical effort to operate, especially in stop-and-go traffic or off-road conditions.
- Limited Availability: Manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare in modern vehicles, including the Ford Ranger.
Which Trim Levels Offer a Manual Transmission?
As mentioned earlier, the manual transmission is available on select trim levels of the Ford Ranger:
- XL: The base trim level offers the manual transmission as a standard feature.
- XLT: The mid-level trim level also offers the manual transmission as an option.
Other Transmission Options in the Ford Ranger
In addition to the manual transmission, the Ford Ranger is available with several other transmission options:
- 10-Speed Automatic Transmission: This transmission provides smooth and efficient gear changes, with a wide range of ratios for optimal performance in various driving conditions.
- 6-Speed Automatic Transmission: This transmission is available on older model years of the Ford Ranger and offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Takeaways: Embracing the Manual or Exploring Alternatives
The availability of a manual transmission in the Ford Ranger provides drivers with a choice between enhanced control and convenience. While manual transmissions offer certain advantages, it is important to weigh the drawbacks and consider the availability of other transmission options. Ultimately, the best transmission choice depends on individual preferences, driving habits, and the specific requirements of your adventures or work tasks.
