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2023 Ford Ranger Vs Explorer: Which Should You Choose? The Ultimate Suv Showdown

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • In terms of towing and payload capacity, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,860 lbs, while the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,500 lbs.
  • The Ford Ranger offers an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, while the Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway.
  • The Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, while the Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway.

In the world of pickup trucks and SUVs, the Ford Ranger and Explorer stand as two of the most iconic and capable vehicles on the market. Both offer a unique blend of power, performance, and versatility, making them ideal for a wide range of drivers and lifestyles. But how do these two vehicles compare side-by-side? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Ford Ranger and Explorer, helping you make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for your needs.

Performance and Power:

The Ford Ranger and Explorer offer distinct performance capabilities. The Ranger is powered by a 2.3L EcoBoost engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the Explorer boasts a 3.0L EcoBoost engine that generates 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. In terms of towing and payload capacity, the Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,860 lbs, while the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,500 lbs.

Fuel Efficiency:

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for many drivers. The Ford Ranger offers an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, while the Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. However, it’s important to note that these estimates can vary depending on driving conditions and personal driving habits.

Interior and Comfort:

The Ford Ranger and Explorer offer spacious and comfortable interiors. The Ranger provides seating for up to five passengers, while the Explorer can accommodate up to seven passengers. Both vehicles offer a range of features to enhance comfort, including heated and cooled seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.

Technology and Safety:

The Ford Ranger and Explorer are equipped with a suite of advanced technology and safety features. Both vehicles come standard with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a variety of driver assistance technologies, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Capabilities:

For those who enjoy venturing off the beaten path, the Ford Ranger and Explorer offer impressive off-road capabilities. The Ranger features a Terrain Management System with four selectable drive modes, while the Explorer offers an Intelligent 4WD system with seven selectable drive modes. Both vehicles come with a robust suspension system and ample ground clearance to tackle challenging terrains.

Price and Value:

The Ford Ranger has a starting price of $25,370, while the Explorer starts at $33,225. The price can vary depending on the trim level, options, and additional features.

Wrapping Up:

The Ford Ranger and Explorer are both excellent choices for drivers seeking a capable and versatile vehicle. The Ranger offers impressive performance, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those who need a truck for work or play. On the other hand, the Explorer provides more interior space, comfort, and technology, making it a great option for families and those who need a vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Ultimately, the best choice between the Ford Ranger and Explorer depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which vehicle has better towing and payload capacity?

A: The Ford Ranger has a higher towing and payload capacity compared to the Explorer. The Ranger can tow up to 7,500 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,860 lbs, while the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,500 lbs.

Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency?

A: The Ford Ranger has slightly better fuel efficiency compared to the Explorer. The Ranger gets an EPA-estimated 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, while the Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?

A: The Ford Explorer has a more spacious interior compared to the Ranger. The Explorer can accommodate up to seven passengers, while the Ranger can seat up to five passengers.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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