drove a 2020 ranger lariat ecoboost 2.3l......

The last review of the ranger I read (from memory): "Not quite as well mannered as a Ridgeline, but also not nearly as truck-like as the ancient Tacoma, it seems to be the best of both worlds..."

I get it. I like truck-like because truck-like is more fun to drive, at least to me. But I get that the general public at large really wants a minivan without the stigma of being caught in a minivan. And if the Ranger handles like a minivan while still being a BOF truck, it will most definitely sell.

In all honesty, I like the Ranger and would seriously consider one if it werent for the crazy tall belt line on that thing. Now, I'm a tall guy, but if the bedrails come up to my armpits then something is proportionally amiss. I'm mad enough that I cant reach objects that are centered in a stock Tacoma. I dont want to carry a stepladder just to unload firewood.

 

It is nice on road, but you are right about the bed rails. It’s a bit ridiculous. Interior seems cheap, but I can only compare that to my TRDOR when I had it. Lots of dash rattles in short mileage, though it may be do to the hot AZ sun. Room for refinement just like the Toyota. Hopefully they both knock it out of the park with their planned changes.

 

1.5 years of ranger ownership here( traded a 2.7 sr for it) still running fine with 17500 miles . I loved my Tacoma but needed the crew cab so test drove both. Ford drove better. And seating position was the deal maker .

 

A buddy recently got one and put the Livernois tune on it.

Impressive. Scratches rubber through the first 3 gears and pretty insane passing power.

 

THIS is a Rampage. I don't know what that abomination you posted is.