The 2009 Ford Ranger receives almost no changes for the new model year, though it does lose one of the previously available engine sizes. The Ranger is a compact pickup truck designed to compete with vehicles such as the Toyota Tacoma, the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota. The Ranger is available in two different cab sizes, regular and SuperCab models. The Ranger is also available in four different trim levels, as well as 6 and 7-foot bed lengths.

The Ranger is also available with a choice of two different engines. These are a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder offering 143 hp, or a 4.0-liter V6, providing 207 hp. The discontinued engine series was a 3.0-liter V6 offering 148 hp. Both engines are available with an automatic transmission or with a manual transmission. In addition, the 4-wheel drive model offers a low gear for off-road use, but it cannot be left on when driving on dry roadways.

The Ranger offers few safety enhancements and no side airbags are found on any trim level. However, ABS is standard on all trim levels and towing is limited to 5980 lbs, making this a versatile compact truck that offers value and moderate performance.

2009 Ford Ranger Performance

The Ranger offers plenty of pickup off the starting line, especially with the V6 engine. The 4-cylinder is somewhat slower, though still pretty quick to get going. The engine is well paired with either transmission option. The manual shifts smoothly between gears, while the automatic transmission offers plenty of torque and performance.

The ...

Ranger suffers from low fuel economy. The vehicle only averages 20 mpg, though it can be lower if large amounts of in-city driving are the norm. In addition, the Ranger offers a decent steering feel that seems well connected with the road. The ride quality does not suffer quite as much as other trucks do over large bumps and even the 4x4 option enjoys a surprisingly smooth ride on all surfaces.

The Ranger offers a quiet ride with very little wind noise, though it is not as quiet as the class leaders. Road noise is noticeable, but not overly distracting and the cabin remains comfortable and quiet even on rough pavement. Very little nose dive is noticed and body lean is very minimal, even during hard turns, making it a competent handling vehicle on almost any driving surface.

2009 Ford Ranger Interior

The Ford Ranger features an interior marked by quality plastics and fabric, as well as a comfortable design. The plastics used are sufficiently textured and of high enough quality to avoid the "cheap" feel that marks many other vehicles in the class. While not luxury quality, the interior is comfortable and surprisingly spacious.

The controls are laid out nicely in all areas. The central gauge cluster gives immediate access to vital information for the driver, and all gauges are easy to read in almost any lighting conditions. The HVAC and audio controls are likewise easily reached from the driver's position and are sufficiently illuminated during dim light levels.

The front seats offer excellent headroom, legroom and knee room for even the tallest drivers. The seats are comfortable enough for long rides, with sufficient side bolsters and thigh support for all riders and drivers. The view from the front is unobstructed by front or rear roof pillars and offers a clear view of the areas around the vehicle.

The rear seats (SuperCab) are very small, though not as small as some others in the class are. The seats are large enough to accommodate adults for very short durations, but are better utilized by children or cargo on a regular basis. The number of bed configurations allows owners to have tremendous cargo space in the bed of the truck and the rear seats can easily double as additional cargo room.

2009 Ford Ranger Safety Features

The 2009 Ford Ranger offers a few safety features, though not as many as other options within the class. All trim levels feature dual front airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system and antilock brakes. An antitheft system is the only other safety feature offered on the Ranger, with no optional equipment available at any trim level.

Summary

The Ford Ranger has long been a mainstay of the compact truck market and the 2009 Ranger continues the same trend. While the Ranger does offer ample acceleration, ample cargo room and a decent ride, it is by no means the best in class. However, the Ranger is an excellent choice for the price.