2008 Ford Ranger [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 26 Ranger reviews and test drives.
Ford Ranger - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Ford Ranger ranks 6 out of 7 Compact Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 26 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Ranger, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Ranger offers a traditional rugged ride and good off-road capability on a budget, but ranks at the bottom of the compact pickup class because it can't match the refined performance, interior quality or safety features of its competitors.
The 2008 Ford Ranger only gets a mediocre overall rating in the compact pickup class. According to our analysis, it's an affordable option that's useful for off-roading and light hauling or towing, but its ride is too truck-like and stiff to appeal to many modern truck drivers. Automobile Magazine concludes: "When driven after any newer offering, it quickly becomes obvious that the Ranger dates back to a time before pickups migrated toward the mainstream; today, buyers are looking for more carlike handling, comfortable ride, four full-size doors, and quiet engines. The Ranger offers none of these attributes." In addition, many feel the Ranger is too small to carry more than two people comfortably, and even with three engine choices, the lack of an available V8 undermines towing capacity.
The 2008 model, a carryover from a 1998 redesign and 2006 refresh, represents the fourth generation of the aging truck, which debuted in 1983. Changes for this model include a more-aerodynamic front bumper, but generally the Ranger carries over from the previous model year. The Ranger comes in six trims -- XL, STX, XLT, Sport, FX4 Off-Road and FX4 Level II -- with a choice of three engines, two cab sizes (Regular Cab and Super Cab) and two bed sizes. If you're in the market for a compact pickup truck, also consider the Toyota Tacoma. Also consider the highly ranked Dodge Dakota if you prefer an American manufacturer.
- Writing of the Ranger and the similar Mazda B-Series, Car and Driver notes, "The Ranger and Mazda B-series offer only modest power and load carrying, but if affordability is the prime concern they're worth a look." -- Car and Driver
- "It will haul your junk to the dump, or your gardening supplies to the backyard. And generally speaking, it'll do it for a moderate price." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- "As a work truck, the Ford Ranger offers serious truck capability at affordable prices." -- New Car Test Drive
Ranger Performance - 5.7 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Ford Ranger's mediocre road performance trails its class. Though it offers three engine choices, none of them receive the majority's praise, and many are disappointed that there is no V8 engine. Check out our full Performance Review to find out how the Ranger does hauling and towing. continue
Ranger Exterior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Despite recently refreshing its exterior, Ford's Ranger is still at the bottom of its class for styling. Although Automobile Magazine specifically notes an "aggressive grille that recalls the tougher, full-size F-150 and F-250 Super Duty pickups," others claim the design is not up to snuff. Check out our Ford Ranger Photos to form your own opinion of the truck's grille and more, or continue with our full Exterior Review to learn more about the design differences between trims. continue
Ranger Interior - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Ranger gets a mediocre rating for interior because its cabin is relatively tight on space -- even fitting four passengers in the Super Cab is a squeeze. "Anyone seeking real comfort for four passengers should look at trucks with crew-cab or full-size extended-cab configurations," Automobile Magazine reports. Check out our Ford Ranger Photos to see the Ranger's cabin in black, or read our full Interior Review for more impressions of the available passenger room. continue
Ranger Safety - 7.6 (Good)
The 2008 Ford Ranger receives good safety scores in federal government crash tests. But writers are generally disappointed in the Ranger's meager safety equipment, both standard and optional, and report it pales in comparison to competitors. Our full Safety Review gives details on what's offered in the Ranger's Personal Safety System. continue
Ranger Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Ford Ranger reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Ford offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty for all its pickups. Our full Reliability Review provides more information on the Ranger's predicted reliability. continue