2022 Ford Ranger XLT Review: Is It Right For You?

by SLV Team 50 views
2022 Ford Ranger XLT Review: Is It Right For You?

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT. If you're in the market for a mid-size pickup truck, this review is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know. We'll be breaking down the good, the bad, and everything in between, so you can decide if the Ranger XLT is the right truck for your needs. We'll cover its performance, features, interior, and overall value. Buckle up, guys, because it's time to get down to business!

What's New for 2022? Ford Ranger XLT

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly touch on what's new for the 2022 model year. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT receives some minor updates, mainly focusing on available packages and trim options. While it doesn't represent a complete redesign, these tweaks help keep the Ranger competitive in a fiercely contested segment. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT also sees some updates to its exterior styling, including new wheel designs and color options. These updates give the truck a fresh look and make it even more appealing to buyers. Overall, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT maintains the same core strengths that have made it a popular choice. Ford has made some small but significant improvements to the truck, ensuring it remains a strong contender in the mid-size pickup truck market. The Ranger XLT remains a great choice for those seeking a practical and capable truck. It offers a blend of features, performance, and value that's hard to beat. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a solid choice for those seeking a mid-size pickup truck that balances work capabilities with everyday usability. So, keep reading, and let's delve into what makes the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT a worthy consideration for your next vehicle purchase.

Now, let’s dig into the details and find out if it's the truck for you. From its engine options to its interior comforts and technology, we're going to cover everything. This helps you get a well-rounded understanding. Ready to see if the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is your next ride?

Performance and Capability of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

Okay, let's talk about what makes a truck a truck: performance and capability! The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT packs a punch under the hood, with a single engine option that delivers both power and efficiency. The heart of the Ranger XLT is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and responsive shifts. Guys, this combo is no slouch! The engine generates a robust 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That's plenty of grunt to handle daily driving, towing, and off-road adventures. Speaking of towing, the Ranger XLT boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds when properly equipped. That's enough to haul a boat, a camper, or whatever else you need to bring along for the ride. The Ranger XLT also offers impressive payload capacity, which is the amount of weight it can carry in the bed. Depending on the configuration, the payload capacity can exceed 1,500 pounds. This makes it a capable work truck. Ford offers the Ranger XLT in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. The 4WD system is particularly useful for those who frequently encounter off-road conditions or adverse weather. The 4WD system includes a shift-on-the-fly feature, allowing you to switch between 2WD and 4WD with ease. It gives you the flexibility to adapt to changing road conditions. So, whether you're navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, the Ranger XLT has you covered. The engine provides enough power for most tasks, and the transmission ensures smooth and efficient performance. When it comes to capability, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a strong contender in its class. With its impressive towing and payload capacities, the Ranger XLT is a versatile choice for both work and play. The EcoBoost engine delivers plenty of power. When you add the option of 4WD, it makes it a seriously capable truck. From daily commutes to weekend adventures, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is ready to take on whatever you throw its way. Overall, its performance and capability make it a great choice.

Interior and Features of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

Let’s move inside, shall we? The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT has a functional and well-equipped interior that strikes a balance between comfort and practicality. You won't find a super-luxurious cabin here, but the materials are durable and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. It's a truck that's meant to be used. The XLT trim comes standard with a decent array of features, making it a good value for the money. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The layout is user-friendly. It is easy to find the controls you need. The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen display. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. You can access navigation, music, and other apps. The Ranger XLT also includes a variety of tech and convenience features. Standard features include a rearview camera, which is super helpful for parking and maneuvering. There are also driver-assistance features like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring. These features add an extra layer of safety. Other notable features in the XLT trim include: dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. These features enhance both comfort and convenience. The interior design is straightforward, with a focus on functionality. There are plenty of storage compartments and cubbies to keep your belongings organized. The layout is intuitive, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The infotainment system is responsive and user-friendly. It provides quick access to your favorite apps and features. The materials used throughout the cabin are of good quality, and the overall fit and finish is impressive for a truck in this class. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a well-rounded package that delivers a comfortable and functional interior with a solid feature set. It offers a good balance of comfort, convenience, and technology, making it a pleasant place to spend time. If you're looking for a truck that's both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Ranger XLT is worth a look.

Driving Experience and Handling of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

How does the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT handle on the road? The driving experience is one of its strengths, guys! The Ranger XLT offers a comfortable and composed ride, even on rough roads. The suspension is well-tuned, absorbing bumps and imperfections with ease. This makes it a pleasant daily driver. The steering is responsive and precise, providing good feedback and control. The Ranger XLT handles corners with confidence, thanks to its well-balanced chassis. It doesn’t feel like a boat, even though it's a truck. The EcoBoost engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently. This keeps the engine in its optimal power band. The available four-wheel-drive system enhances the driving experience, especially in challenging conditions. It provides extra traction and stability, whether you're driving on snow, ice, or loose gravel. The Ranger XLT feels planted and confident on a variety of surfaces. The Ranger XLT also offers a decent amount of sound insulation. This helps to keep road noise and wind noise to a minimum. This enhances the overall driving experience. The driver-assistance features, such as lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, add to the safety and convenience. They make driving easier and reduce the risk of accidents. The Ranger XLT is a surprisingly agile and enjoyable truck to drive. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and the handling is responsive. The powerful engine and smooth transmission contribute to an overall positive driving experience. Whether you're commuting to work or tackling off-road trails, the Ranger XLT is a capable and versatile truck. It combines a comfortable ride with a responsive driving experience. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT excels in this area, offering a driving experience that's both practical and fun. It's a truck that's enjoyable to drive every day.

Trim Levels and Options for the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a trim level in the Ranger lineup. It gives you a great balance of features and value. But, it's worth taking a look at the other options to see how it fits in. The Ranger lineup typically includes base XL, mid-level XLT, and top-tier Lariat trims. The XLT sits right in the middle, offering a sweet spot for many buyers. It provides a good mix of features without breaking the bank. Standard Features: The XLT typically includes features like an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and driver-assistance technologies. This includes things like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring. Optional Packages: Ford often offers packages that let you customize your Ranger XLT. These packages can add features like off-road upgrades, enhanced towing capabilities, or premium interior appointments. For example, there is an FX4 Off-Road package, adding features like an electronic locking rear differential, off-road shocks, and skid plates. This is for those who are serious about hitting the trails. Configurations: The Ranger XLT is typically available in SuperCab (extended cab) and SuperCrew (four-door) configurations. The SuperCrew offers more space in the back seat. This makes it ideal for families or those who frequently carry passengers. Color Options: Ford usually offers a wide range of exterior colors for the Ranger XLT. This allows you to pick a truck that matches your style. The options and packages offered can change slightly from year to year. Make sure to check the latest details from Ford or your local dealership. The XLT trim gives you a solid foundation of features, while the available options and packages allow you to tailor the truck to your specific needs. From work to weekend adventures, the XLT offers flexibility. If you are looking for a balance of features, performance, and value, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a great choice!

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

Alright, let’s break down the good and the bad of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT. This is crucial for making a well-informed decision. We're going to give you the straight facts, guys! We'll show you the pros and cons to help you make the best choice.

Pros:

  • Punchy Engine: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is powerful and efficient, providing ample performance for various driving scenarios. The 10-speed transmission makes the most of the engine's power.
  • Good Towing and Payload: The Ranger XLT has a respectable towing capacity. It can handle a variety of trailers, campers, and equipment. The payload capacity is also competitive.
  • User-Friendly Interior: The interior design is functional, with an intuitive layout and easy-to-use controls. This leads to a stress-free driving experience.
  • Infotainment and Tech: The 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, offering seamless smartphone integration. You can easily access navigation, music, and other apps.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension setup provides a comfortable and composed ride, even on rough roads. It's great for daily driving.
  • Available 4WD: The four-wheel-drive system enhances the truck's capabilities in challenging conditions. It provides extra traction and stability.

Cons:

  • Base Interior Materials: While the interior is functional, some materials might feel a bit basic. This is expected in a mid-size truck. You could find more premium materials in higher-end trims.
  • Limited Engine Options: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost is the only engine offered. While it's powerful, some might prefer the option of a diesel or a V6.
  • Fuel Economy: While the EcoBoost is efficient, it's not the most fuel-efficient truck in its class. Other competitors may offer slightly better gas mileage.
  • Price: Depending on the options, the XLT can get expensive. Be sure to consider your budget and needs. Other competitors may offer lower base prices.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT Worth Buying?

So, after all of that, is the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT worth your hard-earned money? The answer depends on your specific needs and priorities, guys. However, the Ranger XLT is a solid choice. It's a well-rounded mid-size pickup truck. It delivers a good balance of performance, capability, and features. The XLT trim strikes a sweet spot. It offers a good array of standard features, including the user-friendly infotainment system. The engine is punchy, and the towing and payload capacities are competitive for the class. The comfortable ride and available four-wheel drive make it a great daily driver. It is also suitable for weekend adventures. If you need a capable truck for work and play, the Ranger XLT should be on your list. If you prioritize luxury or are looking for the absolute best fuel economy, you might want to consider other options. But for a practical, versatile, and well-equipped truck, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a strong contender. Check out the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT. Decide if it meets your needs. Take a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. Overall, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT delivers excellent value in the mid-size truck market. So, go check it out, and happy truck hunting! Remember to always do your research and compare it with other trucks in its class before making a final decision. I hope this review has been helpful!