2022 Ford Ranger XLT Review: Is It Still A Top Truck?

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT. This mid-size pickup truck has been a popular choice for years, but does it still hold up against the competition? We'll cover everything from its performance and features to its overall value proposition. So, grab a coffee, and let's get started!

Unpacking the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: What's New and Noteworthy?

First off, let's talk about what makes the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT tick. The XLT is a step up from the base model, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and capability that appeals to a wide range of truck buyers. This trim level usually hits that sweet spot, offering a good balance of features without breaking the bank. The 2022 model year saw some minor updates and refinements to the Ranger lineup, but the core formula remains the same: a rugged, reliable, and versatile pickup ready for work and play. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, which is a turbocharged four-cylinder that's surprisingly powerful. It’s paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. You'll likely notice the engine's responsiveness when you hit the accelerator, making it feel quicker than you might expect for a mid-size truck. One of the key strengths of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is its ability to handle various tasks. It’s got a decent payload capacity, so you can haul building materials, camping gear, or whatever else you need for your weekend adventures. Plus, the towing capacity is respectable, making it suitable for pulling small trailers, boats, or ATVs. Inside the cabin, the XLT trim offers a comfortable and user-friendly experience. You'll find cloth upholstery, which is durable and easy to maintain. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, which you can use for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The XLT also comes with a range of standard features, such as advanced driver-assistance systems, like a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving a bit easier, especially when navigating crowded streets or parking in tight spaces. Exterior-wise, the 2022 Ranger XLT has a bold, modern design that is instantly recognizable on the road. The XLT trim typically includes upgraded wheels, body-colored bumpers, and other cosmetic enhancements that give it a more polished look than the base models. The overall package is designed to be tough, capable, and practical, making the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT a strong contender in the mid-size pickup market. It's a truck that can comfortably transition from the worksite to a family weekend getaway without missing a beat. The combination of the EcoBoost engine, the 10-speed transmission, and the XLT's well-equipped interior, create a compelling package for anyone needing a mid-size pickup. For those looking for a practical, versatile, and dependable truck, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is definitely worth considering. It provides a good balance of features, performance, and value, which makes it a smart choice for many truck buyers.

Driving the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT: Performance and Handling

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: how does the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT actually perform on the road? The heart of this truck is its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, pumping out a respectable amount of horsepower and torque. This turbocharged four-cylinder might not sound like much, but it delivers a surprising amount of grunt, making the Ranger feel peppy and responsive, especially when you're accelerating from a stop or merging onto the highway. The 10-speed automatic transmission is a real gem, providing smooth and well-timed shifts. It helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, contributing to both performance and fuel efficiency. You'll find that the transmission is quick to downshift when you need extra power for passing or climbing hills. The Ranger XLT offers a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections, providing a pleasant driving experience. The steering is nicely weighted, giving you a good feel for the road without being overly heavy. Maneuvering in parking lots and tight spaces is relatively easy for a truck of its size. When it comes to off-road capability, the Ranger XLT is no slouch. While it's not a dedicated off-road machine like the Raptor, it's still capable of handling moderate trails and rough terrain. The four-wheel-drive system (available as an option) provides excellent traction in slippery conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow, ice, or muddy roads. The Ranger XLT boasts a solid towing capacity, making it suitable for hauling small trailers, boats, or other recreational equipment. The engine's torque comes into play here, providing the necessary power to pull heavy loads. The braking system is responsive and effective, providing confident stopping power in various driving situations. Overall, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT delivers a balanced driving experience. It's powerful enough to handle everyday driving tasks, comfortable enough for long trips, and capable enough to tackle some off-road adventures. It's a versatile truck that can serve as a daily driver, a work truck, or a weekend adventure vehicle. The engine's responsiveness, the smooth transmission, and the comfortable ride make it a pleasure to drive, while the available four-wheel-drive system adds to its versatility. If you're looking for a mid-size pickup that can handle a variety of tasks, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is certainly worth a test drive.

Interior and Technology: What to Expect Inside the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

Let's step inside the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT and see what it offers in terms of interior comfort, technology, and convenience. The XLT trim typically provides a step up in features compared to the base model, giving you a more comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Inside the cabin, you'll find comfortable cloth upholstery that is both durable and easy to maintain. The seats are supportive, and provide good comfort, even on longer drives. The layout is user-friendly, with controls that are easy to reach and understand. The dashboard design is clean and functional, with an emphasis on practicality. The infotainment system is a key feature of the Ranger XLT. It includes a touchscreen display that gives access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The system is responsive and easy to use, with intuitive menus and controls. You can also connect your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which allows you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts hands-free. The XLT trim also comes with a range of advanced driver-assistance systems. These include features like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist, which help enhance safety and make driving a bit easier. These features can be especially helpful when navigating busy streets or parking in tight spaces. You'll also find a decent amount of storage space in the cabin. There are various compartments and cupholders to keep your belongings organized and within reach. The rear seats offer decent legroom, making it comfortable for passengers, even on longer trips. The overall quality of the interior materials is good, with a focus on durability and practicality. The XLT trim strikes a good balance between comfort, convenience, and value. The combination of cloth upholstery, a user-friendly infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance features makes the Ranger XLT a pleasant place to spend time. The thoughtful design, the practical layout, and the comfortable seating make it suitable for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The inclusion of modern technology and safety features adds to the truck's appeal, making it a well-rounded package that caters to a wide range of drivers. With its comfortable seats, advanced technology, and practical features, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT offers a solid in-cabin experience that enhances both comfort and convenience.

Ford Ranger XLT 2022: Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Technology

Safety is a top priority for any vehicle, and the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT comes equipped with a range of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Ford has integrated various driver-assistance technologies to enhance safety and make driving easier. Standard on the XLT trim, you'll find a rearview camera, which is a must-have for safe and confident reversing. It provides a clear view of what's behind you, making it easier to maneuver in parking lots and other tight spaces. Blind-spot monitoring is another important safety feature that's typically included. It alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, helping you avoid collisions when changing lanes. Lane-keeping assist is designed to help you stay within your lane. It monitors your position and provides gentle steering corrections if you start to drift out of your lane unintentionally. Adaptive cruise control (often available as an option) maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you. It automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance, which is particularly useful on highways. The Ranger XLT also includes a comprehensive airbag system, providing protection in the event of a collision. These airbags are strategically placed throughout the cabin to cushion occupants from impact. The truck's sturdy construction and crash test ratings contribute to its overall safety profile. The Ranger has been designed to meet or exceed government safety standards, providing peace of mind to drivers and passengers. The overall safety package of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is designed to provide protection in various driving situations. The combination of advanced driver-assistance technologies, a robust airbag system, and solid construction make it a safe and dependable choice for truck buyers. These safety features not only protect you in the event of a collision but also help prevent accidents in the first place, making the Ranger XLT a safer vehicle for everyone on the road. The focus on safety is a testament to Ford's commitment to providing reliable and secure vehicles, offering drivers confidence and peace of mind on the road.

Ford Ranger XLT 2022: Trim Levels, Pricing, and Value Proposition

Let's break down the trim levels, pricing, and overall value of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT. The XLT is positioned as a mid-range trim, offering a balance of features and affordability. Ford typically offers a range of trims for the Ranger, starting with a base model and progressing up to more luxurious options. The XLT generally sits in the middle, providing a good blend of comfort, convenience, and capability without the higher price tag of the top-tier trims. Pricing for the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT will vary depending on the configuration and options, but it’s generally positioned competitively within the mid-size pickup truck market. You can expect to pay a bit more for features like four-wheel drive or optional packages. When it comes to the value proposition, the Ranger XLT shines. It offers a lot of truck for the money. The combination of its powerful EcoBoost engine, comfortable interior, and standard features makes it a smart choice for many truck buyers. The XLT provides a good balance between work-ready capabilities and everyday usability. It's a truck that can handle the demands of work, while still being comfortable and convenient for daily driving. When compared to its competitors, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT often holds its own. It's priced competitively and offers a similar level of features and performance to other mid-size trucks. The resale value of the Ranger is typically strong, which is another factor that contributes to its overall value. When considering the price, the features, the performance, and the resale value, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT offers a compelling value proposition. It's a versatile, capable, and well-equipped truck that delivers a lot for your money. If you're looking for a mid-size pickup that offers a great balance of features, performance, and value, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a solid choice. It's a smart investment that should provide years of reliable service and enjoyment. It’s a practical, capable truck that fits many needs without breaking the bank. The value the Ranger XLT provides makes it a popular choice for truck buyers.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT

Alright, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT to help you decide if it's the right truck for you:

Pros:

• Powerful Engine: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine provides plenty of power and responsiveness.
• Smooth Transmission: The 10-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and well-timed shifts.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps, providing a comfortable driving experience.
• User-Friendly Interior: The cabin is well-designed with easy-to-use controls and a functional layout.
• Infotainment System: The touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Safety Features: The XLT trim includes important safety features like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
• Good Value: The Ranger XLT offers a good balance of features, performance, and affordability.
• Versatile: The truck can handle both work tasks and daily driving, as well as weekend adventures.

Cons:

• Fuel Economy: While the EcoBoost engine is efficient for a truck, fuel economy could still be better compared to some competitors.
• Some Hard Plastics: The interior uses some hard plastics in certain areas, which can detract from the overall feel.
• Optional Features: Some desirable features, like advanced driver-assistance systems, may be optional and could increase the price.
• Ride May Be Bouncy: Some might find the ride to be a bit bouncy, especially when unloaded.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT Worth Buying?

So, after a thorough review, is the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT worth buying? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you're looking for a versatile, capable, and well-equipped mid-size pickup truck. The Ranger XLT strikes an excellent balance between performance, features, and value. The EcoBoost engine provides ample power, while the 10-speed transmission offers smooth and efficient shifting. The interior is comfortable and user-friendly, with a modern infotainment system and a host of safety features. The XLT trim offers a good level of standard equipment without the premium price tag. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT is a great choice for those who need a truck that can handle both work and play. Whether you need to haul building materials, tow a trailer, or just commute to work, the Ranger XLT can do it all. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, as it's capable of handling moderate off-road trails. With its competitive pricing, strong resale value, and overall reliability, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT represents a smart investment for anyone in the market for a mid-size pickup. It is a well-rounded truck that delivers on its promises. If you value a truck that's powerful, comfortable, safe, and versatile, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT should be at the top of your list.

Thanks for tuning in! Hope you found this review helpful. Happy truck hunting!