2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4: A Rugged Review

by Admin 42 views
2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4: A Rugged Review

Hey there, gearheads and truck enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4, a mid-size pickup that's been making waves for its blend of capability, comfort, and affordability. I've spent some quality time with this bad boy, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on everything from its off-road prowess to its everyday practicality. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes the Ranger XLT FX4 a compelling choice in a crowded truck market. We'll examine its design, performance, features, and overall value proposition. Get ready to find out if this truck is the right fit for your adventures, whether you're tackling trails or cruising through city streets. Ready? Let's roll!

Exterior and Design

Alright, let's start with the look, shall we? The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 boasts a tough and rugged exterior that immediately grabs your attention. It's a mid-size truck, which means it strikes a great balance between maneuverability and cargo capacity. The FX4 package adds some serious visual cues to its off-road capabilities. You'll notice the distinctive FX4 badging, which signals that this truck is ready to handle some serious terrain. The design is all about functionality. From its high ground clearance to its sturdy steel frame, every element is geared toward performance and durability.

Looking at the front, you'll be greeted by a bold grille and sharp headlights that give the Ranger a commanding presence on the road. The body lines are clean and purposeful, with a muscular stance that hints at its power. The XLT trim brings some nice touches, like alloy wheels and chrome accents, that elevate the overall look. The bed is practical, with a durable liner designed to withstand the rigors of hauling gear, construction materials, or whatever you need to throw in it. The tailgate is designed to be easy to operate. I really appreciated the attention to detail in the overall design, which makes it feel both modern and capable. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a daily driver, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 looks the part. It's a truck that's built to work and play, and its design reflects that. It looks good from every angle, ready to tackle any adventure you throw its way. Overall, the exterior design is well-executed, successfully combining style and functionality. Ford did a great job of making the Ranger XLT FX4 look both tough and appealing.

Performance and Capability

Now, let's get into the heart of the matter: performance. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is powered by a stout 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, and it delivers a punch. This engine cranks out a solid 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, which makes the most of the engine's power. It gives you smooth and efficient gear changes, whether you are accelerating on the highway or crawling over rocks on a trail.

But the real magic happens when you engage the FX4 package. This includes features like a rugged off-road suspension, skid plates to protect the undercarriage from damage, and an electronic locking rear differential. These features turn the Ranger XLT FX4 into a capable off-roader. It's ready to tackle tough terrain. The FX4 package also includes a terrain management system with different drive modes. These drive modes help to optimize performance based on the conditions. You can choose from modes like Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, and Mud/Ruts. Each mode adjusts the engine, transmission, and traction control settings to enhance performance in that particular environment. During my testing, the Ranger XLT FX4 handled everything I threw at it with ease. From rocky trails to muddy paths, this truck never missed a beat. The combination of the powerful engine, the responsive transmission, and the FX4 features makes for a thrilling driving experience. The Ranger XLT FX4 is a true all-rounder, performing admirably both on and off the road. It offers the perfect blend of power, capability, and versatility, making it a great choice for adventurers and everyday drivers alike. Ford has crafted a truck that's not only capable but also enjoyable to drive.

Interior and Technology

Let's head inside and check out the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4's interior. The XLT trim offers a comfortable and functional cabin that's designed to make your ride enjoyable. You'll find a well-laid-out dashboard, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of head and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The materials are durable and well-chosen, and the overall fit and finish are impressive. It feels like a truck built to handle daily use.

The infotainment system is a key highlight, featuring Ford's user-friendly SYNC 3 system. It's intuitive, with a responsive touchscreen and seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You can easily connect your phone for navigation, music, and other apps. Other tech features include a premium sound system, which enhances your music experience while you're driving. The Ranger XLT FX4 also comes with a suite of driver-assistance technologies, such as lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring. These features add an extra layer of safety and convenience to your daily drives. The interior of the Ranger XLT FX4 offers the perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and technology. It's a place where you'll enjoy spending time, whether you're on a long road trip or just running errands around town. The cabin is well-designed, offering a comfortable and user-friendly experience for both the driver and passengers. Ford did a great job of creating an interior that's both practical and enjoyable.

Trim Levels and Features

Alright, let's break down the trim levels and features of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4. The XLT is a mid-level trim that offers a great balance of features and value. It sits above the base XL trim and below the range-topping Lariat. The XLT trim comes standard with a range of features, including alloy wheels, a chrome grille, and a power-locking tailgate. Inside, you'll find an upgraded infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The XLT also includes features like dual-zone climate control, which allows you to set different temperatures for the driver and passenger sides.

The FX4 package, which we've been discussing, adds a host of off-road-oriented features. These include an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, off-road suspension, and a terrain management system. These features make the Ranger XLT FX4 a very capable off-roader. You can customize your Ranger with a variety of optional features. These include things like a bed liner, a tow package, and a premium sound system. When choosing your Ranger, consider your needs and preferences. Think about how you plan to use your truck. If you're looking for a truck that's ready for off-road adventures, then the FX4 package is a must-have. If you're looking for a truck that's comfortable and well-equipped, the XLT trim is a great choice. Ford offers a range of options to fit your needs. The 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is a versatile truck, and it's easy to customize it to meet your specific needs. From its base features to its optional packages, it provides a tailored experience. Overall, Ford offers a range of options, allowing you to build the perfect truck for your lifestyle.

Driving Experience

Let's talk about the driving experience of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4. On the road, the Ranger XLT FX4 feels composed and comfortable. The ride is smooth, even on rough roads, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The steering is responsive, making the truck easy to maneuver in both city streets and on the highway. The EcoBoost engine provides plenty of power for everyday driving. You'll have no problem merging onto the highway or passing other vehicles. The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth and efficient. It delivers quick and seamless gear changes. You'll barely notice the shifts.

Off-road, the Ranger XLT FX4 truly shines. The FX4 package adds a range of features that enhance its off-road capabilities. The electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and off-road suspension, make this truck capable of handling difficult terrains. The terrain management system allows you to select the appropriate drive mode for the conditions. This optimizes the engine, transmission, and traction control settings. The Ranger XLT FX4 handles everything I threw at it with ease. Whether navigating rocky trails or muddy paths, this truck is ready. The driving experience of the Ranger XLT FX4 is a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. It's a versatile truck that's enjoyable to drive in a variety of conditions. Ford has done an excellent job of creating a truck that's both fun and functional. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors, you're sure to enjoy the driving experience of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4. Overall, the driving experience is very satisfying. The truck performs as expected. It is a great choice for both daily driving and weekend adventures.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's sum it all up with a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4:

Pros:

  • Strong Performance: The EcoBoost engine offers ample power and torque, delivering impressive acceleration and towing capabilities. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently.
  • Off-Road Capability: The FX4 package transforms the Ranger into a capable off-roader. It offers features like an electronic locking rear differential, skid plates, and a terrain management system.
  • Comfortable Interior: The XLT trim provides a comfortable and well-appointed cabin. It includes features like a user-friendly infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, and supportive seats.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The SYNC 3 infotainment system is intuitive and offers seamless smartphone integration. Driver-assistance technologies like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring add to the convenience and safety.
  • Versatile: The Ranger XLT FX4 is a versatile truck, suitable for both daily driving and weekend adventures. It offers a good balance of capability, comfort, and practicality.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy could be better compared to some competitors.
  • Ride Quality: The ride can be a bit firm on rough roads. It's due to the off-road suspension, which prioritizes capability.
  • Price: The price can increase when you add the FX4 package and other optional features. It puts it into a higher price range.

Conclusion

So, what's the verdict on the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4? Overall, it's a solid choice in the mid-size truck segment. It successfully combines capability, comfort, and practicality. It's a great option for those who want a truck that can handle both daily commutes and off-road adventures. The powerful engine, responsive transmission, and capable FX4 package make it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions. The comfortable interior and user-friendly technology add to the overall appeal. While it has a few drawbacks, such as fuel economy and price, the Ranger XLT FX4 offers a great value proposition. If you're in the market for a mid-size truck that can do it all, the 2022 Ford Ranger XLT FX4 is definitely worth a look. It is a versatile and capable truck that will satisfy the needs of many truck buyers. I hope this review has been helpful. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask! Happy trucking!